Mary Ellen Underwood passed from this life on Sunday, November 12, 2023, while at her home at the age of ninety-five.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home. A Celebration of Mary's life will be held at a later date.

Mary was born on January 6, 1928, in Delaware County, OK, to Ellis Joe and Geneva VanHoose West. She grew up and attended Jay High School. Mary found her passion in hairdressing. She earned her certification in hair dressing and later started her own salon in Tulsa.

She married the love of her life, Willis Underwood in Tulsa, OK, and to this union one child was born, Ahniwake. Mary was a loving mother to Ahniwake and her stepsister Deanna Sue Underwood and always took care of her family.

Mary was active in Eastern Star, a lifelong Democrat and political activist. While living in Tulsa, Mary ran for Oklahoma State Representative.

Later in life, Mary moved to Cushing to be closer to her daughter and family. While in Cushing, Mary loved attending local churches and being with friends at the Cushing Senior Citizen's center.

Mary was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She will be missed by all who know her.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Ellis and Geneva West and her husband, Willis Underwood, and Deanna Sue Underwood.

Mary is survived her sister, Neda Jo Hughes, by her daughter, Ahniwake and husband, Dr. Peter Lafon of Cushing; two grandchildren, Peter Lafon of Oklahoma City and Alexandria Lafon of New York City, New York and Deanna Sue Underwoods children Kevin Bower, Denise Reid, and Wesley Bower and their children.

Condolences may be sent to the family via an online guestbook at www.palmermarlerfh.com.