Mary Jane Carson

Our darling mother, Mary Jane Carson, died at home with her family on November 7, 2016, at the age of 91 after a long, courageous battle with COPD. Born in New York City, she was the granddaughter of the Medical Director of Bellevue and the Allied Hospitals of NYC. Her father, a professional photographer and Army officer, served in WWI and II earning the Purple Heart while serving under Gen. George Patton in Italy. Her mother was one of the first female airline executives in the United States, and was a vice president of Capital Airlines, now part of United Airlines. Her stepfather was a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist for the Hearst newspapers whose column was also published in the San Antonio Light.

Happy summers were spent with her sister and brother at "Brookside", her grandparents' historic 1812 home in New York, inspiring a lifelong interest in history. She attended the Westover School in Connecticut and Sarah Lawrence College in New York. Married for 58 years to Lt. Gen. Charles W. Carson, Jr. USAF, Penny enjoyed the life of a military wife and was a devoted partner to him. Gen. Carson, a 1943 graduate of West Point, predeceased her in 2002. Her charitable work contributed to both civilian and the military communities. She was active in the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Colonial Dames of America, Daughters of 1812, Daughters of American Colonists, and several other genealogical societies, holding key positions, and she strongly supported historic preservation. She loved playing bridge and playing the piano, was a fine speaker, and an expert in needlepoint.

Most of all, she showed a kindness and concern for others. She appreciated her long friendships with her many good neighbors and friends. Her loyal rescued dogs, Lucky and GG, were constant companions in her last years. She is survived by three daughters, Mary Jane Carson, Althea Carson, and Deborah Hutchins and husband Duane, two grandsons, Scott and wife Deborah, Jeff and wife Leslie and five great-grandsons, Ulysses, Ridley, Brooks, Brody and Beckett.

Burial is in the Carson family cemetery in north Texas. Her family is especially grateful to the nurses and staff of Alamo Hospice, and Penny's expert caregivers Sandra and Mary B. for their compassionate professional care. Her family and friends mourn the loss of this lovely and very capable woman.

A memorial service will be held at her home. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation (PO Box 369, Kendalia, TX 78027-0369), San Antonio Pets Alive (PO Box 830008, San Antonio, TX 78283), or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

We love you, Mama.