Mary Jane Whitehurst

Mary Jane Whitehurst October 17, 1936 – April 27, 2025

Mary Jane Whitehurst passed away peacefully in Amarillo, Texas at the age of 88. Born on October 17, 1936, in Duncan, Oklahoma, Mary Jane grew up in Amarillo before moving to Clovis, New Mexico in high school. It was there, at just 16 years old, that she met the love of her life, Alvin "Al" Whitehurst. They married at 19 and spent 57 beautiful years together filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Al, her parents Russell and Helen Davidson, and her sister Jere Mitchell. Mary Jane is survived by her sister, Jeanie Collier of Scottsdale, AZ; her three children—Teri King (Chuck) of Amarillo, TX; Todd Whitehurst (Leslie) of Amarillo, TX; and Trudy Jones of Colorado Springs, CO. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Noah Jones, Annavi Jones, Addison Jones, Zachary Whitehurst, Gabriel Whitehurst, Mallory Henderson, and Libby Linker—and a great-grandmother to Luke Whitehurst, Madelyn Whitehurst, Judah Henderson, Lucy Jones, Logan Linker, and Maggie Linker.

Though some lovingly called her “Marty,” she was best known as Mary Jane—artist, teacher, mother, grandmother, and friend. She received her first paint set at age 12 and never stopped creating. Her love of art led her to teach more than 100 students over the years, with her last class held just a month before her passing. Her home was filled with the vibrant beauty of her work—landscapes, still life, portraits—all reflections of the joy and creativity that flowed from her heart.

Mary Jane was also a cancer survivor. Her resilience, grace, and unshakable faith carried her through with quiet strength. She lived her life with intention and joy, even in the face of hardship.

She had a deep and steady faith in God. She lived with generosity and a quick wit that brought laughter and comfort to those around her. She loved her family fiercely, gave freely of her time and talent, and brought warmth to every room she entered.

She will be missed more than words can say—and remembered with love by all who were lucky enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harrington Cancer and Health Foundation in her honor at www.hchfamarillo.org.

If you would like to give a gift by check, please make your check payable to:

Harrington Cancer and Health Foundation

1732 Hagy Blvd.

Amarillo, TX 79106