Mary O'Loughlin Obituary

Mary Ellen O'Loughlin, 89, of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family in the comfort of her home. Born on August 18, 1936, in Brownell, Kansas, to Harrold and Marjorie (Nowles) Walker, Mary's life was a testament to warmth, resilience, and an infectious sense of humor that brightened the lives of all who knew her.

Raised on her family's farm in Brownell, Mary grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work and community. A proud 1954 graduate of Brownell High School, she carried the values of her small-town roots throughout her life. In December of 1956, Mary married Tom O'Loughlin in Hays, Kansas, beginning a shared journey that brought them two cherished daughters, Christine and Paula. Though their marriage later ended in divorce, Mary and Tom remained friends until his passing in 1997, a reflection of her enduring kindness and grace.

Mary's professional career was marked by dedication and skill. As a bookkeeper and office manager for a food supply company in Florida, she brought precision and care to her work, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike. After many years of service, she retired to St. Joseph, Missouri, where she continued to nurture her family and friendships.

Mary's laughter was legendary-a melody that could light up any room. Her sharp wit and joyful spirit left an indelible mark on everyone, fortunate enough to share in her stories and company. She was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, whose love wove a tapestry of connection across generations.

Mary is survived by her beloved daughters, Christine Kane and Paula Rappold (Daniel); her sister, Peggy Birzer (Richard); her granddaughters, Amy Shelton Jenkins (Acle) and Elizabeth Champion; her great-grandchildren, April Jenkins Jones (Joshua), Adrianna Jenkins, Clayton Martin, Caleb Martin, Cambryn Champion, Journey Hayslett, and Josiah Hayslett; and her great-great-grandchildren, Matthew Jones, Lillian Jones, Stiles Jones, Liam Jones, Logan Jenkins Sill, and Olivia Jenkins Sill. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Hal Walker.

A graveside funeral service to celebrate Mary's life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at McCracken Cemetery in McCracken, Kansas.

Words of sympathy and support for the family may be shared at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Mary Ellen O'Loughlin's laughter and love will echo in the hearts of those she touched, a legacy of joy that will endure for generations. May she rest in peace, forever cherished.