Mary Glassburner

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Mary Theresa Glassburner of Carl Junction, age 75, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Freeman West Hospital, following complications from a recent surgery.

Born on February 7, 1949, in Joplin, MO, Mary was the youngest of six children of Don and Evelyn (McMinn) Tappana. On February 11, 1966, Mary married Ronald “Ronnie” Glassburner, and they enjoyed 46 years of marriage until his passing. They shared a love for square dancing, antiquing, and traveling the Ozarks.

Mary had a generous spirit and loved preparing meals for her family and friends. She was deeply involved in the community, volunteering at Stone’s Throw Theater, where she also served as a board member. As a dedicated member of the Young at Heart group at Christ Church of Oronogo, Mary cherished the time spent with her community. She was known for being a loyal friend and an advocate for the causes she was passionate about. In her spare time, she enjoyed oil painting, reading, traveling, appreciating nature, and planning events she participated in.

Mary graduated from Missouri Southern State College with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and taught Biology at Owasso High School in Owasso, OK, for 10 years. She then worked for the Kansas Department of Agriculture - Kansas Department of Health and Environment for 18 years, serving as the Director of the Bureau of Consumer Health. After retiring from KDHE, she spent 5.5 years at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services as the State Environmental Director. Mary was an accomplished professional, known for her dedication and expertise in various fields throughout her career.

Recently, Mary met Tony Voiner of Webb City, with whom she enjoyed spending quality time and making plans for the future.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Don Tappana; her mother, Evelyn (McMinn) Tappana; her husband, Ronald “Ron” Glassburner; her son, Mark Glassburner; her father-in-law, Harry Glassburner; her mother-in-law, Helen (Rogers) Glassburner; her sister, Helen Hight; her brothers, Leslie “Les” Tappana and Mack Tappana; her cherished dog, Darlington “Dar Dog”; and several other dear family members.

She is survived by her son, Leslie “Les” Glassburner (Katie) of Crystal City, MO; her sister, Ellen Oney of Webb City, MO; her brother, Don “Donnie” Tappana of Sedalia, MO; and her friend, Tony Voiner of Webb City, along with many supportive and loving family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, at Christ Church of Oronogo Student Ministry Center East, officiated by Pastor Peter Buckland. Burial will follow in Weaver Cemetery near Oronogo, MO. 

Pallbearers will be Scott Buffer, Dylan Walker, Jace Buffer, Kelby Buffer, Landry Buffer and Daniel Stadler. Honorary pallbearers Ronald “Bullsie” Oney and Jude Stadler. The family will receive friends at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, prior to the service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.