Mary Elizabeth Tinkler Copeland Elliott, 80, of Midland, Texas, passed away April 5, 2022, at her home, and went to be with her Lord and Savior in Heaven.

Visitation was held on April 7, 2022, at Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home. Graveside service was April 8, 2022, at Serenity Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Both are located in Midland.

Mary was born Aug. 8, 1941, in Fort Stockton, Texas, to Emerson “Tink” Tinkler and Effie Mae Courtney Tinkler.

Mary grew up on a ranch west of Fort Stockton. She was very proud of the life she lived there.  She attended Fort Stockton schools, and loved attending class reunions and keeping in touch with classmates.

Mary’s first marriage gave her two children, Max Copeland and wife Trisha of Abilene, Texas, and Karen Copeland Pruitt and husband Mike, of Midland. They, in turn, gave Meme four grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. They are Bryce Pruitt and wife Jamie and their four children; Michaela Pruitt Williamson and husband Stephen and their three children; and Logan Pruitt, all of Midland; Chelsea Copeland Bowen and husband Kahlil and their two children of Aledo, Texas.  

Her second marriage gave her two more children, Joy Elliott Dowling and husband Chris of Tampa, Fla., their three children; and Allan Elliott and wife Julie and his three children.

Mom had such talent! Oil painter, cake decorator, excellent seamstress, and no fear of any power tool. Her eye for antiques and displaying them was amazing. The way she loved, her kindness, wisdom, and generosity were the most beautiful talents of all.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Jim Tinkler of Fort Stockton (Jim passed way 48 hours before Mary); and an infant grandchild.

She is survived by all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren who love and miss her tremendously. Also surviving her is her sweetheart Rudy Smetak of Fort Stockton.

Her family would like to express its gratitude to her caregivers, especially Katrina Wilson who loves and cared for our mom so well. Also to Hospice of Midland for so much support, kindness, and compassion, especially Kayla, Sheila, and Regina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Midland, 911 West Texas Avenue, Midland, TX 79701.

Arrangements were under the direction of Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home and Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at npwelch.com.