In Loving Memory of Mary Kathleen Eddings
Mary Kathleen Eddings, of Kearney, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026 at home, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, music, and service to her community. She was born in Yakima, Washington, on October 6, 1946, and graduated from Bergman High School in 1965.
Mary devoted her life to her family and was a loving mother who raised her two daughters, Mary Elizabeth Eddings and Janet Rogers. She was also a beloved grandmother and great-grandmother who treasured the time she spent with her family.
For more than 14 years, Mary worked at the Clay County Girls Group Home, where her compassion, dedication, and caring nature touched the lives of many young people. She was also deeply involved in the bluegrass and old-time music community. Mary proudly served as President of HABOT (Heart of America Bluegrass and Old Time Music) for more than 10 years. Her love of music and the friendships she formed through HABOT became an important part of her life and the legacy she leaves behind.
Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Glen Joe Eddings; daughters, Mary Elizabeth Eddings and Janet Rogers; grandsons, Dylan Riffle, Cole Riffle, and Boston Tillery; great-grandson, Everett Tillery; brother, Jackie Caton; nephews, Jason Hefley and Dana Caton; mother-in-law, Lenora Eddings; sisters-in-law, Shelia Eddings, Marsha Boyd and Nel Eddings; and brothers-in-law, Don Eddings and Rob Boyd.
She was preceded in death by her father, Woodrow “Jack” Caton; mother, Etha Caton; sister, Patsy Hefley; brother-in-law, John Paul Hefley; sister-in-law, Linda Caton; father-in-law, Glen Eddings; and nephew, Raymond Caton.
Mary will be remembered for her loving heart, unwavering devotion to her family, compassion for others, and passion for bluegrass and old-time music. She leaves behind cherished memories in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
Her love, laughter, kindness, and music will live on through the many people who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Visitation services will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026 at First Christian Church of
Kearney in Kearney, Missouri. Funeral services to immediately follow with burial at Fairview Cemetery.
Arrangements in care of Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Kearney.
