Mary Margaret Boyd
September 12, 1926 ~ December 15, 2007
Boyd, Mary Margaret Morris, passed away Saturday, December 15, 2007. Mary was born September 12, 1926 in Wichita, the daughter of William L. and May Arnett Morris. She graduated from East High School in 1944, and from the University of Kansas in 1948, with a degree in social work. She married James R. Boyd in 1948 and resided in Jims home town of Larned. She was on the social services staff at Larned State Hospital and developed their first occupational therapy program in the state hospital system. In 1967 the Boyd family moved to Wichita. Mary went back to school, taking masters level coursework in social work from WSU, and worked at the Wichita Childrens Home. For many years she was in the residential real estate business, and continued a long family tradition in commercial real estate with Walter Morris Son, the company founded by her grandfather Walter in 1888. She was proud that her children and grandchildren continued working in the family business. She found finding homes for women and single mothers especially gratifying. Mary was always very active in volunteer work in her community. She served as a Girl Scout Leader; on the State Board and as a local Board president of the American Cancer Society; as chair of the University of Kansas Greater University Fund; and on the Boards of the Wichita Childrens Home and the Wichita Art Museum. She was a member of University Congregational Church, Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority and P.E.O. Preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Eloise Morris McMurtry and Carolyn Morris Beckett, brother-in-law, Wilbur McMurtry and nephew, David Kauffman, Mary Margaret is survived by her husband of 59 years, James R. Boyd; sons, Tom (Tammye) Boyd and Mike (Linda) Boyd all of Wichita; daughter, Martha Boyd (Charlie) Gregg of Towanda. Her grandchildren, whom she held near and dear, are Abigail Boyd, John ORourke, Andrew Boyd, Katherine Boyd, David Boyd and Will Gregg. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, James Beckett; nieces, Elizabeth Kay and Carolyn McMurtry; and nephew James (Priscilla) Kauffman. All of her many friends and family will sorely miss her generous, selfless, loving spirit and her thoughtful support and encouragement in all their endeavors. A memorial has been established with Wichita Childrens Home, 810 N. Holyoke, Wichita, KS 67208. Visitation 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, Downing Lahey East Mortuary, Memorial Service 5:00 P.M. Wednesday, University Congregational Church.
Visitation 5:00 ~ 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, Downing Lahey East Mortuary.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family’s loss.
Dear Jim and family, Heaven and the angels are rejoicing now that ‘Miss Mary’ is home with all that have gone before. I didn’t know Mary a long time (about 2 years), but I felt a deep kinship to her. A few weeks after I met her, I told her that if we could pick members of our family, that I would pick her to be one of mine and I was serious. We would laugh and joke around while I was with her. She was one of the kindest people I’ve ever known, and truly was the kind of person you wanted to emulate. She really listened to you when you spoke and would reflect on what you said. She may say later that she had been thinking about what you said (as Martha and I were remembering during a recent phone conversation). Each time I arrived at the house, I would walk in and say loudly ‘YooooHoooo’. From whereever she was in the house she would say ‘YoooHooo’ and that was her way of knowing who was there. I called her ‘Miss Mary’. I loved her and will miss her beautiful face every day. Neda Akers.
To the Boyds: I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mary Margaret. She was certainly a lovely lady. I so much remember her smiling face and joyful and cheerful disposition. She was always so gracious and giving. I remember the summers when Auntie May brought us Perkins kids over for a swim. I also remember the big Morris-Rittenoure wedding celebration we all had. That was a fun time! I was shocked to read of Carolyn’s passsing. I did not know. I remember all the swimming instructions we received from her also. Auntie May was the most sweetest lady I have ever known. I have such fond memories of her. I knew her better than my own grandmother – my entire teenhood was spent with Auntie May as my grandmother and what a wonderful grandmother she was. I think of you all often. I am praying for you during this time of your loss. I know God will sustain you – as He has sustained me through our recent losses – Jeanne in 2005 and Shirlee this time last year. I know you will miss Mary Margaret very much. On behalf of the Perkins kids, we love you and wish you the best and know Mary Margaret is having a great time with her sisters and parents. David Perkins P.S. My youngest daughter, Ashton, almost 12, loves to see Crumps Castle. I tell her my mom and her sisters used to play there as a little girl. And I continue the story about Lawrence/Mildred and Bill/May.
