Born in Minden, Louisiana, daughter of the late Lambert Woods and Ione Woods, Mary Kacenjar began life studying the piano at Centenary College of Louisiana. She obtained her masters in music at McNeese State University. She performed as a concert pianist for some years. Ever curious, she attained high degrees in nursing and worked as a registered nurse for over 30 years. Mary supported her former husband the late Leonard Kacenjar Sr. in musical endeavors and helped to establish the Shreveport Summer Music Festival. In her latter years, she became a registered massage therapist and practiced sound healing. After retirement, she took exemplary care of Leonard until his passing. 

She moved to Denver, Colorado, where she passed away in her home at peace with her son and daughter-in-law on August 17th, 2026. Mary was a compassionate healer throughout her life, who consistently put others first. She inspired everyone who knew her with warmth, brilliance and resiliency.

Mary was treasured by her son, Leonard "Leo" Kacenjar (Ashley), with whom she shared a truly deep and special relationship. She was a beloved step mother to Rebecca Dosé (Ed). She was a dear sister to Helen Hinton (Donald) and Hallman Woods (Mary Beth) and loving aunt to their children.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, 4747 Creswell Ave, Shreveport, LA 71106, where she spent many a morning walking the gardens in awe of the beauty of the earth.