Mary Ruark

(From Knell Mortuary)

Mary Jane (Ward) Ruark (October 20, 1948 – June 27, 2021)

Mary Jane Ruark of Joplin passed away Sunday, June 27, 2021 after battling a long illness. Mary was born in Carthage, Missouri to Jack and Wilma Ward.

She was fortunate to meet the love of her life, Dennis “Denny” Ruark at a young age and the two married and had three children.

Mary received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Missouri Southern State University and her Master’s degree from Pittsburg State University. She worked as a clinical psychologist for the State of Oklahoma and as the staff psychologist at Saint John’s Hospital in Joplin. She also served as President of Crisis Intervention of Joplin. 

Mary continued to study psychology and human behavior throughout her life and was able to bring comfort and joy to many people. She was truly a great psychologist. Mary enjoyed spending time with family and friends, vacationing, gardening and cooking.

She is survived by her husband, Dennis L. Ruark; her daughter, Jadi K. MacCrimman (Eric); her son Dustin R. Ruark; her sister, Shirley Kay Martin; and many dear friends. She will be reunited in heaven with her son Dennis Ruark, Jr.; her brother, Jack “Butch” Ward; and many other beloved friends and family.

Memorial visitation will be held 7-9 pm, Thursday, July 1, 2021 at Knell Mortuary, Carthage.
Memorial gifts are suggested to Cerebral Palsy Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Hospital in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.