Mary L Mccormack (Manderson)

Mary Louise (Manderson) McCormack

July 06, 1923 – October 12, 2015

Mary Louise McCormack, age 92, of Montrose, CO., died peacefully Oct. 12, 2015.  She was born to Lewis Monroe and Ethel Pauline (Duncan) Manderson in Cordova, Ala.  Mary received her education in Cordova. Following high school she worked as a secretary to earn money for college. She attended and graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in Home Economics and Elementary Education, and later received a Master’s degree in Elementary Education.   Mary taught elementary students for six years in Alabama, before moving west to teach Navajo children in Nevada, New Mexico and Arizona. Mary worked with Native American students for over 25 years as a teacher and counselor.

On Dec.22, 1969, Mary married James William McCormack in Dallas, Texas.  Together they raised their son Mike, living on the Navajo Reservation in Ganado, Ariz.

She retired in September 1983.  She and James spent their retirement years caring for their elderly parents and traveling in their motor home. They visited all 50 states, 31 countries and the seven continents before moving to Montrose in 2001, where they made their home until time of death.

Surviving family members include husband James McCormack, son James Michael (Maureen) McCormack; brother Lewis Monroe (Faye) Manderson Jr; grandson Matthew (Meghan)McCormack; granddaughter Mackette McCormack; nieces De De  Stovall (Al)  Ferebee , and Kelley Fitzpatrick; nephews Mike (Janice) Manderson, Chris (Melissa) Manderson and Scott (Beth) Sanfistel; cousin Mirtle Bumstead; great-grandson Matthew Charles McCormack; great-granddaughter Margaret McCormack.  Mary was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Betty Joy Stovall, and two nieces, Teri Phillips and Cindy Manderson.

Mary enjoyed traveling, reading, music and the study of Grammar.  She will be greatly missed by her family.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, Hope West Hospice, New Mexico Children’s Home (Bethel NM).  Crippin Funeral Home & Crematory in Montrose is assisting the family. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015 from 4-7 p.m. at the Crippin Funeral Home Chapel. A  Funeral services will be held at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel 2 p.m., Thursday Oct.15, 2015. Interment will follow at Cedar Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Crippin Funeral Home, Montrose.