Mary Ellen Kingdom was called to her heavenly father on July 22, 2025. Born on February 16, 1926 to Arthur and Mary Curtis at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Rapids Michigan. She was the youngest of three children with two older brothers Arthur and Richard.

In 1937, the summer before her 7th grade year, her family moved to Lowell Michigan where she met the love of her life Wayne Kingdom.

Mary Ellen graduated from Lowell High School in 1943. There she was a Drum Majorette and active in the band and orchestra. She went on to Michigan State University and was a founding member of the Michigan Gamma Chapter of Pi Beta Phi Sorority. Graduating in 1947, she earned a bachelor's degree in Education. Mary Ellen taught at Elementary schools for three years until she married Wayne on May 20, 1949. After living in several different cities Wayne and Mary Ellen settled in Tulsa in 1963.

Once all her children were in school, Mary Ellen started the Preschool program at Salk Elementary then on to Bishop Kelley working in the office for five years. She was active in the Pi Beta Phi Alumni and the Oklahoma Home Community Education. Her most fulfilling work was volunteering at the Little Light House for ten years where she received numerous awards.

As an avid swimmer at the YMCA, Mary Ellen swam three miles a week well into her 90's. She also enjoyed her bridge as well as being a Leader/ Den Mother in scouting for her children. As an amazing cook she was always trying new recipes and there was always room at the dinner table for one more. Named by her beloved nieces and nephews, she was famous for "Aunt Mary Ellen's Tacos". She and Wayne spent many years traveling in their RV, camping and fishing.

As a member of St. Pius Church since 1963, she was active in the parish and enjoyed being part of the Women's Club. She believed in the power of the Holy Rosary and prayed it daily.

Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her mother, father, two brothers, grandson Josh, and her beloved husband of 60 years, Wayne Kingdom. She is survived by her children Christy (Charlie deceased), Susie (Jim), Michele, Mary Ann, Janine (Jerry) and Curt (Tammy), her fourteen grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren as well as her nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to Helen Sage for her devotion to Mary Ellen and weekly communion. Also to In Care caregivers Eva, Rose and KuuAloah and to Tru Heart Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Little Light House at www.littlelighthouse.org and the St. Pius School Endowment Fund to 1727 S. 75th E. Ave,Tulsa, OK 74112.