Mary Kay Rolling, age 64, of Milford, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13th, 2025, at Spencer Hospital in Spencer, Iowa, surrounded by family.
Mary Kay was born March 8th, 1961, at Spencer Hospital, to Wayne and Mary Krieger of Terril, Iowa, during a blizzard. Mary Kay entered the world as both a surprise and a miracle, six years after Wayne and Mary thought their family was complete.
She grew up on the family farm in Terril, where her fearless spirit took root early, famously falling off her horse at the age of two. Alternatively, she had a gentle energy, especially one in which animals were drawn to. She was known to those around her as an “animal whisperer.” She loved all animals, especially horses.
Mary Kay grew up with a love for hard work, family, and community. She carried an unmatched determination for life, a “get it done” kind of woman who never shied away from a challenge. She was known as a “doer.” Whether she was tackling a project, organizing a get-together, or helping someone in need, she always poured her heart and energy into everything she touched.
She graduated from Terril High School in 1979, and obtained her cosmetology education at Faust in Storm Lake. She also obtained a teaching certificate at UNI. She would go on to open her own hair salon, Headlines, which she owned and operated for almost 40 years.
She met her husband, Philip Rolling, while attending Terril High School. They married at the Little Brown Church on November 27, 1982. They had two boys, Dylan and Dan. She was active in the community, coaching youth sports and serving on the Milford City Council.
Those who knew her remember her as a force. She was direct, passionate, loyal, and deeply loving. She had a big personality and an even bigger heart. You could never find her sitting still for long; she was always looking to find purpose in creating, planning, and helping.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Philip Rolling; her two beloved sons and their wives; and her cherished grandchildren—Dylan and Samantha Rolling and their children Indica, Dez, Soli, and Vivvi of Spencer, Iowa, and Dan and Lindsey Rolling and son Jasper of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Her grandkids were the light of her life—and she theirs. She is also survived by her Aunt Linda Halquist Drucker; brother Tom and Allyn (wife) Krieger; sister Jayne and Jaime (husband) George, sister Kristine Larson; and many special nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Mary Krieger; grandson, Cash Rolling; nephew, Christopher George; and brother-in-law, Tim Larson.
Her life was one of purpose, perseverance, and profound love. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.
Arrangements under the care of Turner Jenness Funeral Home.
