Helen Marianne McMullen passed away peacefully on February 25, 2016. Family will receive friends from noon-1:30 PM, on Saturday, March 5, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11822 Holmes Rd., KCMO. Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 1:30 PM at the church.
Marianne was born in Kansas City, MO, to Helen Byrne and Clement J. McCormick. She attended Loretto Grade School, Bishop Lillis High School, and College of St. Teresa. Marianne was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 64 years, Edward L. McMullen. She leaves behind their children, Michael McMullen (Maureen), Mary McMullen-Light (Gary), Mark McMullen, and Marcia McMullen; and her grandchildren, Brendan and Ellie Light.
In her life as a devoted mother and community volunteer, Marianne served as a perpetual room mother and carpool driver for her children, a Brownie leader, and active PTA member at a St. Peter’s Grade School. She also assumed leadership roles as President of the St. Teresa’s Academy Mother’s Guild (twice), President of the Rockhurst High School Mother’s Club, President of the Rockhurst College Circle, and member of the Notre Dame Auxiliary. Her volunteerism focused on Catholic causes and charities.
She also loved entertaining and was noted for her fabulous cooking and signature dishes. Her passion for cooking led to a 10-year career at Halls Crown Center in the Kitchenworks department where she shined as a culinary resource for her customers. She cherished her Irish heritage and never missed celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with family and friends.
Marianne’s deep and steadfast faith and buoyant optimism carried her through all adversity. She had a lifelong devotion to the Blessed Virgin evidenced through her vibrant spiritual life. She forged powerful relationships with everyone she knew at every point in her life. She was known for a radiant love that drew people near in authentic and generous ways, making them feel that they were important to her, which, of course, they were. Many will long remember her twinkling eyes and beautiful smile.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Belinda Vail, Dr. Charles Porter, Dr. Talal Kahn, and Dr. Lynn Roh of KU Medical Center for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts made in Marianne’s name to Children’s Mercy Hospital and to Little Sisters of the Poor in KCMO. Assistance by Funeral Advocates, LLC.
Very sorry for your loss, Marcia. Marianne sounds like she was a lovely lady.
I did not have the great honor of meeting Marianne, but I have worked for several years with her daughter, Marcia, who is a beautiful reflection of her mom’s spirit and their shared love of God, family and community. I can only imagine what a gift Marianne was to all who knew and loved her and what a gift she carries with her for all of eternity because of your love. Blessings to all from Deb in Minneapolis
Marianne was a delightful, gracious and beautiful lady. I always enjoyed seeing her and visiting with her at Nottingham Health & Rehab, where I volunteer. Her smile lit up the room, and she will certainly be missed. My sincere condolences go out to her family.
Marcia: my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. Gods blessing to your family during this celebration of her life and grieving for your loss. Eugene
Mary & Marcia,
I’m sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I remember Marianne as a constant at Connor family gatherings at 5300 Charlotte. She brought her grace to each of those gatherings, and God knows except for Gertrude, the Connors could run short there!
Our prayers are with you and your families,
Keith Connor
What a beautiful life story! Your mother – and father- are surely watching over you, as always and still now, proud of how each of you are carrying forward the love they shared. I am so disappointed to miss the celebration of your sweet mother’s life this weekend but I will be holding each of you close in my heart. May tender memories of your mother wrap you in joy and carry you through these difficult first days of life without her here on earth. My love and prayers to each of you… Kate❤️
Mary, my apologies for not being able to attend your Mom’s services. I had a conflict with another funeral for a long term employee of our family business, which happens quite often nowadays. I hope it was a memorable experience. God Bless Your Mom.
Mary & family,
I wish I could of met your Mother. So sorry for your loss.
Sending you all love and support.