Mary Jean Rossiter

As we reflect on the extraordinary life of Mary Jean-Alice Stewart Rossiter, we are reminded of the indelible mark she left on this world. Born in the golden era of cinema, Mary often remarked with a touch of humor, “1939 was the year they made ‘The Wizard of Oz’, ‘Gone with the Wind’, ‘Pinocchio’, and ME!”. Mary's journey paralleled the timeless classics of her birth year, filled with moments of joy, trials of character, and the unwavering love of her family. Her story is one of resilience, grace, and the enduring power of education to shape lives. We honor her legacy, not just as a cherished family member, but as an educator who inspired generations and a community pillar whose impact will be felt for years to come.

Mary was born June 27, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois to Carl James Stewart Sr. and Jean Mathilda Stewart (née Potter). Mary graduated from John H. Regan High School before attending University of Houston where she graduated with a BS in Education in 1972. She later furthered her education earning her Masters of Education in December of 1983 from Sam Houston University. Her love for teaching and learning was always present even after 35 years with Spring Independent School District in Spring, TX. Mary had a profound love for her students, her community, America, and especially Texas.

Mary was a respected educator, touching the lives of countless students during her tenure and maintaining relationships even after retirement. She was cherished as a devoted mother, a doting grandmother, and a loving great-grandmother, affectionately known to all as 'Gigi.’ She was actively involved in many pursuits over the years. Some of her favorites were the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Delta Gamma sorority, volunteer activities including quilting and knitting for troops, Mercer Park Arboretum, and local election volunteering. She attended the Republican National Convention. An amusing anecdote occurred when Barbara Bush humorously told Mary to hush during a convention. Mary also found joy in various creative pursuits, such as oil painting, knitting, sewing, quilting, and assembling puzzles. She cherished time spent tending to her yard and flowerbeds. Additionally, Mary was fortunate to have traveled across all 50 of the United States and visited multiple countries.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Jean Stewart; brother, Jimmy Stewart Jr; former husband, Philemon “Phil” Edwin Rossiter; and granddaughter, Mikayla Hope Rossiter.

Mary is survived by her children, daughter Kimberly Elizabeth Pruitt (son-in-law, George Edward Pruitt) and son Phil “Chip” Edwin Rossiter, Jr. (daughter-in-law Pamela DianeBratton Rossiter); grandchildren, James “Jimmy” Nicholas Meek (Kimberly), Jeffrey Ross Meek (Kristen), Jillian Elizabeth Meek Cicio (Jimmy), Jeffrey Alan Rossiter (Kimberly), Bradley Trent Rossiter, and Emmarie (Emma) Hope Rossiter; and great grandchildren Nolan and Isla Meek, Claire and Calvin Meek, Reid Rossiter, and Delilah, Stella, Max, and Luca Cicio.

Visitation and Memorial Service will be held at Spring Baptist Church on Saturday August 17, 2024, located at 633 East Louetta Road in Spring, Texas. Visitation is from 10–11:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society, 2500 Fondren #100, Houston, Texas 77063, or to a school or charity that you believe has the biggest impact on your local community.