Martha Jean (Mardy) Buckridge

Martha (Mardy) Jean Ingels Buckridge, 93, was welcomed home February 25, 2025, by her loving family– in what we know was one heck of an Ingels Family Reunion with In-Laws (or as they called themselves-Out-Laws) included! 

Mardy was born September 17, 1931, in Hopkins, MO the daughter and youngest of seven children born to William (Bill) H. Ingels and Thelma Orme Ingels, who both preceded her in death, as did all of her brothers/sisters, whom she loved dearly and was so close to. 

Mardy married the love of her life, Richard (Dick/Buck) Buckridge June 2, 1953. They had 64 amazing years together before Buck passed July 22, 2017. Mardy is survived by her children Cindy Buckridge and husband, Robert Eklund of Norton Shores, MI and son Dave Buckridge and wife Symantha of Moultrie, GA. She was also the proud “Nonee” to Matt (Jaimee); Brad (Keli); Lacey and Brett plus many nieces and nephews. 

Mardy attended elementary school in Hopkins and Horace Mann in Maryville and graduated from Maryville High in 1949. A 1953 Bachelor of Science in Education graduate of Northwest Missouri State University Mardy began an elementary school teaching career that included schools in Pendleton, CA; Shenandoah, IA, Independence, MO and Maryville R-II School District from which she retired in 1991. 

She was an avid golfer and many summers were spent at the Maryville CC or on the road with her fellow women golfers playing tournaments around the region. Her memberships included the Ladies Golf Association, First Methodist Church in Maryville, Missouri State Teachers Association and Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. 

Mardy always saw the positive side of things and even when things might seem darkest she was always a bright light. Her sense of humor was well known at Eugene Field, where her fellow teachers would regularly find copies of jokes in their mailboxes–and knew who put them there. Years after she retired she was still considered a legend due to some of her antics! As the youngest of 7 she always said she was spoiled, but she also learned early on to speak up and stand her ground. She was an equal partner with Buck and both were wonderful role models for their children and grandchildren.

The family would like to send special thanks to Kim Treese, DON and the very caring staff at Oak Pointe where Mardy made her home the last two plus years and enjoyed loving care, laughter and friendship. Also appreciation for wonderful hospice care from Three Oaks, especially Lindsay and Alex. A great group of professionals who all made her so comfortable her last few months.

Mardy did not want a funeral, but would have loved the thought that those who knew her might toast her with a “scotch and water along with some popcorn”-- preferably at 4 p.m. Should you like to contribute to her memory Mardy was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church and Shriners for Children also held a special place in her heart. 

Mardy has been cremated under the care of the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

                                                                      Cheers Mom/Nonee/Mardy–you are missed!!!!