Mary Susan "Boo" Jeffcoat

Born in Montello, WI, to Andrew and Gladys Cotter, Boo (so nicknamed because her brother, Jim, could not manage to say “Mary Susan”) attended Roman Catholic schools in Montello for her primary education, then went on to earn an undergraduate degree from the University of Dallas, TX. After completing her degree, she enrolled in the graduate philosophy program at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, TX, and studied diligently for several years while also participating in campus life, including singing with the Music Ministry choir for Sunday morning Masses and occasional special events.

At the end of her studies, Boo married and subsequently had two children, Bridget and Bryan. She relocated to Beaumont, TX, and lived there with her family for a number of years. A fierce advocate for her children, she was never shy about doing battle with school districts to make sure that her daughter and son had the support they needed within their schools.

She and her children moved back to Houston and, in addition to her continued protectiveness of them, she also became active in Faith and Light, the local branch of the worldwide L’Arche community that is devoted to advancing the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She also spent quite a few years as the weekday cook for Dillon House, a retirement home for members of the Congregation of St. Basil (Basilian Fathers), where her culinary talents were widely hailed.

As her mother’s health and sight began to falter, Boo made the decision to return to Montello to offer her help and support so that her mother could remain in her home. While there, she also worked in various capacities for Durward’s Glen Retreat and Conference Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the area’s unique natural beauty, historic past, and Catholic heritage.

After her mother’s death, Boo made the decision to retire and return to Houston, where she lived quietly for the rest of her life. She was a talented painter, and she also enjoyed crafting of various sorts, all activities that nourished and gratified her creative spirit.

Boo was predeceased by her son, Bryan Jeffcoat; her parents, Andrew and Gladys Cotter; her brother, Jim Cotter; her sister, Kathleen “Kathy” Cotter; and her nephew, David Cotter. She is survived by her daughter, Bridget Jeffcoat; her grandson, Robert “Robby” Jeffcoat; her brother, Paul Cotter; her niece, Amy Cotter Smith (husband Richard), and three grand-nephews, Thomas, Ricky, and Anthony Smith.

Details of the funeral Mass to be held in Montello will be announced later, and there are also preliminary plans for a memorial Mass to be held at the University of St. Thomas in Houston.