Mary Kennedy Lawler

Dr. Mary Kennedy Lawler, 65, passed away on June 25. Mary is survived by Dr. James J. Lawler, her loving husband of thirty-seven years; her four loving children Craig, Diane, Jill, and Erin; and her three loving siblings, Joan Osmun, Donna Kennedy, and Bruce Kennedy. Born in 1942 in Washington, D.C., and raised in Dearborn, Michigan, Mary spent the majority of her life in service to others. She earned a bachelors degree in nursing from the University of Michigan and a masters degree in nursing from the University of Pittsburgh. She worked as a pediatric oncology nurse at the University of Pittsburgh after completing her masters degree, during which time she met her future husband, James. After marrying in 1971, Mary moved with James to Stillwater, where he was employed as a professor in the Political Science Department at Oklahoma State University. Marys professional achievements also include completing a PhD in Family Relations and Child Development, teaching Family Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, serving on the Stillwater School Board for three terms, and most recently serving as the director of OSUs Upward Bound Math and Science program. Mary truly loved learning and helping others achieve and grow, especially children and young adults. Most importantly, Mary loved her family. Marys love for her husband James endured beyond the most difficult and challenging circumstances. Their bond sustained her throughout her illness. Being a loving mother to her four children was not only a point of pride, but a comfort during her battle with brain cancer. They are a shining example of her spirit, zest for life, and dedication to others. Mary will be truly missed. Memorial services are set for Saturday, July 5, 2008 at 10:30 a.m., and will be held at the First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Stan Warfield, Jr. officiating. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to either the Lawler familys website for care of her son, who is also fighting cancer, or to the National Brain Tumor Foundation. Links to these sites can be found at www.thelawlerfamily.org . Condolences may be sent by using our online guestbook at www.pmcfh.com. Services are under the direction of Palmer Marler Carberry Funeral Home.