Marilyn Kay Thornton was born in Akron, Ohio on April 20, 1948 to her parents Iona Smith Thornton and Thomas Edward Thornton. She was the sixth of seven beautiful children.

Mary married the love of her life, Monty Hendrickson, on June 3, 1967 in Highgrove, California. Monty and Mary had three beautiful children together: Michael Eugene, born March 19, 1972; Amy Marie, born October 16, 1978; and Kathryn Ann (Katie), born May 29, 1980. 

The family built their home together on Cactus Street in Hesperia in 1979, where they have lived together for the past 43 years. 

Together, Mary and Monty have five beautiful grandchildren: Kaylie Nadine, born January 12, 2002 to Amy; Joshua Brian, born June 13, 2002 to Michael and Heather Jean Palmer; and Abigail Wei, born September 21, 2004; Hannah Renee, born May 18, 2006; and Bethany Joy, born October 20, 2009 to Katie and Matthew Brad Bodell.

Mary believed in the saving grace of Jesus Christ, having put her faith in Him since she was just a small child. She remained faithful to her faith in God, her church, and to her family throughout her entire lifetime. She was a two-time breast cancer survivor.

Mary's passing was sudden and tragic. She had been suffering with stomach aches and pains for about a month and was awaiting further medical treatment when her health rapidly declined over the course of only a few hours. The family remains unsure of the exact cause of her death, although an intestinal blockage was discovered that led to heart strain and eventual failure. 

Marilyn is survived by her husband Monty, her children and grandchildren, her brothers Thomas and David, and dozens of adoring nieces and nephews.