of Rochester, MN
February 6, 1941 - September 25, 2024
Mary Frances McCoy Burton, age 83, of Rochester, Minnesota died on September 25, 2024. She was preceded in death by her father, Dr. Orville B. McCoy; mother, Ruth Kirby McCoy; sister, Ruth Kay Turner and son, S. Bruce Burton, Jr. After graduating from Harrison High School in Harrison, Arkansas, Mary attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and was an ardent life-long Razorback fan.
Mary led a full life. She attained her private pilot license at the age of 25 after soloing in a Cherokee 140. A gifted musician and accomplished pianist, she enjoyed composing music and playing the piano for family, friends, and residents of care facilities throughout Little Rock. She was a lifelong duplicate bridge player and a member of the Arkansas Duplicate Bridge Club. She attained the Life Master Rank in 2017. She was also devoted to her Christian faith and had served as a Sunday School teacher, and choir director and frequently attended Kay Arthur Bible studies.
She is survived by her brother, Philip Michael McCoy of Harrison, Arkansas; daughter, Dr. Caroline Burton of Rochester, Minnesota and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
A graveside service was held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Maplewood Cemetery in Harrison, Arkansas with Father Isaac Petty officiating.
Honorary pallbearers were Jeffrey Burton, David Burton, Gary Mead, Larry Don Alford, and Michael Grammer.
The family expresses its gratitude to Mary's loving caregivers, Donneailla Brooks, Sue Fisher, Sara Meinke, Etta Meincke, Taylor Amsden; to Mayo Clinic Hospice, Dr. Kevin Whitford, Suzanne Bundrick, C.N.P. and Nicole Schoenfelder, RN; to the Mayo Clinic Palliative Care; Homebound Program and Courtney Maks, C.N.P. and to the staff of Shorewood Senior Campus in Rochester, Minnesota. The family would also like to recognize Dr. Nidhi Jain at CHI St. Vincent in Little Rock, Arkansas for her years of extraordinary dedication to Mary's care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116, or to the Ozark Humane Society, 5147 Rock Springs Rd W, Harrison, Arkansas 72601.
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11 Condolence(s)
Jean Anne Mesavage Boone
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Laura Boldenow
Monday, October 14, 2024
Dear Dr. Burton,
I am so disheartened to hear about the passing of your mother. I can only imagine the tremendous loss you are feeling. I could tell how much you loved her each time you spoke about her—especially on Sunday’s when you would go to wash her hair. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help and support you during this time.
Laura Boldenow
Anna Anthony
Friday, October 11, 2024
Dr. Burton,
This is a beautiful tribute to your mother - I loved reading about her passions and the many ways she served those around her. That is a beautiful photo of her. You are such a loving daughter - providing her excellent care and support until the end of her life.
Thinking of you during this difficult time.
- Anna Anthony
Alex Ryu
Monday, October 7, 2024
Dear Caroline, I am grateful to learn a bit about your mother's incredible life. She sounds like a lively and inspiring person and I know she was very dear to you. Her love for piano and composition seems particularly special. Wishing you peace and strength in the days ahead.
Anne Schletty
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Dr. Burton, my heart goes out to you. Mary sounds like an extraordinary woman who led an incredible life and had a positive impact on many around her. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy. Sending you peace and comfort in the weeks ahead.
Jamie
Monday, September 30, 2024
I can see the family resemblance! Master Bridge player says it all... She was lucky to have you as her daughter
Jenni Hovell
Monday, September 30, 2024
Caroline,
It is so wonderful to see the zest for life that your mother had so clearly reflected in all of the amazing adventures you've had. Wishing you healing time with your family sharing your wonderful memories together.
Jenni
Gururaj Kolar
Monday, September 30, 2024
Dear Caroline, I remember how you were taking care of your mother and helping her with her maintaining health. It clearly shows the caring person that you are and reading about your mother, it's evident that your mother has had great influence on you. I hope she is at peace and wish you all the strength in the world.
Edith Williams Barrett
Sunday, September 29, 2024
I have good memories of times spent with Mary Frances during our Harrison High School years.
She was a sweet friend and will be missed.
Elie Berbari, MD
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Dear Caroline,
From reading about your mother’s remarkable life, it’s clear she was a woman of immense talent, strength, and warmth—qualities that have undoubtedly shaped the wonderful person you are. Her passion for music, flying, and her unwavering faith are truly inspiring, and I’m sure her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched, including yours.
I’ve always admired your hard work and dedication, and I can only imagine how proud your mother must have been of all you’ve achieved. Please know that my thoughts are with you, and if there is anything you need, whether now or in the coming weeks, I am here for you.
Wishing you peace, comfort, and strength in the days ahead.
Elie Berbari
Alona Alexander
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Mike: So sorry to hear of the passing of your sister. Peace to you.