Mary Katherine Stark

On a bright Saturday, May 23, 1936, the world became a little richer as Thelma and Charles McBriarty welcomed their beloved daughter, Mary K. Stark (McBriarty), into their lives. Born and raised in the charming town of Elgin, Illinois, Mary shared a special bond with her older brother, Charlie, and younger brother, Bob—a connection that remained strong throughout their lives.

Mary was a woman of remarkable intelligence, curiosity, and tenacity, qualities that shaped her journey and led her to accomplish many great things. She dedicated part of her career to the field of pharmaceuticals before becoming a pioneer in the early days of computer programming. With a generous spirit, she volunteered her time and talents, using her knowledge to help shape a better future.

It was at Purdue University that Mary met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” O. Stark. Their connection was instant and undeniable, a love story that would stand the test of time. Shortly after, she took his last name, and together, they built a life filled with love, devotion, and shared adventures. Their marriage was a testament to true partnership, and anyone who had the pleasure of knowing them witnessed the deep and unwavering love they had for each other.

Their union was blessed with four wonderful children—Michael, Katherine, Robert and Timothy. Mary’s love for her family was fierce and unconditional. She poured her heart into being a devoted mother, wife, and homemaker, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories. Her love, along with Dick’s, provided a foundation of strength and kindness that overflowed onto their children. She was blessed with eight grandchildren, Michael, Benjamin, Daniel, Christopher, Erin, Michelle, Timothy and Nicole. She was also fortunate to see great grandchildren, Braden, Lou, Lola and Will born to further bless her legacy.

Mary and Dick’s journey took them to many places, following Dick’s work with IBM and Sematech. From Indiana, New York, Vermont, Arizona, Texas and finally back to Arizona, they embraced each new home with open hearts, making lifelong friends along the way. Mary loved designing and creating new homes at each new location, with her practiced eye and strong common sense making each new house unique and more comfortable.

In their later years, Mary and Dick found joy in life’s simple pleasures. They spent many happy days playing golf together, enjoying the companionship of their beloved dog, Larry, and relishing the tranquility of retirement. Mary had a passion for gardening, and her love for nature shone through in the way she nurtured her plants and delighted in the presence of birds.

Mary’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and quiet strength. She touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving behind beautiful memories that will be cherished forever. Though she has departed from this world, her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

She is reunited now with her beloved Dick, her parents, daughter Kathy, and brother Bob, watching over her loved ones with the same fierce love and devotion that defined her life.

Mary will be deeply missed, but her light will never fade.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 10, at 12:30 PM at East Lawn Palms Mortuary, 5801 E Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712, with a graveside service and reception to follow.