Mary R. Coale

Mary Coale, long time resident of Lakeway died on August 3. She was 100 years old. During her life she experienced the highs and lows of great happiness and tragedy. She lived through these with dignity and grace. Born in Jacksonville, Florida she moved with her family to Westfield, New Jersey when still a small child. Her brother Art, a Naval Academy midshipman, introduced her to one of his classmates, George Coale. They were married in 1927 and enjoyed 67 years together. George was transferred to Houston in 1950 as general manager of Baroid Sales Division of National Lead Company. In that role he traveled frequently often piloting the company plane himself. Because she accompanied him on many of these trips, Mary, at age 51, decided to take flying lessons herself and subsequently became rated in eight flight categories including instrument instructor, glider, and seaplanes. She flew into her 80's and amassed more than 3, 500 hours of flight time. As a member of the "99's", she competed in the Powder Puff Derby and flew on a flight safari in South Africa. She traveled all over the United States and Canada and often flew with George on business to South America. A dedicated and enthusiastic golfer, Mary was president of the LLGA and played into her 90's. She was always thrilled to get over "Jaws" (number 3 at Live Oak). She was awarded LLGA "Ace of the Month" at age 86. She had the excitement of a hole in one in 1968. Mary and George moved to Lakeway in 1970 upon George's retirement. They were strong supporters of the fledgling town, then having only 500 inhabitants. They were instrumental in establishing the Community Center and the Lakeway Memorial Park. Mary was a staunch member of the Lakeway Church and contributed graciously to its mission over the years. Above all, Mary was a family person. Mother of three, grandmother of eight, and a great grandmother to another eight, it is the love of and for her family that brought her great joy for the past 100 years. Mary celebrated her 100th birthday last November with her entire family and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, George; her son, Frank; and grandson, George IV. She is survived by her two sons, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at the Lakeway Church at 1100AM on Saturday, August 8. For those desiring, memorial contributions in her name may be sent to the Lakeway Church, 2203 Lakeway Blvd, Lakeway, TX 78734 or Hospice Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Road #100, Austin, TX 78759.