Mary Anne O'Donnell

Celebrating the Life of Mary Anne O’Donnell

March 10, 1931 – March 14, 2026

Mary Anne (Kearns) O’Donnell, age 95, was a woman defined by kindness, devotion, and a deep, abiding love for her family. Though she has left this world, her presence lives on — in every shared meal, every burst of laughter, and every cherished memory she so generously gave to those around her.

Born in Seattle, Washington, Mary Anne passed away peacefully at home in Milton, Washington, on March 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of her children and grandchildren. Her passing was gentle, and her life was full.

We find comfort knowing she is now reunited with her beloved husband of nearly 70 years, Terrence “Terry” O’Donnell. When asked recently what her perfect day in heaven would be, she simply said, “Spending time with Terry, walking the golf course together and just being with him.” It is a beautiful image — and one we hold close.

Mary Anne’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Kevin O’Donnell, Maureen Murphy, Katie Walker, Michael O’Donnell, Bridget O’Donnell, and Molly Bissett. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Sabrina O’Donnell; Sarah Motsenbocker, Carl Nygaard, and Megan Murphy; Whitney, Madison, and Hailey Walker; Josh and Jacob O’Donnell; Amanda O’Donnell; and Evan, Ryan, John, and Kyle Bissett. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Collin and Claire Motsenbocker; Mark, Leo, and Alice Nygaard; Waverly Walker; Leia Hibbard; and Vance O’Donnell.

She is also survived by her siblings Phil, Richard, and Terry Kearns, along with many beloved nieces and nephews who adored her as much as she adored them.

A funeral Mass and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 11, at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Fife, Washington, where she was a devout member for many years. The gathering will begin with a Rosary at 10:30. The Eulogy will begin at 10:45 a.m. followed by Mass and a luncheon to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Mary Anne's memory to Catholic Community Services of Western Washington at https://ccsww.org/donate-ccsww/

Mary Anne was the sixth of twelve children born to Kathleen and Richard Kearns. She treasured growing up in a large, lively family and carried that love of togetherness throughout her life. She attended St. Anne’s Catholic School, graduated from Holy Names Academy (Class of 1949), and later attended Seattle University.

She met Terry, the love of her life, while she was a sophomore in high school. Their love story began young and endured a lifetime. They married in 1952 and built a beautiful life together, raising six children and modeling what a respectful, loving partnership truly looks like.

Mary Anne fondly remembered her first jobs as a teenager at the Bon Marche and the Virginia Mason diet kitchen. After attending Seattle University for one year, she did secretarial work for the Seattle PI and then Boeing. Once all of the six children were in school, she returned to employment at the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and later enjoyed a fulfilling career at Boeing as an Assistant Buyer. She took pride in her work and valued the relationships she built along the way.

Outside of work, Mary Anne found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life. She loved spending time with Terry — walking the golf course, traveling, and cheering on their children and grandchildren at countless sporting events and band concerts. That same enthusiasm extended to her grandchildren, whose games, performances, and milestones she attended with unwavering support and pride.

She and Terry made their home in Federal Way for over 60 years, creating a place filled with warmth, laughter, and love. In 2016, they moved a short distance to The Meridian at Stonecreek Retirement Community, where she continued to build friendships and remain close to family.

Mary Anne’s life was a testament to love in action. She showed up — for her husband, her children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren — again and again, with patience, generosity, and a full heart. She constantly demonstrated a positive attitude — her glass was always more than half full — and she never failed to put the needs of others above her own. She was a true inspiration in her daily expressions of how thankful she was to be so blessed throughout her life.

Thank you, Mom, for showing us what love looks like. Thank you for loving Dad so deeply, and for giving each of us your unwavering support, guidance, and care. Your legacy lives on in all of us, and we will carry your love forward every day.