Mary Jo Kirtley, 76, originally from Jacksonville, Ark., died December 27, 2023, in Prescott, Ark., where she was a resident of Southern Pines Nursing Home. She was born February 3, 1947, in Perryville, Ark., a daughter of the late P. Inez (Johnson) Kirtley and Sam Monroe Kirtley. She was preceded in death by her older sister Laura D. Uhrich and younger brother Dale L. Kirtley as well as eight brothers and sisters.
Miss Kirtley was a practicing Lutheran and attended services faithfully until she was no longer physically able.
Mary and her mother, Inez Kirtley, were both adventurous travelers and didn’t hesitate to visit relatives and friends in any part of the country from California to Maine at the drop of a hat. Mary enjoyed socializing with her fellow residents at the nursing homes where she was a resident and, until her health prevented it, was actively engaged in all social and craft functions offered. She especially enjoyed Bingo and often won.
Mary is survived by her sister, Sue Kirtley of Cabot, Ark. and her sister-in-law Diane Kirtley; as well as six nieces and nephews, Donna J. Lambert (Gary Cooley), Cliff Uhrich (Adriana), Jeannette Wilson, Mike Kirtley (Varita), Laura Newman, and Merak Dyer. In addition to these nieces and nephews, Mary had an especially close relationship with her great nephew Logan S. Dyer of Cabot. Talking on the phone or visiting his Gogo at the nursing home was one of Logan’s greatest joys. As well as Mary’s.
Mary was blessed with several long-lasting friendships but one especially that merits mentioning is Gean Vines with whom Mary had been friends since she was three years old. All during her time spent in nursing homes and especially during her final illness Gean was a support and comfort to both Mary and her family. Words cannot express the gratitude of Mary’s family for Gean’s love and prayers during this time.
A memorial service for Mary will be held Saturday, January 6, 2023 at 2 p.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service in Jacksonville, Ark. Burial will follow at an unspecified time at Cherry Hill Cemetery in Perry County.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com
4 Comments
So sorry for your loss
I was so sorry to hear the news of Mary’s passing. I have often wondered about her and how she was doing. Sending prayers to all who loved her.
Oh I’m so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. We think of her often here at Perryvle. Prayers for comfort and peace.
Loved Jo so much. She was like family. She will be missed greatly. My condolences to her family.
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