Mary Kingsford-Smith

Mary was born on Christmas Day, 1938 in Honolulu, the daughter of John and Mildred Marcroft. She died at home June 11, 2023 in Bellingham, Washington after a long illness, comprising both Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Because of her birthplace, her parents gave her a Hawaiian middle name: Ululani, which means “to grow in heavenly ways.” While she was still an infant, the family moved from Hawaii to the San Francisco Bay Area where she spent her childhood and teen years. After high school graduation (she was 2nd academically in a class of 500), she attended San Jose State University, majoring in biology. Before her senior year she suspended her studies to work for a few years for Hewlett-Packard in Palo Alto as they were developing international marketing.

After returning to college to finish her degree, she renewed a long-term friendship with Chuck, son of aviation pioneer Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith. Mary and Chuck were married in 1965 and then moved to Colorado. Three sons -- John, Stephen, and Peter -- were born from this union. Sadly, Peter died from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The family enjoyed many years in the beautiful foothills of Colorado and then moved to the beautiful north Puget Sound area of Washington.

Mary was blessed with intelligence, a keen sense of humor, and excellent writing skills. Her life also demonstrated generosity, empathy, and kindness. Her practice of hospitality was enhanced by her renowned skill in preparing delicious meals. Christian faith was central in her life, and so she was well-equipped for a special interest: organizing and leading Bible studies, especially for women. This and related interests and activities continued for most of her life.

Many people regarded her as an esteemed friend and most of these friendships were close and long-lasting.

She is survived by her husband Chuck, brother John Edward Marcroft, sons John and Steve, granddaughter Genevieve, and many other friends and family members.

Her family endorses this passage from Proverbs, chapter 31:
Her children arise and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many women do noble things,
But you surpass them all.”

A memorial service honoring both her life and her Savior will take place on Monday, July 17th at 3:30pm Bellingham’s Cordata Presbyterian Church.