Four memories:
First: “Far” out in Matagorda Bay near Palacios, we were headed back to the Green’s residence when the weather turned windy. Mary was piloting our small boat as we bumped over the waves and I tried not to bounce too hard. We (Mary, Betty, Norman and I) were at jeopardy in my novice 15-year-old mind and I was lost, but not Mary as she guided us safely back to a distant shore. I was truly impressed and relieved. Today I relate Mary’s performance to that of Abigail in 1 Samuel 25 when Abigail displayed good judgment, generosity, and common sense.
Second: Sydney gave Mary the car keys and asked her to take us to Palacios to pick up some items, probably groceries. Mary and I had June birth dates and both were 15. Norman was one year older and Betty one year younger. This was going to be an adventure! About halfway there Mary pulled over and asked Norm if he wanted to drive. He did. Then Mary asked Betty if she wanted to have a turn. To my amazement she drove well, which really made me uneasy because I knew who was next. Yes, Mary next asked me if I wanted to drive. I did not hesitate to let all know I would not be taking a turn. To my relief, Mary understood my reluctance and she drove the reminder of the trip. Mary, like the Biblical namesake of her mother, see Ruth 1:8, was kind. This kindness extended for as long as I knew her.
Third: Shortly after Lynn and I were married, Mary invited us to visit Tom and her at their New Orleans home, and we eagerly accepted. I don’t know the focus of Lynn and Mary’s conversation, but they both loved to quilt. I had a great time when Tom took the day off from his professor job at LSU and treated me to an all day salt water fishing trip. Then we came back to their home for Mary’s delicious home cooked meal. Like Nathaniel in John 1:47, Mary (and Tom) were “without guile—no deceit, no hypocrisy, no disguise, no trick.” They were just really good folks and we loved getting to know them in their comfortable married life.
Lastly: At the closing communion service at MacGregor Bible Chapel, Sydney Green led us to Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which has begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” I have no doubt about Mary’s salvation and faithful service. For our friend Mary, many good things took place when she met Jesus.
Mary was a beautiful woman in so many ways. We treasure memories of her and are thankful God put her in our lives.
—Phil & Lynn Davis