December 16, 2022

Mary Kay Wolford, longtime archdiocesan supporter and leader, dies at 88

Mary Catherine “Mary Kay” WolfordMary Catherine “Mary Kay” Wolford, a member of Holy Family Parish in New Albany, died on Dec. 5 at Baptist Health Floyd in New Albany. She was 88.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Dec. 9 at Holy Family Church in New Albany. Burial followed at St. Mary Cemetery in New Albany.

Born in Louisville, Ky., Wolford was educated in her home city, graduating from the former Loretta High School and earning a bachelor’s degree at Spalding University and a master’s degree at the University of Louisville.

She and her husband Carl, who survives, were married in 1955. They were founding members of Holy Family Parish. Wolford retired from the New Albany-Floyd County School System, serving many years as a teacher at St. Mary of the Knobs School in Floyd County.

Wolford showed her generosity in supporting for decades the ministry of the archdiocese throughout central and southern Indiana and providing leadership through several archdiocesan committees and initiatives, including the Catholic Community Foundation and St. Elizabeth

Catholic Charities in New Albany. She also was a supporter of Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad.

In 2016, the Wolfords received the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Award from the National Catholic Educational Association for their longtime support of Catholic schools.

In a video produced earlier this year by the archdiocesan Office of Stewardship and Development, Wolford reflected on the life of stewardship that she and Carl shared for 67 years.

“We have been blessed,” she said. “We don’t do it for that. But you certainly receive more than you give. You just have to try it and trust in the Lord. He takes care of you.”

Wolford is survived by Carl, her sister-in-law Trudy Wolford and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, 200 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad, IN 47577, or Holy Family Parish, 129 Daily Lane, New Albany, IN 47150. †

Local site Links: