(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)Mary Ann Stone, age 71, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away after a brief illness on Wednesday evening, June 12, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.
Born on February 8, 1953, in Mineral Wells, Texas, Mary Ann's early years were spent in various locations around the world, a reflection of her parents' service in the United States Military.
Eventually, the family settled in Springfield, Missouri, where she graduated from Glendale High School in 1971. Mary Ann's thirst for knowledge led her to Southwest Missouri State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in secondary education, followed by a master's degree in library science from Pittsburg State University.
Mary Ann's professional life was marked by her dedication to education. She began her teaching career at Webb City Junior High and then devoted over 30 years to the Carthage School District before retiring in 2010. Her passion for learning and her commitment to her students left an indelible mark on the community she served. Mary Ann was also a member of Central United Methodist Church in Webb City.
Mary Ann was an avid volunteer at Stone's Throw Dinner Theatre, where she joyfully worked in the kitchen. Her love for the outdoors was evident in her beautifully tended garden, a place where she found peace and contentment. She enjoyed creating floral arrangements and cooking family meals, always enough to feed an army. Mary Ann's sense of humor was a source of joy for all who knew her, and her innate ability to help others made her a sister in spirit to many.
Mary Ann's legacy is carried on by her loving family. She is survived by her two children, Mariam Watson and her husband, Christopher, of Indianapolis, Indiana, and James Stone of Webb City, Missouri; two grandchildren, Rose and Benjamin Watson; two brothers, John Schultz and wife, Vera Jane, of Springfield, Missouri and Edward Schultz also of Springfield. Her former husband, Jim Stone of Joplin, along with a host of other family and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marion (Uyeda) Schultz, who instilled in her the values of service and education that she carried throughout her life.
Mary Ann's professional life was marked by her dedication to education. She began her teaching career at Webb City Junior High and then devoted over 30 years to the Carthage School District before retiring in 2010. Her passion for learning and her commitment to her students left an indelible mark on the community she served. Mary Ann was also a member of Central United Methodist Church in Webb City.
Mary Ann was an avid volunteer at Stone's Throw Dinner Theatre, where she joyfully worked in the kitchen. Her love for the outdoors was evident in her beautifully tended garden, a place where she found peace and contentment. She enjoyed creating floral arrangements and cooking family meals, always enough to feed an army. Mary Ann's sense of humor was a source of joy for all who knew her, and her innate ability to help others made her a sister in spirit to many.
Mary Ann's legacy is carried on by her loving family. She is survived by her two children, Mariam Watson and her husband, Christopher, of Indianapolis, Indiana, and James Stone of Webb City, Missouri; two grandchildren, Rose and Benjamin Watson; two brothers, John Schultz and wife, Vera Jane, of Springfield, Missouri and Edward Schultz also of Springfield. Her former husband, Jim Stone of Joplin, along with a host of other family and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marion (Uyeda) Schultz, who instilled in her the values of service and education that she carried throughout her life.
Mary Ann Stone's journey on earth may have come to an end, but her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her unwavering kindness, intelligence, and dedication to others have left a lasting impact that will not be forgotten. As we say goodbye to Mary Ann, we celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who was truly loved and will be deeply missed.
Memorial services are 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 21, 2024 at Central United Methodist Church in Webb City, Missouri with Pastor Chris Jackson officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials are being directed to Girlsinc, a charity focused on inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold, c/o the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.
Prayers for the family. Stone’s Throw has lost a true friend.
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