Mary Lee (Saunders) Kirk

Mary Lee Kirk, 88, formerly of Muskogee, Oklahoma, and most recently of Mansfield, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, in Fort Worth, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength.

Mary was born on October 8, 1932, in Miami, Oklahoma, to Otis Lee and Myrtle Ester (Guernsey) Saunders. From an early age, she carried within her a spirit of kindness, resilience, and deep compassion that would shape the way she lived her life and cared for others.

At the age of 18, Mary married the love of her life, George Kirk, on June 3, 1951. Their marriage was a true partnership—one built on unwavering love, shared purpose, and steadfast commitment. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and enduring support. Mary’s greatest joy came from being a wife and mother, and she poured her heart into caring for her family in ways both big and small.

She stood faithfully beside George in their family business, offering not only her help but her steady presence and encouragement. In 1956, they settled in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where Mary became a deeply cherished member of her community. Her faith guided her life, and she found great meaning in her involvement with First United Methodist Church, the Friendship Class, Chapter B of PEO, the United Methodist Women’s Society, and the Service League of Women. She gave of herself generously, always with humility and grace, even serving as president of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Association in 1978.

Mary found beauty in life’s simple moments. She spent countless hours sewing, creating with her loving hands, and expressing herself through painting. She delighted in a good game of bridge and the friendships that came with it. But nothing brought her more happiness than time spent with her family, whom she loved deeply and unconditionally.

She is lovingly remembered by her son, Gary E. Kirk of Canyon City, Colorado; her treasured grandchildren, Nicolas Cary, Miranda Cary, Brandy Kirk-Harrison, Karlee (Kirk) Heppel, Clay Wilkerson, and Mitch Wilkerson; her great grandchildren, Tessa Heppel, Gavyn Heppel, Connor Harrison, Natalee Harrison, Dylan Harrison and Bryn Harrison.  Each of them carrying forward a piece of her gentle spirit and enduring love.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, George Kirk; her daughters, Cindy Cary and Karen Wilkerson. While her family feels the deep sorrow of her absence, they take comfort in knowing she is reunited with her loved ones once again.

On Friday, March 20, 2026, Mary’s cremated remains will be placed beside her beloved husband, George Kirk in the mausoleum at Memorial Park Cemetery, 7600 Old Taft Rd., Muskogee, Oklahoma. Though no formal services are scheduled, her life will continue to be celebrated in the hearts and memories of all who knew and loved her.

Mary will be remembered not only for what she did, but for who she was—a woman of grace, quiet strength, and a heart full of love. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the countless lives she touched.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hunn Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 211 W. Okmulgee Ave., Checotah, Oklahoma.

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