Mary Jane Ethridge

Mary Jane graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1961 and went on to graduate from Baylor University in 1964. She began her teaching career in Odessa, where she taught for four years, before returning to Baytown. She then taught at Stephen F. Austin Elementary School in Baytown for 26 years. Through her many years as an educator, Mary Jane touched the lives of countless students and families.

Mary Jane was a lifelong member of Memorial Baptist Church in Baytown and was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma for 55 years. Her dedication to her family, her students, her church, and her community was an important part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Reginald “Reggie” Ethridge; her parents, Pete and Ruth Bull; her sister, Judy Atkinson; and her stepson, Keith Ethridge.

Mary Jane is survived by her nephews and nieces, Scott and Melissa Atkinson, Drew and Missy Atkinson, and Holly and Brett Morris; her great-nephews, Taylor Atkinson, Cooper Atkinson, and Drake Atkinson; and her great-niece, Brittany Mata. She is also survived by numerous great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, as well as her stepchildren, Gwen Proffer and Tracy Ethridge, and numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Mary Jane will be lovingly remembered by her family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, warmth, and love for others will remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Visitation will be held from 10 am -11 am, Friday, September 11, 2026, at Memorial Baptist Church, 600 W. Sterling Ave., Baytown, Texas 77520, with the funeral service to follow and begin at 11 am. A private family graveside will be held.