Mary Katherine Futch

Born on March 5, 1951, in Covington, Kentucky, Mary grew up with a deep appreciation for the natural world and a boundless curiosity that would shape her life in countless ways.

Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband of 50 years, Harry C. Futch, Jr., as well as her parents, Rosemary David Spreter and Harry J. Spreter.

After graduating from Holmes High school, Mary was visiting Jacksonville, FL where she met the love of her life, Harry C. Futch, Jr. at a watermelon eating party. Over the years, she and Harry welcomed a menagerie of pets into their lives— including a rabbit, squirrels, honeybees, dogs, cats (current kitties are Butter, Spot, Percy, Pinky, Rainbow, Patch, Lily and Marjorie), and even a red-eared slider turtle named Olga—each one cherished as part of their family.

A woman of many talents and interests, Mary had an insatiable love for learning and expression. Her wry sense of humor brought levity to conversations and added sparkle to everyday moments.

Mary’s hobbies were as varied as they were expressive. She sewed with care and crocheted intricate patterns; she practiced calligraphy with elegance and painted with a thoughtful hand. A voracious reader, she amassed an extensive and diverse collection of books that reflected her wide-ranging interests, intellectual curiosity and sense of adventure. Her passion for documenting life’s details was evident in the diligent, copious journals she kept—thoughtful reflections that captured both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of her days.

Christmas held a special place in Mary’s heart. She and Harry delighted in decorating their home each year with an extensive collection of ornaments and festive treasures. Their tradition of posing for photos in front of their Christmas trees became cherished memories that captured their shared joy.

Resourceful by nature, Mary believed nothing should go to waste. She repurposed everyday items with ingenuity—envelope corners became bookmarks; empty cat litter containers were transformed into practical storage solutions, plastic lids protected furniture and shelves from water marks; nothing went to waste under her thoughtful eye.

Mary found wonder in the smallest offerings of nature - feathers gathered, pressed flowers and leaves preserved between pages, rocks and shells from places that held meaning to her. She and Harry would often celebrate Thanksgiving with a picnic lunch near a bend in the St Johns River. Her awe of the natural world led her to earn her Master Gardener certification in 2008—a testament to her dedication to cultivating beauty from the earth.

Mary cherished connection—she stayed in touch with childhood friends, became dear friends with fellow Master Gardeners and loved her neighbors. All remained dear to her through her final moments here on earth.

Mary’s legacy is one of quiet brilliance—a life lived through observation, creation, and care. Her memory will live on in the gardens she nurtured, the books she treasured, and the hearts of those who knew her. Mary was a cherished neighbor whose kindness and generosity of spirit left lasting impressions on those around her.

May Mary’s memory bring comfort to those who loved and knew her and serve as a reminder of the beauty found in simple acts of curiosity, compassion, and creativity.