Mary Frances McKinlay

Mary Frances McKinlay

November 19, 1937 - September 17, 2022

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Mary's Obituary

Mary McKinlay, 84, surrounded by those who loved her, went home on Saturday, September 17, 2022, to be with Jesus and many loved ones who passed before her. She was born in White Sulphur Springs, MT on November 19, 1937. She grew up with five siblings with whom she remained very close throughout her life.

On June 23, 1954, Mary married the love of her life, John McKinlay. She was a loyal Air Force wife who followed John around the country for twenty-one years. They had four children and two original dachshunds. Mary was a member of the West Side Methodist Church in Great Falls. They retired in Helena on a thirty-acre horse ranch, acquired many more dachshunds and served the Covenant Methodist Church for thirty-five years. She worked for Elk River Concrete and the State of Montana Gaming Department.

Mary enjoyed church fundraisers with her sister Jean, making her signature fudge and Christmas crafts. She also enjoyed camping, square dancing and entertaining friends and family who came to visit. She was very involved in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s lives. She and John returned to Great Falls to be close to family. She lived out her remaining nine years walking her dogs and attending family functions and holidays.

She is survived by two children, Kate (Butch) Johnson and Jim (Marie) McKinlay; five grandchildren, Bobbie (Jeff) Short, Jeremy (Shayne) Johnson, Leah McKinlay, Johnny McKinlay and Bobby (Cindy) McKinlay; seven great-grandchildren, Thain (Cerena) Johnson, Allysa Short, Briggs Johnson, Bridger Short, Scarlet McKinlay, Karver McKinlay, and Olivia McKinlay; and one great-great-grandchild who is on his way.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Johnny and Bobby; brothers, Mick and Ed; sister, Barb; and husband, John. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday November 5, 2022, at 12:00 noon, at West Side Methodist Church. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Celebration Of Life

West Side United Methodist Church
  • Email Details
  • 726 Central Avenue West
    Great Falls, MT 59404

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