Mary Kirkpatrick

Mary Kathleen Kirkpatrick, age 82, passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Mary was born on January 5, 1941 in Council Bluffs, IA to Arthur and Garnet (Butler) Martin.

Mary attended Thomas Jefferson High School where she was a Majorette and a saxophone player in the band. She graduated in 1959. She met and married the love of her life, Raymond Kirkpatrick, on August 22, 1959. Mary had a love for music and dancing. She loved playing the organ and piano. She taught music lessons to the neighborhood kids; playing piano, clarinet, flute, drums and of course, the saxophone. She also had a laugh that nobody could ever forget. Mary's greatest joy was spending time with and spoiling her grandchildren. She loved watching them play in sports and went to their games as often as she could.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Paul Arthur Martin; a baby daughter, Karie Annette Kirkpatrick; and special son in law, Matt Tackett.

Mary is survived by her husband of 63 years, Raymond; her daughters: Kris Beckner and Dee Sanford (Phillip); honorary daughter, SiouxSun Butler (Stephen); grandchildren: Ryan Beckner, Holly Dee Isom (Keith), and Karie Sanford (Alex Kingston); great grandchildren: Raylynn Childress, Korbin Beckner, Laci Thomas and Evie Rose Beckner; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, May 17, from 12:00 – 2:00 PM at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St. Benton, AR 72015.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.