Mary Hercules Obituary

Mary ("Grace") (Budzinski) Hercules, a resident of Florissant MO for more than 50 years, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, surrounded by her family that adored her. Grace was lovingly cared for by her family and staff in her home at Mason Pointe as well as Vitas Hospice. Grace was born on October 14, 1940, and was the daughter of the late Charles and Florence Budzinski.

Grace married Albert ("Red") Hercules on May 13, 1961, and together they had six children. Grace was preceded in death by her husband Albert.

Grace's unwavering faith served as her life-long compass. With a benevolent heart, she poured love into the lives of others, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and generosity. Her sense of humor was a gift she shared freely, bringing laughter and light to all who knew her. Grace enjoyed occasional trips to the casino, traveling, playing bingo and cards, but her greatest pleasure was spending time with her family. Grace had a way of making every holiday extra special with her own personal touch.

Grace was an amazing mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend to many. She worked as a tax preparer for H.R. Block, a receptionist at Renaissance Financial, and served as the Senior Citizen Coordinator for many years for the City of Florissant. There, she created numerous senior programs that still exist today. She took great pride in her work and loved making a difference for the seniors of Florissant.

Grace is survived by three sons and two daughters: Karen (Hercules) Doerr (Dennis), Mike (Julie), Jeff (Amy), Julie (Becky Stevenson), Tim (Rob Ridgeway) Hercules; and Mary Beth Hercules Mifflin (Steve), who was married to her late son, Tom. Her nine grandchildren include: Andrew, Michael, Jack, Maria and Max Hercules: Kate "Kat" (Doerr) Roller (Zac), Nick Doerr, Abigail (Hercules) Gianetti (Charlie) and Mady (Hercules) Ikenberry (Cliff). Grace had one great-granddaughter, A.J., and another great-grandchild on the way. Her son, Tom, preceded her in death.

Grace is also survived by her siblings Carol Farrar, Janet Linhoff (Bill, deceased), Jack Budzinski (Carol) and Charlie Budzinski (Lois). Her brother, Larry Budzinski, preceded her in death.

A celebration of life will take place on October 18, 2025, at St. Norbert Church, 16455 New Halls Ferry Road, Florissant, MO 63031. The family will receive visitors starting at 9:30 a.m. at St. Norbert Church, prior to the memorial mass, which will begin at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, located at 980 Graham Road. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ALS Association of St. Louis, St. Vincent DePaul Society @St. Norbert Church, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. To leave condolences, visit Hutchens Funeral Home https://www.hutchensfuneralhomes.com/.