Mary Frances Joiner, 102, passed away Sept. 21, 2024, at Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington, Kan. She was born Sept. 12, 1922, in Sterling, Kan., to James and Sylvia (Webb) Young.

With her father passing at a young age, Mary grew up as the caretaker for her family, looking after her brothers and sisters. She was witty and humorous and would often play tricks, to the dismay of her mother. Later in life, she married Andrew Jackson “Jack” Joiner, Jr. Nov. 25, 1978, in Ellinwood. He died March 5, 2008.

Mary worked as a telephone operator while living in Oregon and later owned and operated a very successful and sought after newsstand in Lyons, next to the bus stop. After retirement, she loved going to the senior center, spending time with friends, playing dominoes, and enjoyed traveling. Mary quickly found love in her two Schnauzers, Peppy and Dixie and her cat, Annie. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her stepsons Jack Joiner and wife Tricia, Donnie Joiner and wife Rosie, and Mike Joiner; 13 step grandchildren; 44 step great grandchildren; and 18 step great great grandchildren; nephews, James Myers and Larry Brown; and nieces, Nancy Gerard, Donna Hanover and Brenda Christiansen. She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, and stepsons Chris Sollars and Kevin Joiner.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Diana Webster presiding. Interment will be 2 p.m. at Sterling City Cemetery, Sterling, Kan. Visitation will be held Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, from noon to 8 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to First United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Sept. 26, 2024