Mary Formby

Mary Idelle (née Glover) Formby, who filled the lives of many with music, love, and kindness, passed away on October 30, 2026, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Born on May 15, 1940, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Mary was the beloved daughter of Clyde and Elizabeth Glover. She departed this world peacefully in her sleep, “from the arms of Morpheus to the arms of her Saviour”.

Mary led a life rich in love and dedication. She married the love of her life, Allen Formby, on Thanksgiving in 1958. Together, they shared nearly 55 blissful years until Allen's passing in 2013. She was the perfect wife and helpmeet to him, and their marriage was a testament to enduring love and companionship. She was also a wonderful stepmother to Allen’s only child, Colleen, and raised her from the time she was five years old.

A graduate of Pine Bluff High School in 1958, Mary was a woman of many talents. Her love and gift for music was evident in her long-time role as a pianist for her church in Pine Bluff, as well as for East Side Baptist and Central Baptist in Springhill, Louisiana. Her husband Allen, who had met her when he was the music director at her church in Pine Bluff always teased “never let a good accompanist get away. I married mine”. Her music brought joy and solace to countless hearts. She was a born again Christian, and loved her Lord and her church, and as well as her musical talent, was a gifted Bible and Sunday School teacher for years. Beyond all these, Mary was also a writer, contributing a birding column to the local newspaper, where she shared her knowledge and love for birdwatching.

Mary’s life was enriched by her years of membership in the Audubon Society, reflecting her lifelong passion for birding. She had an ability to identify birds both by sight and by ear, a skill that brought her great joy. Additionally, her love for antiques and fine reproductions was evident in her beautiful home.

Her gentle spirit was best reflected in her kind nature and giving heart. Mary’s love extended to her four-legged companions, especially her cherished Golden Retriever, Maggie. Her family wishes to honor her memory through donations to the Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue in Hudson, MA, where previous Goldens in her life have been memorialized.

Mary is survived by her stepdaughter, Colleen Formby, her sister-in-law Sally Glover, and her niece and nephew, Becky Glover and Brian Glover. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother, Dr. Clyde Glover, and her husband, Allen Formby. Her family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers with Elite Hospice and the compassionate neighbors who enriched her final days with their care and love.

A private gathering for friends and family will be held at a later date. Her gentle spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Psalm 116:15 says “Precious in in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His saints”, and Mary was truly one of His own.