Homewood Supercentenarian Dies At 111, Village Honors 'Shining Example Of Resilience, Grace & Spirit'

HOMEWOOD, IL — Homewood's beloved supercentenarian has died at 111 years old, just a few months shy of reaching 112.

Longtime Homewood resident Mary Cantway died earlier this week, the Village of Homewood shared on social media.

"Mary moved to Homewood in 1957 and spent nearly seven decades as a cherished member of our community," the Village wrote. "During her remarkable 111 years, she witnessed incredible moments in history and the evolution of the world around her. Through it all, Mary remained a shining example of resilience, grace and spirit."

Cantway and her husband Elmo raised two children, Donald and Linda. At the time of turning 110 in 2024, they had six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Up until 2019, Cantway was a regular member at the H-F Racquet Club, where she swam frequently.

Mayor Richard Hofeld celebrated Cantway's 110th birthday—her supercentenarian year—alongside her, hand-delivering her a birthday cake.

"Mary is incredibly sharp! She is an absolute pleasure to talk to and Homewood is lucky to have her as our oldest resident," Hofeld said at the time. "She and I have had many conversations over the years and each time we visit I leave with a smile on my face!"

When asked what the secret was to a long, fulfilled life Cantway at the time giggled and said, "I went to exercise every day. I swam at the racquet club until I couldn’t anymore. I swam until I was around 105 years old. But, my doctor still makes me exercise with leg lifts."

Cantway charmed everyone with the fact she drank a Gatorade Zero every day—specifically the orange flavor—and that she enjoyed a good plate of ribs from Portillo's.

"The Village of Homewood extends its deepest condolences to the Cantway family and all who knew and loved her," the Village wrote. "We will always remember Mary's incredible spirit and the joy she brought to those around her.

"We are grateful for all the birthdays we celebrated with her and share the story of a woman whose longevity, warmth and spirit touched our community. Mary Cantway will always hold a special place in Homewood's history."

An obituary for Cantway was not immediately available Thursday afternoon.