Mary Arletta Kelly McCauley

Came into this world September 12th, 1934, and left for her reward in Glory on September 10, 2020. In those 85 years and 363 days she lived an incredible life that touched the lives of countless others. She was born to loving parents, Ophelia Gilleylen Kelly and Lawrence Kelly in St. Louis, MO. She matriculated through the St. Louis Public Schools graduating as a recognized member of the National Honors Society from her beloved Sumner High School in 1952. She remained a proud and participating alum until her passing. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Education from Harris-Stowe Teachers College (now Harris-Stowe University) in 1957. She attended St. Louis University and Washington University to obtain her certification in Special Education. In 1975 Mary received a Master of Education from the University of Missouri - St. Louis. In addition, she was a dedicated member of the American Mathematical Society. Mary worked for the St. Louis Public Schools in varying capacities including Teacher, Special Education Specialist, and Math Consultant for St. Louis public schools under State and Federal Programs until finally retiring after 43 years of service in 2000. Most important to Mary was her faith. She was christened by Reverend Jessie Boyd, Sr. at (Old)St. Peter A.M.E. Church at 4 months old. Mary was a third - generation member of St. Peter. For the rest of her days, her church activities epitomized the lyrics of one her favorite spirituals “Ain’t Got Time Die.” The following are some of her many accomplishments: —She was a Trustee (secretary) and Trustee Emeritus —Director of the St. Peter YPD and Missouri Conference Y.P.D. (Saw many young people come to Christ) —Assistant Director of Vacation Bible School —Worked tirelessly with the St. Peter Kitchen Committee —Served on the board of the 5th District A.M.E. Economic Development Fund —Two - time Delegate to the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church —Member at one time Vice President of the Princess Cheatam Women’s Missionary Society Later in life, Mary had faithful memberships with Bethel AME Church in Springfield, MA and First AME Church Alexandria in Alexandria VA. Mary felt our lives should be a praise offering to God. Mary McCauley lived by the acronym S.W.A.P. She wanted to be a Sister With A Purpose. She found ways to serve her community and her God. She served as McKinley PTA. Secretary, County Voter registration committee, Member of Normandy High Band Assoc., St. Louis Black Repertory Theater, and a volunteer at DePaul Hospital. Mary was a dedicated, hardworking member of the Public Service Sorority. Delta Sigma Theta for 63 years and a member of Top Ladies of Distinction. After her retirement, she continued to work as a volunteer for the St. Louis Public School’s Reading and Mentoring Programs. To be clear, Mary had her battle scars of life, literally and figuratively. One reason many were inspired by this great lady was that she believed Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose." She understood no matter how things looked, God’s hand was on her life. As a result, those around her saw her get out, reach out, and live out her faith…. despite the challenges and difficulties of life. That’s why, despite her amputation, you could find her doing the electric slide in her electric wheelchair! Finally, there are no words to express the depth of Mary’s love and devotion to her family. Her 29-year marriage to Samuel Myron McCauley, produced two children. While preceded in death by her parents and sister Marlene Roberson she is survived by her sister Barbara Williams, daughter Gayle McMahan (and husband Arthur), son Gilbert McCauley (and wife Shannon), granddaughter Gabrielle McMahan, grandson Phlilip Arthur McMahan (and fiancée Tasha Pennington), grandsons Tyrell Jackson, Angelo Jackson, IsaMahal Castro-McCauley, Samuel Castro-McCauley, granddaughter Zion Lamb-Wilkins, and great-granddaughter Jordan McMahan, nephew Vincent Roberson, Niece Cynthia Howard and host of other grand nieces, nephew, cousins, mentees, sorors and forever friends.