Mary Aline (Mixson) Perry, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Denton, Texas, on October 2, 2025, at the age of 98. Born in San Angelo, Texas, on May 17, 1927, to JC Mixson and Mary Martin Mixson, Mary lived a life marked by grace, resilience, and deep love for her family and community.
Mary was a founding member of Southland Baptist Church in San Angelo, where her faith and commitment to service were evident in all she did. She later attended Hillcrest Baptist Church for many years, continuing to nurture her spiritual life and relationships. During her time at Rio Concho Manor and Rio Concho Terrace, she remained actively engaged in Bible study through the Business Men's and Women's Bible Study Ministry, reflecting her lifelong devotion to learning and fellowship.
In her final years, Mary resided at Brookdale Denton North Assisted Living, where she was lovingly cared for by many dedicated caregivers. She passed peacefully under the compassionate care of her family, Enhabit Hospice of Denton, and the Brookdale team.
Her body grew tired, but her love for others—especially children—remained strong until her final breath. She loved sharing stories with caregivers and anyone who would listen, especially tales of caring for children and meeting Bob, the love of her life, at the Troy Laundry in San Angelo. Yearly Family Reunions were her happiest memories. Mary and Bob owned and operated Perry’s Day Care in San Angelo from 1964-1984 providing care and support for many children and their families.
Mary is survived by her brothers, Don (Helen), Mickey (Kay), and Ray (Millie) Mixson; many nieces and nephews; her daughters, Vanessa (Rick) Clark and Sue Heidelberg; her granddaughter, Sara (Casey) Lewis; and her great-grandchildren, Aiden and Ashlyn Lewis.
She is proceeded in death by her husband Bob Perry, her daughter Delzie Ann Shipman, brothers, Robert, Dal, Sam, and James Mixson, and sisters, Murl Dubose, Pauline Ford, and Sarah Traylor. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and strength lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Graveside service will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 11:00 am in Johnson’s Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Brother Charles Smith officiating. For those that wish to join us, we will be gathering at Johnson’s Hospitality Room after the service for a Light Lunch and fellowship. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Children’s Advocacy Center of Greater West Texas, or West Texas Boys Ranch, or any charitable agency of your choosing.
