Mary Jane Tuthill-Grant

Mary Jane Tuthill-Grant, born October 18, 1961, in Grants, New Mexico, to Booth and Alice Marie Tuthill, passed away Saturday morning, February 14, at Mercy Hospital. Mary grew up in Grants and graduated from Grants High School in May 1979. In the early 1980s, she moved to the Four States area, where she met Edward “Ed” Grant Sr. at the Quapaw Powwow in 1982. They married in the summer of 1984 in the backyard of his parents’ home in Capaldo, Kansas. Together they had four children: Candace, Edward Jr., Jessica, and Rebekah. After ten years of marriage, Mary and Ed divorced, and Mary never remarried. She devoted her life to raising her children with unwavering love, faith, and determination. A woman of deep faith and strong purpose, she always strived to give her children the best life she could. Mary studied nursing at Pittsburg State University but ultimately chose a career serving individuals with mental disabilities, a role she fulfilled with compassion for many years. When Downstream Casino Resort opened, Mary joined the staff before opening day, beginning in EDR. She later worked in surveillance, served as a Quapaw tribal member liaison, and finished her career as a PBX operator, where she remained a dedicated employee until becoming disabled in 2023. Proud of her Native heritage, Mary attended as many Quapaw powwows, Crawfish family gatherings, and dinners as she could. These traditions brought her joy and a strong sense of connection. She loved her family deeply and later helped care for her grandchildren. She also cherished her friendships and, as everyone knew, always kept her beloved fur babies close to her heart. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Booth and Alice Marie Tuthill; her brothers, Thomas “Tom” Tuthill and Booth Tuthill; her sisters, Nancy Tuthill and Judith Tuthill-Bodo; her nephew, Thomas Tuthill; and her grandson, Tanner Ashbaugh. She is survived by her brother, Harry Tuthill; her children, Candace Grant, Edward Grant Jr., Jessica Grant, and Rebekah Grant; and her grandchildren, Cassie "Jordan" Grant, Chris Williams, Matthew Williams Jr., Nathan, Lilly, Tristan Ashbaugh, and Tyler Ashbaugh. Mary’s life was defined by love, resilience, and devotion. She leaves behind a legacy of strength and family that will continue to guide those who loved her. Her spirit goes forward, carried by the gratitude and love of her children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. The family appreciates all prayers, love, and support during this time. There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at the Quapaw Nation Community Building on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with Mr. Everett Bandy leading the rites. Services are under the care of Brown-Winters Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Miami. Mary's favorite color was purple; the family asks that everyone wear something purple in memory of Mary. Friends and family may send the family notes of encouragement by viewing Mrs. Grant’s Tribute Page at www.brown-winters.com.

Mary Jane Tuthill-Grant

October 18, 1961 - February 14, 2026