Mary Kay Shaughnessy

Mary Kay Shaughnessy, 79, of Ottawa, KS, passed away Sunday, July 10, 2016. She was born July 22, 1936 at Westphalia, KS, the daughter of Laurence Mark and Margaret Euleta (Thompson) Shaughnessy. Kay graduated from Ottawa High School in 1954 and then attended the University of Kansas, graduating with a degree in Physical Therapy in 1958. She worked at St. Joseph's Hospital and Rehabilitation Center in Wichita, attaining the position of Chief of the Physical Therapy Department. Miss Shaughnessy joined the US Navy in 1963. She served at several naval hospitals around the country and in Japan. She was head of the Physical Therapy departments at most of her assignments. Captain Shaughnessy was selected as an Outstanding Young Woman of America in 1968. She earned a Master's degree from Ohio State University in 1975. She received the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and many other awards. She was featured in the Pulitzer Prize award-winning book, Fortunate Son, written by Viet Nam War veteran Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Miss Shaughnessy has been guest speaker for numerous clubs and organizations. Since her retirement from the US Navy in 1987, Kay has made her home in Ottawa. She was inducted to the Ottawa High School Wall of Honor on October 10, 1997. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sister, Linda Huffman of Oakland, California and a brother, Mike Shaughnessy and his wife Catherine of Kansas City, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 15, 2016 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ottawa. The Rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m., followed by a visitation from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 14, 2016 at Lamb-Roberts Funeral Home, Ottawa. The family suggest memorial contribution be made to; Sacred Heart Catholic Church and send c/o Lamb Roberts Funeral Home; PO Box 14; Ottawa, KS 66067. Online condolences may be shared at www.lamb-roberts.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mary Kay Shaughnessy please visit our Sympathy Store.

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