Mary McCaa Torkington

Mary McCaa Massey Torkington of Florence, Alabama died November 27th, 2025. Born in Anniston, Alabama on January 18, 1929, she was a direct descendant of Samuel Noble, a founding Father of Anniston and daughter of Miriam Cook and John McCaa.

She was the eldest of four siblings; Margaret McCaa Stough, John McCaa, Jr, who are deceased, and Samuel McCaa. She was preceded in death by her former husband, James Madison Massey, Jr. with whom she had four children; James Madison Massey, III (wife Betty of Birmingham); David Cook Massey of Florence; William Denton Massey, II (wife Bridget of Atlanta); and Mary Noble Massey Cain (husband Tom of Homewood).

Mary is also survived by seven grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her second husband, William Torkington.

Mary was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church for more than 70 years, serving in several capacities including President of the Episcopal Church Women. She served on the Vestry, was Treasurer and a weekly offering counter, among many other roles. Mary introduced the church newsletter “Trinity Tidings;” the first copy was printed in March of 1959, and it continues today. She was a pilgrim of Cursillo #23 and also served on staff of Cursillo #132. Mary most enjoyed being a founding member of Trinity’s SOLO Flight, a ministry that builds community and fellowship for divorced, widowed, and all single adults.

Mary had an entrepreneurial spirit. She was a writer at the Shoals Picture Newspaper, coordinated advertising for Florence Lumber Company, and opened a clothing boutique with Hazel Meade Thompson called Merrimede. She was a Sales Consultant at Parisian before becoming the Personnel Coordinator. She retired from Parisian with 20 years of service, only to find that she didn’t enjoy retirement… so Mary went to work as a part time teller at Truist Bank.

The family gives special thanks to Mary’s team of caregivers who skillfully loved and cared for her, while allowing her to be in charge.

A private committal will take place at a later date.

Memorials in Mary’s memory may be made to Camp McDowell, 105 Delong Road, Nauvoo, AL 35578.

Services are under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel (205.879.3401)