Mary Langston

Mary Langston, 67, of Cape Girardeau died Sunday, June 20, 2021, surrounded by family at her home.

She was born Feb. 28, 1954, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, to Fenton Howard and Genevia Doublin Langston.

Mary was raised In Puxico, Missouri, and graduated from Puxico High School in 1972. She then attended Southeast Missouri State University, where she graduated with a bachelor of science in secondary education in 1975.

She and Don Beard were married in 1979 in Cape Girardeau, and they had two sons, Jason and Jeffrey Beard. Mary was a devoted mother and anyone around her knew how much she loved her boys. The bond that she shared with them was something so sacred and special to her.

In 2017 Mary retired as the coordinator of acquisitions at Kent Library at Southeast Missouri State University, where she worked for 41 years.

Mary was an expert gardener and was often the go-to person among family and friends for flower advice. She was also an avid reader and enjoyed learning about all things history. Her biggest passion though was her kids and her family. No matter what was going on in her life, she was always taking care of everyone around her.

Those that were lucky enough to have known Mary would tell you she was one of the strongest, kindest and most selfless people they'd ever met. Her smile, laugh and homemade banana cake could always light up a room!

Survivors include two sons, Jason Beard and Jeff (Charlsie Hethershaw) Beard of Cape Girardeau; brother, Howard (Debbie) Langston of De Soto, Missouri; three sisters, Linda (Vernon) Wamsley of St. Louis, Judy Richard of Puxico and Penny (Mike) Morrow of Wappapello, Missouri; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Gale Howard; and brother-in-law, Bill Richard.

Per Mary's request a traditional funeral service will not be held, but memorial contributions may be given to the Kidney Cancer Association or the Cape Girardeau Public Library.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.