Mary Lu Kilburn

Mary Lu Kilburn, 91, passed away Wednesday, September 2, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri. She was born on June 2, 1935, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Kenneth and Lucille (Woodward) Payne.  

Mary Lu enjoyed many things throughout her life. She loved birdwatching, taking care of her flowers, crafting, puzzling, traveling, and dancing. She was also known as a bit of a “snake wrangler,” never afraid to take care of whatever needed tending around the house. Mary Lu was a big fan of Tom Selleck and enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought her happiness. Above all, Mary Lu loved and adored her family most of all.

Mary Lu is survived by her daughter, Luan Killman and husband Mike; 16 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; a handful of great-great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Brenda Snider; nieces, nephews, other family and many friends.

Mary Lu is preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Lucille Payne; husband of 46 years, Max Kilburn; sons, Raymond Snider and John S. Snider; and brother, Kenny Payne.

Visitation will be 5 -7 p.m., Friday, September 11, 2026, at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove, with burial to follow at Ash Grove Cemetery.