Mary K. Billups, 82, of Viola, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, at Ascension Via Christi St. Teresa, Wichita.

Mary was born Feb. 14, 1942, at Severy, Kan., to Albert McQueen Ambler and Cynthia Bernice (Sexton) Ambler. She grew up in the Severy community and attended Severy public schools.

She was united in marriage to James Franklin Billups on Aug. 18, 1957, in her parents’ home at Severy, and to this union three children were born: Edward in 1958, James in 1960 and Belinda in 1963. The family moved from Wichita to Viola on Aug. 19, 1965.

Mary worked in food service at Terrace Gardens in Wichita, Spring View Manor in Conway Springs, Blasi Daycare in Schulte, and ultimately at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Wichita.

Mary was an active member of the Viola United Presbyterian Church, Viola. She was a past Worthy Matron of Dorcas Chapter #157 Order of Eastern Star, Conway Springs, and current member of Ninnescah Chapter #423 OES, Clearwater.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Merle Ambler; two sisters, Evelyn Townsley and Charlotte Felter; and one great-granddaughter, Talia Weaver.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Billups; two sons, Edward Billups and wife Sharon of Conway Springs, and James Billups and wife Laura of Wichita; one daughter, Belinda DeLaGarza and husband Terry of Wichita; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and a number of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, with the family present from 5-6 p.m. at Ebersole Mortuary, Conway Springs. Funeral service will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Viola United Presbyterian Church with Pastor Scott Randle officiating. Interment will be in Viola Cemetery.

Ebersole Mortuary, Conway Springs, is in charge of arrangements. Online guest book and condolences are available at www.ebersolemortuary.com.

A memorial has been established with the Viola United Presbyterian Church, Viola.