Mary Ann Carlson

Mary Ann Carlson, 79, passed away on March 31, 2026, in Joplin. She was born on Sept. 3, 1946, in Arkansas City, Kan. to the union of Lieonel Jack and Esther Louise (Fear) Kemp, 

 She worked for many years as a housing manager for Bell Management. She also spent several years working for EFCO and Wells Aluminum. In addition, she served as a manager for Dollar General, worked as a tax preparer, and spent time as an over-the-road truck driver.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Thomas Carlson of Wentworth; her daughter, Tawnya Watkins and her husband, Michael, of Wentworth; her son, Walter Cunningham and his wife, Daniele, of  Little Rock, Ark.; her sister, Vicki Edwards and Lonnie of Frankfort, Kan.; and Pat Graham, her sister of the heart, of Monett. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by son, Steven Cunningham; granddaughter, Crystle Kimbler; brothers, Gary Kemp, William Kemp, and Jack Kemp; and sister, Viola Williams. 

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the home of her daughter. Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City.