Mary Clairece (Ball) Ludtke, 87, of Cushing, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, in Cushing. She was born on January 5, 1939, in Agra, Oklahoma, to the late Thomas Claire and Lola Faye Ball.

Mary spent her early childhood in Worland, Wyoming, where she attended school until the age of eight before returning to Agra, Oklahoma. She grew up with a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and simple joys that remained with her throughout her life.

On February 23, 1957, Mary married the love of her life, Robert LeRoy Ludtke, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Together they built a loving home and were blessed with four children: Tammy, Terry, Tracy, and Timmy.

Mary found great joy in sewing and crocheting, creating countless handmade treasures for those she loved. She never started a day without her coffee and looked forward to sharing conversations over a warm cup. Family was the center of her life, and she especially cherished time spent with her parents, children, and grandchildren. Mary never knew a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome. She loved visiting with people wherever she went and enjoyed getting in the car to travel, often with no particular destination in mind—simply enjoying the journey and the company along the way.

She is survived by her children, Tammy Spracklen and husband, Paul, of Afton, Wyoming; Tracy Schifferns of Cushing, Oklahoma; and Timmy Ludtke and wife, Merbie, of Cushing, Oklahoma. She is also survived by her sister, Linda McPike of Oregon; her brother, Michael Ray Ball and wife, Pokey, of Agra, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren, Charles Spracklen, Chad Spracklen, Robert LeRoy Ludtke II, Justin Ludtke, Nathan Ludtke, Joshua Ludtke, Zeb Ludtke, and T.J. Ludtke; numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many other cherished family members and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert LeRoy Ludtke; her son, Terry Lee Ludtke; and her grandson, Robert Schifferns; her brother Thomas Claire Ball and her sister Elner Becker.

Mary will be remembered for her warm smile, kind heart, welcoming spirit, and unwavering love for her family. Her home was always open, her coffee was always ready, and her conversations left lasting memories with everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love, generosity, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the Osage Cemetery in Agra, OK.