Mary Kite

Mary Kite, 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, November 25,2025. She was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on May 18, 1942, to the late Wayne and Marie (née Martin) Bushman. Mary graduated from Central Catholic High School and, in 1975, made Danville, Indiana her cherished home, where she was an active member of Northview Christian Church. She loved the small-town warmth of Danville and embraced its community for more than five decades. 

Mary is survived by her children, Joseph (Montrea) Kite of Danville, IN, John (Brenda) Pierce of Pittsboro, IN, Jennifer Pierce of Wabash, IN, and Jeanne Chen (Jess) of Jamestown, IN; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and her sister, Ann (Michael) Wright of Columbia City, IN. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Michael Bushman. With hearts full of love and gratitude, the family celebrates the life of their beloved mother, a woman known for her boundless warmth, compassion, and zest for life. Mary had a remarkable gift for making others feel seen, cared for, and welcomed, and she carried that gift wherever she went. Time with family was Mary’s greatest joy. Whether gathered for a lively game night, shuffling cards with her competitive spark, or sharing stories that left everyone laughing, these moments were among her most treasured. Her laughter—full, warm, and contagious—was the soundtrack of so many cherished memories. Christmas was her favorite holiday, celebrated with family traditions, joy, and warmth, while Memorial Day ranked a close second, bringing together close friends to celebrate the annual traditions and excitement of the Indianapolis 500. 

Mary’s career was as colorful and meaningful as her life. She began as a Medical Assistant at Family Medical Center, later working with Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART), a role she loved for the opportunity to meet people from around the world and travel extensively. She later discovered a lasting love of flowers at Palmer Kelly Florist and most recently served as an Ambassador at Hendricks Regional Health, bringing comfort and support to patients and families. A lover of nature, Mary cherished summer evenings tending her yard, planting flowers, or simply relaxing on the patio, listening to birds sing and watching animals wander by. Even in later years, quiet moments outdoors brought her peace and joy.

 Above all, Mary will be remembered for her kindness, her smile, and the way she lit up every room. Her legacy of love, friendship, laughter, and compassion will forever live on in the hearts of those fortunate to know her. May her beautiful spirit continue to guide and inspire us all. 

The family will receive friends at Helton & Harris Funeral Home in Danville, IN, on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 11:00 am until the service at 1:00 pm. Mary will be laid to rest in Danville South Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the INDYCAR Benevolent Foundation (formerly Championship Auto Racing Auxiliary, “CARA”) or the Habit of the Heart Foundation in Hendricks County. Online condolences may be offered at www.heltonandharrisfuneralhomes.com.