Mary Kay Stearly

"In Loving Memory of Mary Kay Stearly (Grisham)

On the morning of February 5, 2026, the world lost a truly beautiful soul. Mary Kay Stearly (Grisham) passed away peacefully with her daughter by her side. She remained strong and comfortable until the very end.

Mary was born on February 26, 1962, in Merrill, Wisconsin, to Clarence Grisham and Diane Kromholz. As part of an Army family, Mary and her siblings, Julie Stangl, Charles Grisham, and Jim Grisham, spent their early years traveling the world, creating lifelong memories shaped by adventure, resilience, and togetherness.

Mary followed her calling into nursing, graduating from nursing school and earning her Registered Nurse (RN) credentials. She dedicated her professional life to serving as an OB delivery nurse, where she helped bring countless babies safely into the world. Her commitment to the field and the families she supported was unwavering, and her compassion made a lasting impact on those she cared for.

While Mary deeply loved her profession, nothing brought her more joy than her own children, Kristina Plouff and Joseph Stearly. She often expressed that the greatest gift of her life was her grandson, Jace Plouff, whose presence filled her days with happiness and love.

Before Mary left the earth to reunite with her daughter Elizabeth in Heaven, she blessed all those around her and spent her final weeks surrounded by family. She enjoyed navigating London with her son and later returned to Minnesota to carry out “Grandmo-Camp,” a tradition reflecting the joy, love, and excitement she derived from being a grandmother.

Mary was known for her generous heart and vibrant spirit. She had a deep love for her dogs, arts and crafting, football (especially the Vikings), nature, music, and hosting gatherings filled with laughter. She found beauty in the smallest treasures, collecting shells, rock hunting, and quietly watching wildlife. Mary found joy in the everyday wonders of the world and gave her whole heart to others, leaving a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at noon on Friday, August 21, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Center City, Minnesota. For details, please reach out to kstearly24@gmail.com.

Until we meet again among the stars, you will live on forever young. "