Mary Lee Claise

Mary Lee Claise, 61, passed away on June 18, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville, Indiana.

She was born on March 21, 1965, to the late Charles “Bud” Sommer and Virginia “Genny” (Dawson) Kieser. Also preceding her in death were her stepfather, Ed Kieser; her brother, Charles “Billy” Sommer; and her sister-in-law, Margie Sommer.

Mary Lee was a graduate of Perry Central High School. She was employed as a supervisor at ATTC Manufacturing, where she was respected for her dedication, leadership, and strong work ethic.

She was united in marriage to Rick Claise on March 2, 1991. Together they shared 35 years of marriage filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories.

Above all else, Mary Lee treasured her family. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her children and grandchildren, whom she loved deeply and proudly doted on at every opportunity. A devoted wife, mother, and Mimi, she was happiest when surrounded by those she loved most.

Mary Lee was a member of the National Horseshoe Pitching Association and enjoyed participating in the sport. She also took great pride in raising her children and coaching youth softball, touching the lives of many young athletes along the way.

Mary Lee is survived by her husband, Rick Claise of Gatchel; her children, Eli Claise (Tori Smith) of Gatchel, Miranda (Bryce) Spalding of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Billy Claise (Jaedyn Knasel) of Gatchel; her siblings, Marsha (Jerry) Taylor and Maurice “Skipper” Kieser; her step-siblings, Rose Williams, Anna Neyenhaus, Mary Tindle (Ronnie Peter), and Kenny (Susie) Kieser; and her beloved grandchildren, Cooper, Carson, Jazmine, Hadlee, Kobie, Walker, Cohen, and Callahan, whose arrival she eagerly awaited.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Zoercher-Gillick Funeral Home with burial in Lilly Dale Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, and from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Condolences may be left at zoercher-gillickfuneralhome.com.

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