Mary Sue (Snider) Whitney departed on her final voyage March 6, 2026. Her journey began May 28, 1941, in Abilene, Kansas, and she spent 84 years leaving an indelible mark on every person she encountered along the way. She attended Kansas State University and pledged Pi Beta Phi. She jumped right into student life with involvement in a multitude of university activities, including serving as President of her Pi Phi chapter. She graduated KSU with a degree in Secondary Education (Spanish and English). In 1963, she married another Kansas State graduate, Herb, and they spent the next 63 years collecting memories and traveling the world. Together they visited all seven continents and more than 80 countries. Some of her most cherished memories were made on trips with her grandchildren or traveling to see them. She maintained close ties to KSU, serving on the College of Education Development Council, the University Board of Trustees and was an avid fan of Wildcat football and basketball. Always a Wildcat, her favorite color was purple.

She worked professionally for Camp Fire, worked as a Spanish tutor and taught fourth grade in the Jenks school system, where she was selected as Teacher of the Year for Jenks East Elementary. After two decades of teaching, she retired in 1998 and quickly found fulfilling ways to spend her time in retirement. When she wasn't traveling, she could be found playing bridge, golf, Mah Jong or spending time at Grand Lake with family. Above all else, she treasured her three grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nina.

She was a long-time member of Asbury Church where she co-founded the Mothers Day Out program and co-directed the puppet ministry. She served as a Cub Scouts and Camp Fire leader, a child abuse prevention program volunteer, swimming instructor and Past President of Assistance League Tulsa, where she volunteered her time with Operation School Bell and Bargains Thrift Shop.

She is survived by her husband, Herb, children Eric (Mattie), Kevin (Tonia) and Melinda, three grandchildren, Bella, George and Elizabeth, brother Robert (Sherri), her nephew Brent and lots of extended family who also loved her. To honor Mary Sue's love for children and learning, please consider a donation to Assistance League Tulsa in lieu of flowers. Memorial services are set for Wednesday, March 18 at 11 a.m. at Asbury Church, Mason Chapel, 6767 S. Mingo Road, Tulsa. Those unable to attend in person may view the service live via asbury6767.online.church.

Bon voyage, Nina!