Mary Kay Seals

Mary Martinson Seals was born on June 27, 1941, in Albert Lea, Minn., to Lawrence Vincent Martinson and Julia Antoinette Hove. An only child, she grew up in Northwood, Iowa, surrounded by a close-knit group of girlfriends whose bonds she treasured throughout her life.

She attended Mankato State for a year before leaving college to marry her high school sweetheart. Though their marriage was not permanent, they shared two children, Jon Vincent and Jody Lynn. Bellevue, Neb. became home for many years, where Mary built a career first as a dental hygienist before transitioning to an administrative role at First Data Corporation.

Mary met Cliff Seals on a blind date, and their love story began. After several years together, they married in 1989. Their life took them overseas to Germany, where they embraced adventure, traveling across Europe and exploring the landscapes and cultures of Italy, Switzerland, Austria, England, and France. Mary treasured these experiences and loved sharing stories about their travels. They returned to the states and settled in Florida.

In 1999, her daughter Jody and son-in-law moved to Florida, bringing Mary immense joy. She built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and simple pleasures. She adored her schnauzers, always having at least one happily trotting by her side. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, visiting craft fairs, hunting for the perfect pair of shoes, and fresh flowers in her kitchen. Mary had a way of making people feel special, whether it was through a warm hug, a kind word, or simply the way she listened with her whole heart.

Mary is survived by her beloved husband, Cliff Seals; her daughter, Jody (Dan) Smith; and her grandchildren, Connor, Drew, and Julia. She is also survived by her stepchildren, David (Tina) Seals, Steve (Clista) Seals, Jeff Seals, and Lisa (Dan) Boone, along with 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Julia Martinson; and her son, Jon Vincent Millard.

Mary’s legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved

A funeral service for Mary will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Stowers Funeral Home, 401 West Brandon Boulevard, Brandon, Florida. Interment to follow in Hillsboro Memorial Gardens, 2323 West Brandon Boulevard. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home.