Mary Kay's obituary
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary "Mary Kay" Luke on December 15, 2023. Born on May 18, 1947, Mary Kay lived a fulfilling and remarkable life. She is survived by her loving husband, Martin Luke, and was predeceased by her father, Walter Fink, and mother, Mary Louise Fink.
Mary Kay graduated in 1969 with a B.A. in Music from Bradley University, West Bradley Avenue, Peoria, IL. She later accomplished advanced education by completing her Masters in Counselling from Auburn University and achieving the rank of Lt. Col. in the United States Air Force. Her passion for academia was only surpassed by her dedication to kindness and her uncanny ability to remember details from the past.
A woman of diverse tastes, Mary Kay treasured various forms of art and entertainment. She loved the books Where the Crawdad's Sing and Leaving Home, and the music of Rascal Flatts and Lady A. Her favorite television shows were The Voice and America's Got Talent, while Love Actually and A Christmas Story were her preferred films. She was an avid supporter of the Tampa Bay Bucs and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Her favorite game was golf and she loved playing Mexican Train. Her favorite performance was Les Miserables.
Mary Kay had an adventurous spirit. She enjoyed reading, line dancing, and golfing. Her favorite vacation spots included Italy, Iceland, and Switzerland, while locally, she loved visiting Wallaces' Greenhouse in Homosassa, FL and Marks Prime in Ocala. She was deeply passionate about enjoying life and traveling. She took joy in every color, reflecting her vibrant personality.
Her legacy was rooted in kindness, love and thoughtfulness. Mary Kay had a unique talent for hosting special teas for friends in the most generous way. She was a warm person, a great listener and always prioritized the wellbeing of others above hers.
Mary Kay is deeply missed by her dog Muggles, her husband, and all who knew her. Her vibrant existence was indicative of a life well-lived and she leaves behind a deep void that can never be filled. We honor her memory and continue to find inspiration in the remarkable life she led.