PIERRE, SD – Mary Lou Puckett, 91, of Pierre, passed away January 8, 2025

Visitation: 5:00-7:00pm, Monday, January 13, 2025 at Feigum Funeral Home

Prayer Service: 7:00pm, Monday, January 13, 2025 at Feigum Funeral Home

Funeral Service: 10:30am, Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at New Life Church

Interment: Scotty Philip Cemetery

Mary Lou Newman Puckett passed away peacefully on January 8, 2025, at the age of 91, in Pierre, SD. Born on September 19, 1933, in Redfield, SD, she was the cherished third child of Katherine and Clayton Newman. Mary’s life was a testament to her strength, love, and dedication to her family and community.

Mary Lou was a proud graduate of Redfield High School, class of 1951, and her commitment to education was evident throughout her life. She served with distinction on the Stanley County School Board, contributing to the betterment of local education. Her professional life was marked by her roles as the manager of the Stanley County Fairgrounds, a bookkeeper and assistant office manager at R&W Excavating, and a successful independent contractor. Mary’s skilled hands wallpapered many homes and office buildings in the Pierre/Fort Pierre area, leaving a legacy of beauty and craftsmanship.

Mary was united in marriage to Robert “Red” Compton in October of 1951. To this union were born her four children: Perry Compton of Fort Pierre, Jimmy Compton of Shelby, NE, Wendy Compton-Pickard of Albuquerque, NM, and the late Bobby Compton. She met Brian Puckett at Living Waters Fellowship in early 1991. Their first date was a Valentine’s Banquet, and the couple married on August 24, 1991, blending their lives and passions in a union that would last until her passing.

Mary’s interests and achievements were as remarkable as her character. She was a successful thoroughbred racing horse owner, breeder and trainer, with accolades including the SD Thoroughbred Breeding Association Derby winner in 1990, the Fort Pierre Thoroughbred Derby Champion in the same year, and the honor of having the SDTBA Champion Instate Mare “Sweet N’ Silver.” Her talents shone brightly when she won the 1992 Governor’s Handicap Aberdeen with “Big Red Smile” and when she raised champion SD Arabian Horses in 1975, 1977, 1979, and 1981. One specifically, “Princess”, stole her heart and remained her pride and joy. In her later years, her aged gelding, “Prime Time,” was the Leading Horse of the Year, a testament to her enduring expertise.

Mary’s love for her church family was profound, and she shared many years of church life and horse racing with her beloved husband, Brian. Her passion for dressage and the horses she bred and raised on their ranch brought joy to her life. Even at the age of 82, Mary was still very active, often said to be able to outwork any 40-year-old woman and half the men.

Mary Lou Newman Puckett’s life was one of purpose, passion, and love. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her vibrant spirit. Mary’s life was a beautiful journey that enriched the tapestry of her community, and her memory will be cherished forever.

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