Mary Ann Markham, of Nixa, Missouri, departed this life on Thursday, January 26th, 2023 at the age of 90 years, 2 months, and 4 days in Springfield, Missouri. She was born on Tuesday, November 22, 1932 in Springfield, Missouri to George Lawrence Winegardener and Helen Elizabeth Reynolds Winegardener.

Mary spent her youth attending Jarrett Junior High School and was a 1950 graduate of Central High School. On March 12th, 1950 she was married to her husband, C. Gene Fugitt in Branson, Missouri. During their 30 years together they added two sons, Rick Lee Fugitt, Ronnie George Fugitt and a special dog Peppy. In 1960, Mary Ann, who was affectionately known as Mammaw to all that knew her, moved with her family to Kansas City, Missouri, where they operated Snow's BBQ Restaurant. She also spent several years working for one of the area doctor's offices before they returned to the Springfield area in 1961. After a short break, she continued her clerical work with Dr. Turner in his office from 1963 to 1990. After the passing of her husband, Gene, Mary Ann was united in marriage to her longtime friend, Ralph W. Markham on June 2, 1982 and spent the next 32 years residing in Nixa, Missouri. During the years of 1983-1986, she spent her time running the Bingo Game at the VFW in Climax Springs where she was known for her pies that would sell out minutes after the doors opened. Mammaw was an avid traveler whether it was by plane or car. She loved to make memories with her family while traveling to Europe, the Caribbean and around the United States. She spent much of her retirement vacationing in Florida with her son, Rick and his wife, Tammy along with her grandbabies. Her goal was to spend enough time on the beach that she glowed a deep brown. She also loved to comb the beach looking for beautiful and unique seashells. Her Sundays were spent with her son, Ron and his wife, Stacy and searching for special treasures at local flea markets or craft fairs. However, her favorite past time though was spent in her gardens amongst her flowers. She not only had a green thumb, but all her fingers were green. When she wasn't in the garden, you could find her in the kitchen baking up something tasty or making beautiful quilts to keep her loved ones warm. The family would like to express a special thank you to Sandra Ellis with Home Instead for the wonderful, compassionate care that she gave to Mammaw. The time that you spent with her filled her days with laughter and joy that has been appreciated by her loved ones. And to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Birch Pointe Care Facility for their kindness and generous help during her stay. The care that she received from you and your team allowed her family to rest easier knowing that she was protected and loved as if she were your very own mother.

Mammaw was proceeded in death by her parents, her stepmother Mildred Winegardener, her first husband C. Gene Fugitt, her second husband Ralph W. Markham and a special aunt Pearl Rueter.

She is survived by her two sons Rick Fugitt (wife Tammy) of Springfield, Missouri and Ron Fugitt (wife Stacy) of Springfield, Missouri, two grandchildren Tyler Fugitt (wife Caroline) of Jacksonville, Florida and Lacey Constantine (Husband Jake) of Tallahassee, Florida, three great-granddaughters Sophia, Stella, and Libby along with a great-grandson who's on the way.

A visitation will be held from 10-11 AM on Saturday, February 11th, 2023 at the Klinger-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte, 4500 South Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65804 with a Celebration of Life to follow at 11 AM. With Mamaw's love of all things lovely, beautiful flowers are welcomed, but in lieu of those flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to Phoenix Home Health Care & Hospice, 3033 South Kansas Expressway, Springfield, Missouri 65807. Online condolences can be made at www.klingnerfunerlahome.com