Mary Kathryn Terpening

Mary Kathryn Terpening 78, of Forsyth, Missouri, passed peacefully April 30, 2026 at home with her family by her side.  She was born on March 19, 1948, in Harrison, Arkansas to Hurl and Frances (Parker) Trigg.

Mary attended and graduated  from high school at Alpena, Arkansas. She later attended and graduated from College of the Ozarks with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. Mary took her education further by attending SMU and graduating with a master’s degree.

Mary married the love of her life, Floyd Terpening, on March 11, 1968, in Green Forest, Arkansas. To this union they were blessed with one son.  Floyd and Mary moved and settled in Forsyth.

In her working days, Mary was the secretary to Dr. Clark at College of the Ozarks. After working for Dr. Clark, Mary taught at Forsyth public schools for thirty-seven years as a 1st grade elementary teacher. She retired 19 years ago. She enjoyed the great outdoors attending her flower gardens. Mary also enjoyed scrapbooking and traveling, especially a trip she made to Africa.

She was proceeded in death by her mother, Frances (Parker) Trigg.

Mary is survived by her loving husband Floyd, son Scott Terpening (Melonie) of Harrison, Arkansas, brother Richard Trigg (Helen) of Kimberling City, Missouri, sister Frances Gurley (Roy) of Flagstaff, Arizona, one grandchild and two great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Forsyth Church of Christ, Forsyth, Missouri, on Saturday,  May 16, 2026, at 1 pm. Burial will be at Snapp Cemetery, Forsyth, Missouri at a later date.

Arrangements are under direction of Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel, Forsyth, Missouri

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Kathryn Terpening, please visit our floral store.