Mai-Lin Korynta

Mai-lin Lee Korynta, of St. Peters, MO, passed away Sunday, July 24, 2022 at the age of 86. She was born in Hinning, Kwantung, China on December 24, 1935. She grew up in a village called Land of Maple Trees (Fung-shue-lan). Beloved wife of the late James A. Korynta. Mai-lin is survived by her daughter Elena (Thomas) Kohler, stepdaughter Debra (Stewart) Denison, stepson James A. Korynta Jr.; grandchildren Maggie and Benjamin Kohler; niece Anna C. Lee and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mai-lin was the youngest of nine children. Upon immigrating to the US, she attended Saint Mary-of-the- Woods College in Terre Haute, IN, studying education. Later, she completed her masters in Linguistics from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.  Circumstances would land Mai-lin in Missouri where she taught for numerous years at St. Ferdinand School in Florissant, MO, which during this time she met her late husband, James A. Korynta.  They enjoyed 47 lovely years of marriage before his passing in September of 2021. Mai-lin always had a passion for education and interacting with children.  Along with teaching 4th grade, she also taught Mandarin to young children at a local Chinese school for several years.  She completed her teaching career with St. Louis Public Schools first as a French teacher then retiring as a librarian. 

Mai-lin was a kind, compassionate woman and devoted Catholic.  She was a member of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary Bishop Wurm Assembly as well as the Ladies Auxiliary American Legion Post #444 and the Ladies Council at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in St. Charles, MO. Family meant a great deal to Mai-lin.  She always took pride in hearing and sharing news about family accomplishments and celebrations. Mai-lin enjoyed entertaining for family and friends and was always eager to cook and host get togethers for all occasions. She always had a smile on her face and a warm, welcoming heart.  Mai-lin had an amazing way about her, which instantly made you feel comforted and important the moment you met her. She absolutely adored her grandchildren, who brought so much joy to her life. She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

Memorial donations may be made in Mai-lin's name to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Terre Haute, IN or Maryknoll Sisters of Maryknoll, New York.