Mary Dunlap McElrath

Mrs. Mary Dunlap McElrath passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 in Midland, NC, surrounded by her loved ones. Mary was born on May 17, 1927, in Kershaw, SC to Ms. Beatrice Dunlap (deceased). She was raised in Winston Salem, NC and later attended Winston-Salem State University. Mary was an avid reader and an advocate for good education. Mary met the love of her life, Mr. Thomas James McElrath (TJ), and from their first meeting they were inseparable. Mary and TJ were married and celebrated over 50 years of togetherness. One son, Thomas McElrath Jr. (Tommy) resulted from their union. Tommy, was tragically killed in a car accident at the tender age of six. Later, when TJ became ill, Mary lovingly cared for him until he succumbed to cancer in 1987. Mary and TJ were faithful members of the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Maryland. Mary worked at the U.S. Information Agency for over 25 years before retiring in May of 1976. She was stellar employee and received many meritorious awards. Mary was known for her grace, style, quiet dignity, and enjoying the finer things in life. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and the League of Negro Women Voters. Mary was passionate about international travel and she visited many countries. She also enjoyed playing bridge and was a nationally ranked player, playing in tournaments across the country. Mary enjoyed spending beautiful sunny days on the golf course. She participated in several golf tournaments with friends. Never one to sit still Mary loved to line dance, and just like bridge and golf it was a passion of hers and she was a wonderful dancer. Mary was very health conscious, and paid particular attention to a healthy diet and made time for regular exercise, which included tai chi. Her one indulgence was Haagen-Dazs vanilla bean ice cream. While pursuing her many interests and hobbies, Mary met Mr. Lloyd Farrow and they were joined in matrimony in 1989. She and Lloyd spent several happy years together until his untimely death in 1993. Mary was like a second mother to her nephew Carson, who she called “Carson Jr.” Carson was attentive to her needs and cared for her while she was in Maryland. He had a knack for making her laugh even during difficult times. In 2007, Mary moved to North Carolina to be close to her goddaughter, Tia. Tia lovingly referred to Mary as Godmommy. Tia cared for Godmommy over the years. Mary loved Tia like she was her own daughter and they possessed a very special bond. Mary resided at the Little Flower Assisted Living community under the close watchful eye of Tia, until her last months when Tia and her family cared for Godmommy in her home. Mary particularly enjoyed the company of little Endigo who would lovingly get into bed with Godmommy and stroke her face and comb her hair, while their doberman pinscher, Keylo, stood guard at her door. Mary will be remembered for her grace, beauty, gentle spirit, soft spoken manner and generosity. Along with her nephew Carson Alston (Joy), and her goddaughter Tia Murdock-Gant (Lamont), Mary leaves to cherish her memory: her great goddaughter, Endigo Gant; nieces, Evelyn and Carol Roberson; Betty, Margaret and Mattie Alston; cousin, Gloria DeVane and a host of other relatives and friends. She was also preceded in death by her twin sisters, Margie Jackson and Margaret Roberson. The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation for the many kind expressions of sympathy during their bereavement. Special thanks to the staff of the Little Flower Assisted Living community, and caregivers Mary Smith and Deborah Cousins. May God Bless you all!

Mary Dunlap McElrath

May 17, 1927 - March 25, 2015