Mary Ankrom was born on September 18, 1931, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to IV and Elnora (Stewart) Carreathers. Mary's journey was marked by resilience and compassion.

After graduating from Muskogee Manual Training High School in 1950, Mary embarked on a fulfilling career as a machinist at Coburn Optical, where she dedicated over 20 years of service. Her unwavering commitment to her work was matched only by her dedication to her faith and community. Active in St. Joseph Catholic Church, she found joy in connecting with her community and fostering fellowship.

Mary's involvement in Toastmasters earned her numerous awards and accolades, reflecting her commitment to personal growth and communication. In addition, her generous spirit led her to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, where she passionately contributed to building homes for those in need throughout the Muskogee area.

As a proud military wife, Mary embraced the joys of life on various military bases across the globe, including Japan and Germany. Throughout her husband’s tours of duty, she embodied devotion to her family, creating a nurturing environment regardless of their location. She frequently lived in many states across the United States as well. Her heart always found its way back to Muskogee, reinforcing her deep roots in her hometown.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved spouses, Thurso Hinton and John Ankrom; her parents; her brother, Otis Carreathers; her sisters, Darlene Stell, Betty Raye McJunkins, Rebecca Jordan, and Catherine Grayson; her grandsons, Jason Hinton and Aaron Watts; and her great-granddaughter, Gabriella Couch.

She is survived by her son, Dean P. Hinton (Linda); daughters, LaNita Birdow and Bernadetta Hinton; and stepdaughters, Heather Gray and Melissa Reid. A cherished grandmother, she leaves behind Alisha Birdow, Justin Birdow (Zena), Adam C. Hinton, Matthew S. Hinton (Sara), Brandon Smith, Byron Smith, Cody Reid (Kaylyn), Dalton Reid (Morgan), Chris Watts, Jessie Watts, and Sierra Greenwalt. She was also a beloved great-grandmother to Elijah Birdow, Legend Birdow, Chosen Birdow, Isaac Hinton, Emmett Hinton, Scott Reid, and Raylee Ledoux.

Mary’s legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and warmth. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Ms. Mary Ankrom, after 94 years with us, dozed into Eternity on Sunday morning, July 19, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma with her loving family near her side.

You may visit Ms. Ankrom, as she slumbers in sweet repose in the The People's Chapel of the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc., of Muskogee on Friday, July 24, 2026 between the hours of 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Her funeral mass will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 25, 2026 in the St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Burial will follow the service in Green Hill Cemetery in Muskogee, Oklahoma.

You may order flowers: (918)687-7574 lakelandflorist.com