Mary Christine Jennings, 69 of Clark passed away Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at the Columbia Manor Care Center.

Family and friends are invited to Chris’ Life Celebration 11:00 AM Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home in Centralia, with burial to follow in Mt. Horeb Cemetery in Sturgeon.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service Saturday at the funeral home.

Chris was born on April 17, 1957, in Illinois the daughter of Ellis Franklin and Mary Florence (Carr) Huskey.

Chris earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and devoted many years of her life to the teaching profession. A passionate and dedicated educator, she taught Family and Consumer Sciences at Higbee, Harrisburg, and Hickman High School, where she shared her knowledge, encouraged her students, and made a lasting impact on the lives of those she taught. Teaching was more than a career for Chris; it was a calling that allowed her to nurture, guide, and inspire others.

Chris married Gary Jennings on June 9, 1979, at Shelter Gardens (formerly MFA Gardens) in Columbia. Gary survives her.

Along with her husband Gary, Chris is survive by her sons, Matthew Jennings and wife Katy of Missouri, Marcus Jennings and wife Kaitlin of Virginia; grandson Brody Jennings; siblings, Mike Huskey and wife Bunny, Paul Huskey and wife Lisa; brothers-in-law, Neal Jennings and wife Becky, Terry Jennings and wife Cheryl, sister-in-law, Karlene Gruber; many nieces and nephews; and dear friend, Di Hirt.

Chris was a talented seamstress who lovingly created clothing for her family and costumes for school plays. She was also an accomplished quilter, crafting many beautiful quilts to be treasured for years to come. Chris found great joy in cooking and baking, sharing her love through the meals and treats she prepared for her family and students alike. She loved gardening and canning, and she especially enjoyed sneaking a fresh tomato straight from the garden. She also loved walking around the farm with her dog, Max, who was her constant companion and devoted protector.

Chris’ kindness and concern for those she loved never wavered. She also had a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit that could bring a smile to those around her.

Chris loved going to the movies, especially when she could share the experience with her grandson, nieces, and nephews. She delighted in taking them to see the latest releases and creating special memories together.

After retiring from teaching, Chris continued her commitment to serving others by working at the MU Extension office, where she dedicated another ten years of her life.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Friends of Mt. Horeb, and may be sent in care of Fenton-Kendrick Funeral Home 104 S. Collier St. Centralia, MO 65240.