Mary was born on October 4, 1928, in Prairie Home, Missouri and was a lifelong Missouri resident, spending her final years closer to family. Mary was truly a depression era child, one of eight children born to Caroline Regina Benne and William Joseph Klein. Her dad passed away when she was just two years old. While Mary and her siblings grew up the poorest of the poor, their lives were filled with joy, laughter and an everlasting bond. She was the last surviving sibling, the end of a generation, but memories will be kept alive in the heart of those that loved her.
In 1956, Mary married Norman Arnold Williamson in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. They were blessed with two wonderful sons and two amazing daughters in laws. While she loved her boys, the joy and love of her life were her three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mary was very proud of her family, a sign of a remarkable mother and loving upbringing. After 46 years of marriage, Norman proceeded her in death in 2004.
To simply say Mary was a homemaker would be an understatement. She held many roles, actively involved in scouts, school and her church. Mary supported and volunteered for many charities throughout her life, Meals on Wheels, Salvation Army, Spofford Home, Visiting Nurses and Della Lamb. She served as an election supervisor for over 20 years. Mary worked 15 years for Citigroup, developing many lasting friendships. In turn for those devoted years of service, she was certain to live her retirement without worry.
Mary was a devout Christian and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Raytown and later First United Methodist Church in North Kansas City. During her decades of loyal service to the church, she held many roles, most important was that of “nut lady”. Each year the women’s organization would sell nuts for baking. Mary would always take the orders, load her car and make deliveries. Mary sold more than anyone, she had an extensive list of customers waiting each year to use these nuts as gifts or in baking their holiday recipes.
Celebrating Mary’s life are her sons, David Williamson (Cheryl) and Frank Williamson (Debra). Her loving grandchildren, Matt Williamson (Becky), Erin Williamson (Furbaby Annabeth) and Austin Williamson (Brittni) and two beautiful great-grandchildren, Abigail and Ian. She was blessed with many loving nieces and nephews and held their visits, cards, calls and prayers close and dear to her heart.
A funeral service for Mary will be held Saturday, September 7, 2024, 12:30 PM at McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home, 11924 East 47th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64133. Family will receive friends at 12:00 pm prior to the service. Committal service to follow at Mt Washington Cemetery, 614 S Brookside Ave, Independence, MO 64053. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City or to your favorite charity.
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