Savannah has lost one of its treasures. Mary Anne Rourke Hornkohl passed away on the morning of October 12, 2025 at The Oaks on Isle of Hope where she resided. Born on September 7, 1939, in Savannah, Mary Anne had just celebrated her 86th birthday.

Mary Anne was preceded in death by her parents Arthur Lawrence and Veronica Dillon Rourke, her brother Arthur Lawrence Rourke, Jr., her dear spouse Marc L. Hornkohl and several cherished dogs. Surviving are her beloved cousins, Broughton and Josie Rourke Kelly and her lifelong friend, Judy R. Downing.

Raised in the Catholic Church, Mary Anne attended Blessed Sacrament School and was a 1957 graduate of Saint Vincent’s Academy where she was a cheerleader for the Benedictine Cadets. She was employed at Savannah Electric and Power Company retiring after fifty years of service. She remained a vigorous Irish Catholic throughout her life. She formed enduring relationships beginning in 1945 until her retirement in 2006.

Mary Anne was born a natural comedian entertaining all present anywhere, anytime, always leaving ‘em laughing and wanting more. Her escapades are legendary. Sometimes not appreciated by authority – you know who you are!  A quick Irish rebuttal given, not always welcomed, but usually the last word.

 Mary Anne loved children and enchanted each one she knew especially by making funny faces and passing out dollar bills with a whisper in the ear. Children and grandchildren of her friends were her fun extended family – lucky kids!

Mike O’Connor and his wife Dee saw to the care of Mary Anne these last few years. Special “grands”, now grown to adulthood, remained solidly attentive to her needs and requests along with her “nieces”, Dee O’Connor, Christa Anderson, and Sharon Hart who grew up with and knew her as “Aunt Witchie”.

If perusing Savannah on foot you will probably step on iron utility covers stamped with “Rourke Iron Works”, along with lovely iron balconies, and historic downspouts. When you do, say a big hello to Mary Anne Rourke!

Services will remain private. Remembrances may be made to Saint Vincent’s Academy, 207 E. Liberty Street, Savannah GA  31401 or Benedictine Military School, 6502 Seawright Drive, Savannah GA or the Humane Society of Greater Savannah, 7215 Sallie Mood Drive, Savannah GA  31406.  Please sign the online guest book.