Mary Kay (Bird) Bibb

Mary Kay Bibb loved Jesus and took every opportunity to tell others that she and Jesus loved them. Born and raised in Kansas she filled her home with sunflowers as a connection to that state.  Early in college she took summer classes at New Mexico Highlands University where the PE coach’s assistant got the courage to introduce himself during swim class. (His telling of that mentions that her swimsuit was red).  One year later they married and were partners through thick and thin for 61 years.  She married him as a smalltown music teacher, then happily accompanied him when the music teacher became an FBI agent.  She took their frequent moves and unpredictable schedule to stride.  Twice she gave birth less than two weeks after a move.

            She enjoyed singing, especially lullabies to her kids.  All of them inherited her habit of singing out loud, no matter what the setting, whatever song someone else’s comment made her think of.  She was a prolific seamstress and knitter and enjoyed making things for loved ones.  A memorable project was the six matching sweaters that made the appearance in one family portrait and a hilarious game of Charades.

            Her degree was in education and she taught for several years.  Mary Kay’s main occupations, though, were nurturing her husband and children, and repurposing other items other people would have thrown away.  She could see utility in anything.  Maybe this relates to the fact that she looked for beauty in all people she encountered.  She was sure it must be in there somewhere, because she knew that Jesus loved them.

            Mary Kay was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Melodee Kay Bibb; her parents, Bill and Eva Bird and siblings: Carol Hillers, Allen Bird, and Marie Bird.  She is survived by her husband Dave Bibb; her children Mary Beth and Bob Sevens, David T. Bibb III, Jim and Kristina Bibb, Melanie & B J Brooks; her sister and brother-in-law Jeannie and Larry Wade; 15 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren (with a few more on the way); many nieces and nephews; countless chosen family members and friends.

            Open casket visitation will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 from at Gonzales Funerals & Cremations, 2315 Hot Springs Blvd.  from1:00 to 4:00 pm. The funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the Victory Life Church, 259 Frontage Road 2137, Las Vegas, NM. By Pastor Paul Hesch  Attendees are encouraged to wear colorful clothing as that’s how Mary Kay thought everyone should dress.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Victory Life Church or the nonprofit organization of your choice.

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