Mary J. Ethington

Atkinson — Mary Jane Ethington, 79, of Atkinson, died Wednesday, May 28,, 2025 at the Good Samaritan Society in Atkinson.

A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill is in charge of the arrangements.

Mary was born, the youngest of three children, to Henry and Jane (Whiting) Fleek on May 23, 1946 in Chambers. She grew up near Chambers and attended school at Valley Center up until the eighth grade. She then attended high school in Chambers. While in high school, Mary enjoyed playing volleyball and she also was skilled on the accordion. Mary graduated with the class of 1964.

Mary met Edward Ethington on a blind date with some friends. They later married on June 8, 1964 in Lake Andes, SD. To this union, two sons were born Michael and Jess.  

Mary was a farm wife and helped on the family farm for several years before she got a job at the Kraft Cheese Factory in town. She later started working for IMAC in Orchard. Mary retired in the early 2010's.  

After retirement, Mary loved being home on the farm, gardening and raising flowers.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church until 1967 and became a member of the Presbyterian Church in Atkinson.

Mary loved being on the farm, enjoying all the animals, mainly the cats and dogs.

Mary is survived by her two sons Mike (Lori) Ethington and Jess (Natalie) Ethington, all of O'Neill, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, two brothers Edwin Fleek and Delbert (Kathy) Fleek, all of Chambers and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ed and one sister-in-law Janet Fleek.