Mary Richard Collier

Mrs. Collier, 71, died on September 25, 2011. She was born on February 17, 1941 in Charlotte, NC. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School, attended St. Mary’s Junior College and went on to graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was a member of Myers Park Presbyterian Church, the Junior League of Charlotte, and the Charlotte City Club. She had many close and loyal friends who will miss her dearly. She enjoyed reading, gardening, playing bridge, and visiting with her friends. Mary Richard’s greatest joy was the company of her children and grandchildren.

Preceding Mary Richard in death were her parents, Dr. Paul Jones Chambers, Jr. and Mary Ellen Watts Chambers; her husband, Forrest Leonard Collier, III (Pete); her brother Paul Jones Chambers, III; and her sister, Sally Chambers Bond.

She is survived by her two children, Forrest Leonard Collier, IV and Mary Ellen Collier McElroy; and their spouses, Ashley Sigman Collier and Chuck Hardwicke McElroy. She is also survived by her brother Ludwell Lee Chambers and his wife Libby; her sister-in-law Betsy (Bebie) Linn Chambers, her cousin, Danny Watts; and six nieces and nephews.

Mary Richard’s grandchildren will remember their Nana for her generosity. They frequently visited her house where they could always find a treat or surprise. They are Charles “Collier” McElroy, Mary Watts McElroy, Wesley Pender McElroy, and Macie McLean Collier.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at Myers Park Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of her special charitable interests, The Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, P.O. Box 14608, Greensboro, NC 27415-4608; Family Support Network of Central Carolina, 801 Green Valley Road, Greensboro, NC 27408; or to Susan G. Komen-for the Cure-Charlotte, 2316 Randolph Rd., Charlotte, NC 28207.

Condolences may also be extended at www.harryandbryantfuneralhome.com