Mary Catherine Bartlett

Born July 15, 1946 to Jean and Dorothy Kirby McDonald, Mary Catherine McDonald Bartlett passed away on November 6, 2021. The oldest of five children, she inherited the great strength and sparkling eyes of preceding generations of our family and paved the way for her three sisters and one brother.

Mary Kay attended Sacred Heart School in Tacoma and graduated from St. Leo’s High School in June of 1964.

Mary Kay married Robert Walters on September 19, 1965 and gave birth to their son Charlie on February 5, 1970.

She loved reading from a very young age. As a young adult, she applied her passion for books through a career in the Library system. Mary Kay later earned her credentials as a Certified Nursing Assistant, dedicating her later years to caring for others.

Mary Kay was an oral historian and uncovered the mysteries of her genealogy—tracing her roots back through Ireland and Scotland. She found great joy in music (Neil Diamond was among her favorites) and literature (she was never without a mystery novel). Winnie the Pooh’s teachings on the love of humanity and Charlie Brown’s humble sweetness captured her heart and imagination. She held fast to a fierce love for her family and friends, and we never questioned where we stood. Mary Kay spoke her truth, remembered every birthday, gave the tightest bear hugs, and held her childhood friends close through her last years. She always found something to give.

Mary Kay was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Richard, and nephew Brendan.

She is survived by her son Charles Walters (Becca), granddaughter Brittany Allen, great granddaughter Makenna Medlock, sisters Margaret Petrie (John), Donna Boulanger (James), Karen Heric (Todd) and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.

Mary Kay’s family extends our thanks to Sharon and Joe, Manet, and Denzo at St. Anthony’s Adult Family Home, who cared for Mary Kay in her final days. In addition, we would like to thank Pam Roberts who was her loving caregiver and close friend during her final years.

Funeral Services directed by Gaffney Funeral Home will be held at St. Charles Boromeo Catholic Church, 7112 S. 12th St, Tacoma on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Mary Kay’s life to Catholic Community Services Pierce County are encouraged by calling 253-383-3697 or online at https://ccsww.org/donate-pierce-county/.

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