It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Mary "Elaine" Kuykendall, 65 of Holden, Missouri; formerly of Centerview, Missouri. Elaine passed away tragically in a car accident Wednesday, April 12 ^th , 2023. Elaine was born on November 23rd, 1957, one of six children to Roland Hodges and Ruby Walker Hodges. She joined the Airforce after high school where she met and later married fellow airman Steven A. Kuykendall on August 12 ^th , 1976. They have 2 daughters Danielle Rae (Kuykendall) Clark, Aislinn Kuykendall, and son Jacob Kuykendall.

After leaving the Airforce to care for her family Elaine spent her 2nd career in healthcare as a certified nurse assistant and most recently a pharmacy technician at Lee's Summit Medical Center formerly Lee's Summit Hospital for the past 19 years. She is remembered as a very reliable and committed team member who was always focused on caring for patients and supporting the care team. She loved her family, her work, her animals, and bowling. She had a colorful personality and enjoyed celebrating holidays. She took great joy in sharing treats, decorations, and her homemade fudge at Christmas.

Survivors include her 3 children, a son-in law Brian Downey Clark, and grandson Dorian Grey Kuykendall.

Memorials may be sent to Wayside Waifs.

Following Cremation, no services are planned.