With profound sorrow and yet deep admiration for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Mary Lou Kight, born on August 8, 1961, who departed this world peacefully on May 26, 2026, within the comforting walls of her beloved home. Surrounded by the warmth and love of her cherished family, Mary Lou’s departure leaves an indelible void in the hearts of all who knew her.

Mary Lou was a woman whose exuberance for life manifested in her daily acts of connection and care. She was a steadfast presence, a soul who would call or text each day to share a moment, a laugh, or a word of encouragement. Refusal or absence of response was never an option for her; she was known to appear unannounced at your doorstep, a testament to her fierce devotion to those she loved. On May 29, 1980, she married the love of her life William "Greg" Kight. They spent 46 wonderful years married; but she was lucky to date Greg for 5 years before they married. Fifty one years she devoted to the man she loved.

Her passions were as vibrant as her spirit. She delighted in time spent with her grandchildren, treasures of her heart that brightened her days. Often, Mary Lou would call her daughter-in-law, Ashlee, proposing a spontaneous car ride—not for mere transit, but to seize the simple joys of stepping out of the house to savor a meal and share companionship. Yard sales and fishing were pastimes she embraced with enthusiasm, reflecting a love for both adventure and the tranquility of nature. Among her favorite indulgences were the humble pleasures of a ham sandwich and ice cream, small yet profound joys she relished with genuine delight.

Mary Lou leaves behind a devoted family who will forever hold her memory close: her husband William "Greg" Kight, steadfast companion and confidant; her son, Jason Kight, and his wife Ashlee; and her daughter, Jessica Kight, each of whom were beneficiaries of her boundless love and unerring support. Her legacy blooms vividly through her grandchildren—Mariah Kight, Jonathon Sweeny, and Lainee Kight—and her great-granddaughter, Faith Lynn Shaw, who carry forward her vivacious spirit. Mary Lou’s familial roots run deep, with her father Charles Johnston, brothers Mark (Kay), Douglas, and Rodney Radcliff, alongside numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, each bearing the imprint of her kindness and strength.

This loving matriarch was preceded in death by those who paved her path before her: her mother Sally Miller Radcliff, stepmother Glenda Johnston, father Jack Radcliff, and brothers Kevin Radcliff and Eddie Johnston. Their memories stand as pillars in the foundation of Mary Lou’s life story.

Mary Lou Kight’s life was a radiant testament to love’s enduring power, to the beauty of daily acts of care, and to the joy found in simple pleasures. She embodied the very essence of connection, leaving her beloved family and friends with treasured memories and an everlasting example of compassion and vitality.

In mourning her departure, we also celebrate the exceptional grace with which she touched our lives, assuring that though her presence may be gone, her spirit and love endure eternally.

My mamaw….If I had to describe my mamaw in one word; it would be vibrant! I’ll never forget her infectious laughter or the way she cared for everyone in this building in her own way. I’ll never forget the memories I get to carry with me so I can replay them when I need a pickup from sadness. My favorite memory has to be her turning up the radio in the kitchen, while cooking a meal, and we’d dance with absolutely no care in the world.

I know she is up there trying to reach down and kick our butts and tell us to stop crying and she is okay! She would want my papaw to know she is okay and how much she truly loved and cared for him. She would want you to live for her; she knows it is hard and your other half is missing but she trusts you will find her in the next lifetime, but for now please live for her and your loving family.

I would like to share a bible verse that has been carrying me through this difficult time:

The Resting Meadows

The quiet hills have grown so still, The pasture green and deep, A gentle Shepard calls you now, To lay you down and sleep. No longer need you roam or stray, Through valleys steep and far, You rest beside the quiet streams, Beneath the morning star. The woolly clouds drift gently by, The meadow paths are clear, You’ve found the warm and peaceful fold, And know no further fear. Sleep softly in the endless grass, Where earthly cares are done, You are safely held forevermore, at setting of the sun.

And for the cherry on top: from Winnie the Pooh; he said how lucky am I to have someone that makes saying goodbye so hard. I Love you mamaw and I’ll find you again but for now I’ll look for you in the sunset, the starts, and the red birds and I hope you will visit our dreams.