Mary Ellen Young

Mary Ellen Young, 95, of Sedalia, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at EW Thompson Health and Rehab.

She was born on September 25, 1929, in Roseland, Missouri, the daughter of Hershel Francis and Lucille Belle (Wood) Parks.

On February 1, 1948, in Sedalia, she was united in marriage to Douglas Clay Young, who preceded her in death on August 21, 2018.

Mary Ellen accepted Jesus as her Savior at the age of 14 and was a devoted member of First Baptist Church, where she served faithfully in the nursery and taught children's Sunday School. Later in life, she attended Lane Avenue Baptist Church in Raytown. She was employed at Town and Country Shoes and Lamy’s.

Mary Ellen found joy in cooking and gardening and was known for her tireless energy, compassionate spirit, and strong work ethic. Above all, she loved being with her family. Her greatest happiness came from time spent with her grandchildren, who brought light to her life. She had a selfless heart and was always willing to sacrifice her own needs for those she loved.

Survivors include four children: Steve Young, of Sedalia; Connie Millbern (Stuart), of Blue Springs; Gary Young (Carla), of Sedalia; and Douglas K. Young (Linda), of Kingsville; eight grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Robbie Young, and three sisters: Frances Goldsmith, Dixie England, and Wilma Bishop.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m.

Casket bearers will be her grandsons: Steven Young, Jr., Jason Young, Chris Young, Matt Young, Ryan Young, and Lonnie Johnson. Honorary bearers will be Tony Freitas and Adam Sommer.

Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association or EW Thompson Health and Rehab.