Mary McCauley

Mary Fish McCauley, age 88, passed away peacefully on November 27. She was born September 5, 1931, in Monticello, Arkansas to George Dudley Fish and Jessie Guice Hunter Fish. She married the love of her life J. Matthew McCauley on May 29, 1953. From this blessed union was born three children: Anita, Thomas and Charles. Across generations and a close extended family, their bond was an inspiration to others.

Mary taught 6th grade in Hope, AR for many years, and remained Facebook friends with several of her former students until her death. She found much joy in seeing their successes, and kept up with everyone in her life on her ever-present iPad every day.

In March 1984, she suddenly became widowed and counted on her family, friends and community of Hope for inspiration and comfort. In 2004, Mary made the courageous decision to move to Sherwood, AR to be closer to her daughter - a decision that was only 20 years in the making. Once there, she flourished, becoming very active at First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock and Shepherd’s Center, as well as a proud member of Delta Kappa Gamma and DAR.

Mary is predeceased by her parents, husband Matt, sister Thelma Giessen, brother Dudley Fish and beloved youngest child, Charles. Her faithful dog Jingles peacefully followed her owner three days after her passing. Mary is survived by her daughter Anita McCauley Murrell of North Little Rock, son Thomas (Sharon) McCauley of Galveston, TX, grandsons Dan Murrell of Los Angeles and William McCauley of Malvern, sister JoAnne (Ray) Robbins of Hampton VA, and very special sister-in-law Dollie Tucker of Rison and her husband Bobbie. She also leaves behind many deeply loved nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Andover Independent Living and her friends there for bringing much joy to her during her later life as well as the staff of Independent Seniors of Arkansas for support as her health began to fail. A special nod of gratitude to Molly, Doug, Jeanne, Ken and Artie. She held a very special place in her heart for each of you. And lastly the staff of Hospice Home Care, especially her nurse Jill and social worker Daniel.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to First United Methodist Church or Meals on Wheels. A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at First United Methodist Church NLR on December 21st at 11 AM.

May all your lives be blessed to have a daughter, wife, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend like Mary McCauley.