Mary Ellen Burkett

Lifelong Oklahoma resident Mary Ellen Burkett, 84, went to be with the Lord on December 7, 2023 in Norman, Oklahoma surrounded by her loved ones. Mary Ellen was born in Farley, Oklahoma to J.D. Merit and Mayme Ellen (Rhodes) Merit.

Mary Ellen received her Bachelors of Science in Education and spent several years as a teacher. Mary Ellen loved listening to popular music, comedy skits, watching her midafternoon soap operas, mastering the 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles, and spending time with family like keeping up with the activities of the grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mary Ellen was very quick to solve problems and was a memorable mentor and counselor for her grandchildren.

On August 1, 1963, Mary Ellen married the love of her life, Garland Burkett. They spent 60 wonderful years together. Mary Ellen was a caring and generous wife, mother, and grandmother.

Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her parents J.D. Merit and Mayme Ellen (Rhodes) Merit, and brother Leroy Merit.

Those left to cherish Mary Ellen’s memory are her husband Garland Burkett of the home; daughter Susan Hinsley of Weatherford, Texas; daughter Debbie Keen (Lee) of Norman, Oklahoma; grandchildren Kayla Mondello, Jennifer Pacicca (Eric), Tyler Sergent, Aaron Hinsley, and Jared Hinsley; great grandchildren Bailey Sykes, Kenzie Sykes, and Kelby Mondello; multiple nieces and nephews; and furbaby Laika.

A funeral service for Mary Ellen will be held Friday, December 15, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, 2301 E Indian Hills Rd, Norman, OK 73071.