Mary Ellen Nichols

Mary Ellen Nichols, 80, of Harrisonville, was born November 19, 1945, in Kansas City, the daughter of Ivan L. and Margaret E. (Ketchum) Oesch. She departed this life Monday, February 2, 2026, at Crown Care Center in Harrisonville.

Mary Ellen grew up in East Lynne and graduated from Harrisonville High School.

On August 30, 1963, she was united in marriage to Theodore James "Jim" Nichols in East Lynne. He preceded her in death on July 29, 2003.

Mary Ellen was employed as a business officer manager for the Research Psychiatric Center and later for Belton Regional Hospital. She was a member of the Strasburg Baptist Church and A 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star - Ivy Leaf Chapter #215 of Pleasant Hill, where she had served as Worthy Matron. She enjoyed flower gardening, antiques, going for drives with Jim through the countryside, and traveling. She was a very active grandmother—frequently attending school sports and activities, she was known for spoiling them, and spent as much time as possible with them.

Mary Ellen was also preceded in death by her parents and her sons-in-law, Scott Bolinger and Kerry Murray.

She is survived by her children, Diane Bolinger, Jim (and Lisa) Nichols, and Rachael Murray, all of Harrisonville; five grandchildren, Jessica (and Cole) Eastwood, Jacob Murray, Austin (and Ali) Murray, Tanner (and Ruth) Murray, and Zach (and Emily) Bolinger; six great grandchildren, Asher, Hadley, Henry Scott, Eden and two expected soon; other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the funeral home.

Private family graveside services will be held in the Clear Fork Cemetery on Friday, February 13, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Clear Fork Cemetery and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.StanleyEdenburn.com

Arrangements: Stanley-Edenburn Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550.