Mary Kay Sampson

Mary Kay Sampson was born in Des Moines, IA on October 24, 1937 to Mildred and Wayne Peacock. She was joined by two siblings – Dennis Peacock of Des Moines, IA and Sally Adams of Salida, CO.

Mary Kay graduated from East High School and then went on to Grandview College for two years then attending Drake University and receiving her Bachelor’s degree. She was a beautiful singer in high school and was in many theatrical productions there.

After college, Mary Kay married and relocated to Bloomington, MN for two years. After a short marriage, Mary Kay was employed as a teacher of sixth, seventh, and eight graders at military bases overseas. She continued this career for 40 years, living in the Philippines, Spain, Turkey, and Ethiopia. I found many pictures of students that she taught with notes they wrote her at the end of a school year. You could tell that she was a much loved and respected teacher. She preferred to live among the citizens of these countries, learning the language and taking advantage of their culture.

After retirement, she returned to Des Moines, IA and enjoyed her hobbies of reading, mostly biographies, history, and politics. She loved animals, both domesticated and wild and had many books on both. She was proud to say that she voted in the last Presidential election. Because she was so well-read, she could converse with anyone on the credentials of many a politician.

Mary Kay is survived by her brother, Dennis and her sister Sally. Also remaining to mourn her loss is her best friend for 65 years, Patty Mondike, as well as many other friends that she had made over the years.

Mary Kay passed away on March 16, 2021. A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 22, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Print