Dear Family of Mary Boyd, What sadness is felt at the loss of this wonderful lady, full of love and kindness, and the uncanny ability to know just the right thing to say at the moment. I did not know her well……but during a period in the late 80’s when residential real estate was in a slump, she and I spent several months together selling my home in east Wichita. To say this is tribute by a customer would be to trivialize what she meant to me at that time. She was much more than my realtor. She was an inspiration to me during a time when I had just gone through a painful divorce. At the time I met Mary, I was a young professional woman. Working hard at my job and devoting much time and energy to succeeding in the corporate world. I much admired Mary’s ability to balance it all and to keep her wonderful perspective regarding, work life, home life, community life. She was an inspiration to me. There are things that she told me that I will always remember. She touched my life deeply, although I regret that I probably never told her in so many words. Some of my warmest memories of Mary involve the final closing of my property. It turned into a several day ‘celebration’. Mary and Carolyn came to the closing all dressed up. Carolyn admonished me for not ‘wearing my hat to a closing’. I apologized as I didn’t know the custom and we all laughed and had a grand time. On move day, Mary was there again to see that all was going smoothly and bearing a beautiful tray from Piccadilly. A week or two later I was treated to lunch with Mary and Carolyn once again. What a pair. I have a vision of the sisters together in Heaven…….angels with the most wonderful hats!! My prayers are with you all. What a beautiful legacy she has left us. What an inspiration! Sincerely, Patti Sullivan
Martha, I’m so sorry to hear about your Mom. She was such a funny, vibrant person. I always enjoyed her visits to Bradford Library to see you and I remember how Morgan arranged your Mom & Dad’s surprise visit last year to the library staff Christmas party. You’re in my thoughts as you go through this difficult time.
Mary is a gem of a woman, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandma, aunt, sister, friend, citizen. I say ‘is’ because she will of course live on in the memories and hearts of the many whom she touched. She was definitely one of my very favorite adults during our growing-up years! And during those years she was sort of a 2nd mom to me. So her passing is very sad for me indeed. Mary’s passing is a very tough thing for all and my heart goes out to the entire Boyd clan. You Boyds have always had a very special place in my life and my heart. Mary is a very big part of that. I am sorry that I can’t physically be with you all tomorrow at her memorial service and life’s celebration. You can be sure that I will be there in spirit. Love, Rusty
To my wonderful friend Martha, I am so very, very sorry to hear this news. Your mother was a magnificent woman who made me smile each time I saw her. She raised a fabulous daughter whose friendship I cherish even though we do not see each other often enough! My thoughts are with you and your family. I will come to see you today to give hugs! May you find healing and comfort in the love of your family and many friends.
Dear Jim. So sorry about Mary. Mid and I have fond memories of our relationship in years past at Palm Desert and especially here at Bradford Place. I see you going by every now and then and think of you at the old Fourth National Bank. Take good care!
Dear Jim & Family, Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and condolences on the loss of Mary. She was a very special lady and will be sorely missed. Here is a poem that has meant a lot to me in the passing of those close to me. ‘To Those I Love And Those Who Love Me’ When I am gone, release me, let me go- I have so many things to see and do. You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears, Be happy that we had so many years. I gave to you my love. You can only guess How much you gave to me in happiness. I thank you for the love you each have shown, But now it’s time I traveled on alone. So grieve for me a while if grieve you must Then let your grief be comforted by trust. It’s only for a while that we must part. So bless the memories within your heart. I won’t be far away, for life goes on, So, if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near… And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear All my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you must come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile, and say, ‘Welcome Home’ You’re all in my thoughts & prayers and if I can be of help in any way, I’m here for you! As ever, Bert Stalker
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Mary’s family.I have known Mary since 1975 when I worked at the WCH in High School and then later when I attended college. Mary recommended me for the WCH Nursery Coordinator job when she was the Nursery Counselor and encouraged me in my work. I later got my SW degree. Many years passed before we crossed paths again; when she and Jim bought some property next to ours in Harper Co. We had a chance to catch up on old times and become friends with Jim. We remember especially Jim on his 80th birthday shooting a goose on the pond and him asking for our help in retrieving it!I am sure he will miss Mary greatly.She was truly a special lady!
Dear Jim and family, Mary and Jim have been a part of my heart for almost thirty years. I shall miss talking with Mary. She could make me feel better just being near her or hearing her voice. Mary was the sweetest,kindest woman I ever knew but she had an inner strength one knew not to cross her. I will always try to follow her lead–to be kind,loving and strong. She had dignity in life and dignity in death. She is my heroine forever. Mary’s memory has a special place in my heart surrounded by love. Always, Brenda Lopez
From Ralph & Laura Arnold to Jim & family: Our deepest sympathy for your loss. We have fond thoughts of all the times our paths have crossed. May your memories comfort you during this difficult time.
Boyd Family: It has been a very long time since you lived in Larned. My name is Debbie Fraser Brooks and I lived down the street from you on Fourth Street in Larned. Martha and I were good friends back then. I spent many hours at the Boyd house and have very fond memories of your mother. She was also so sweet and cheerful. I was sorry to hear about your loss. God Bless you all and know that you are in my prayers.
Martha, I am so sorry for you loss. I remember your mother being so active in the Larned community. I enjoyed visiting with your mom and dad at the Trail Center Donor’s Plaque dedication some time back. We will keep you in our prayers.
Martha, I am so sorry for you loss. I remember your mother being so active in the Larned community. I enjoyed visiting with your mom and dad at the Trail Center Donor’s Plaque dedication some time back. We will keep you in our prayers.