Mary Kay Story

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Mary Kay moved to San Marcos, Texas, where she graduated from San Marcos High School. There, she was a cheerleader and a lifelong friend to many. At Southern Methodist University, she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, earned recognition as an SMU Rotunda Beauty, and met her husband, Herbert Story Jr.

Throughout Herb’s time in the military, Mary Kay created welcoming homes wherever life took their family before they ultimately settled in Dallas. Her faith and commitment to serving others was a central part of her life. She taught Bible studies at Highland Park Presbyterian Church and was a lifelong student of the Bible. Mary Kay also enjoyed cooking meals for over 20 years at Ronald McDonald House alongside a special group of friends and was active in both the Dallas Woman's Club and the Dallas Garden Club.

Mary Kay had a special gift for making people feel at home. An exceptional cook and gracious hostess, she became affectionately known as the heart behind many of the recipes at S&D Oyster Company, drawing inspiration from Herb’s Naval Service and their time stationed along different coastlines. She enjoyed entertaining family and friends, creating beautiful needlepoint pieces, and spending time with her cherished golden retrievers. She especially treasured summers in Creede, Colorado, surrounded by those she loved most.

Above all, Mary Kay was devoted to her family and was affectionately known as “Maa” by her adoring grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Herb, daughter Stephanie and husband Todd, son Doak and wife Margaret and grandkids, Claire and husband David, Ben, Jack, Charlie and Will. She loved her in-laws and was “Aunt Mary Kay” to her wonderful nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis Maurice “Mo” Mauldin and Martha Jane Rush Mauldin; her brother, Donald Maurice Mauldin; and her beloved son, Charles Mauldin Story.

The family is deeply grateful for the loving care provided by her doctor and family friend, Grady Goodwin and her full-time caregiver, Rhonda, along with Kenya, Joyce, and Tiandra, who cared for her over the past few years. Misha and her staff at Avalon Memory Care as well as Allstar Hospice and Nurse Chow also provided such compassionate care during her final days.

A memorial service celebrating Mary Kay’s life will be held at 10:00am on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Highland Park Presbyterian Church.