A Mass of Christian Burial for Mary Helen Hecht, age 86, of Jackson, will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday January 9th, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Jackson, MN with Father Dharma Pasala officiating. Burial will be at Good Shepherd Cemetery in Jackson.

A public rosary prayer will begin at 4:30 PM on Wednesday January 8th at the LaCanne Family Celebration of Life Center in Jackson following with a time of visitation from 5:00-7:00 PM. Visitation will continue Thursday for one hour prior to the service at the church.

Mary Helen Hecht passed away on Friday, January 3rd, 2025 at Sanford Jackson Medical Center in Jackson, MN.

Mary was born on January 23, 1938 to Louis and Genevieve Ambrose at the Halloran Hospital in Jackson, MN. She loved the farm life with her parents, and brother Jim. She loved to garden, sew, and help with the cooking. Mary married Robert Hecht on March 14, 1956 to which 7 children were born. Mary was the proud mother of those seven children, a role she cherished most in life. Her family was the heart of her world, and she took immense pride in the joy and love they brought into her life. Mary was also a faithful friend and family member. They all meant the world to her, sharing countless memories throughout her life. Did you know Mary was a bowling champion? Her family has many memories of those days! Mary and Robert also enjoyed many Florida trips, and music concerts together with beloved friends.

Mary dedicated much of her life to serving others through her remarkable skills as a cook. She lovingly prepared meals at the Julie Billiard Home, providing nourishment and care for children with disabilities, and later extended her talents to the patients at the Jackson Hospital. Her career culminated at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home, where she retired at the age of 74, leaving a legacy of compassion and warmth in the lives she touched.

A woman of steadfast faith, Mary was a devoted member of the Catholic Church and lived her life guided by its principles of love, service, and humility. Her unwavering faith was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Mary is survived by her seven children: Robert (Sandy) Hecht Jr., Teresa (Al) Hopman, Timothy Hecht, Thomas (LuAnn) Hecht, Jayne (Phil Fanning) Wilhelm, Cynthia (Scott) Jones, and Nancy (Kevin) Urban; 20 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Kenneth (Diana) Hecht; sister-in-law, Donna Hecht; and many nieces, and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Genevieve Ambrose; husband, Robert Hecht, Sr.; three grandchildren; one great grandchild; brother, James Ambrose; daughter-in-law, LuAnn Hecht; mother and father-in-law, Wilfred and Sarah Hecht; step mother-in-law, Wilma Hecht; brothers and sisters-in-law; and other family members.

Mary's kindness, strength, and faith will forever be remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her. Blessed be the memory of Mary Helen Hecht.