Mary Alice Clower

Dr. Mary Alice Clower, beloved daughter, niece, cousin, professor, mentor, and friend to many, passed away peacefully and entered into eternal rest on May 3, 2025. Known affectionately as "Mac" to those who knew her best, Mary Alice lived a full and vibrant life, guided by her devotion to teaching, her passion for athletics, her love of animals, and her unshakable joy in connecting with others.

Mary Alice was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond J. Clower and Mary Helen Clower, her dear friend of 56 years, Alice J. Cunningham who passed in 2016, and several beloved aunts and uncles. She is survived by her uncle, Charles H. Daniel, her aunt, Frances Chastain (Robert), several beloved cousins, and her loyal dog Hanna.

A native of Hampton, Georgia, Mary Alice was born on March 6, 1933, the daughter of Raymond and Mary Helen Daniel Clower. She grew up in Hampton, where her love for sports and animals took root. A standout student and athlete at Hampton High School, she was honored in 1950 for her outstanding athleticism, sportsmanship, and citizenship.

Mary Alice earned her B.S. in Health and Physical Education from Georgia State College for Women in 1954. Her lifelong dedication to education and athletics began shortly thereafter, as she taught and coached in public high schools in Jefferson and College Park, Georgia. In 1958, she joined the faculty of Emory University as an instructor in Health and Physical Education, launching a remarkable 34-year career at the institution.

She earned her Master's in Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and her Doctorate from the University of Georgia in 1978. At Emory, she rose through the ranks-from instructor to assistant professor, associate professor, full professor, and ultimately department chair in 1986—the first woman to hold that role.

During her tenure at Emory (1958-1992), Dr. Clower made transformative contributions to the university. She developed the women's intramural program, served as the first women's volleyball coach, coached intercollegiate tennis for five years, and coordinated the Basic Instruction Program for over a decade. Her tenure as department chair was marked by the successful restructuring of the health education program, which became a model for other institutions. In 1999, she was inducted into the Emory Sports Hall of Fame-a fitting recognition for a pioneer in women's athletics and education.

Mary Alice's impact extended far beyond Emory. She was an active leader in numerous professional organizations, including the Georgia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (GAHPERD), where she served as president (1974-1975) and received both the Honor Award for Meritorious Service and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Georgia. She also held leadership roles in the Southern Association of Physical Education for College Women (SAPEW) and was a long-time member of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD).

Throughout her life, Mary Alice was devoted to her students, especially young women, many of whom she mentored and inspired both on and off the field. She was known for her dynamic teaching, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment to equality in women's sports. In 1992, she was honored as one of Emory's most distinguished retirees and granted the title Professor Emerita in the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Dance.

Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, Mary Alice will be remembered for her radiant spirit, her boundless energy, and her deep love of the outdoors. Her cherished cabin at Lake Burton-fondly known as "The Laughing Place" — was the center of countless gatherings filled with joy, laughter, storytelling, and fellowship. She loved hiking, fishing, jogging, boating, and being surrounded by the people (and pets) she loved most. Her personal motto, "Keep Moving," was a mantra she lived by every day.

In her later years, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the family was so thankful for the loving support received by two dear friends: Judy Greer, a wonderful friend for over 67 years from her time at Emory, and Janet Brumfield, whose presence and care were truly angelic. We are also thankful for the entire staff and team that cared for Mary Alice at Arbor Terrace Memory Care in Decatur.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30am on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Berea Cemetery in Hampton for family and close friends. There will be a celebration remembrance service at The Emory Campus Life Pavilion, 716 Peavine Creek Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA. 30322 from 10am-12pm on Friday, May 23,2025. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to: Emory Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center or the Winship Cancer Institute at the Woodruff Health Sciences Center of Emory University, A life of purpose, passion, and profound impact- Dr Mary Alice Clower will always be remembered.