Mary Ann Chambers

Mary Ann was born on December 14, 1939, in Nolan, Texas to Zora (Burkhart) and C.C. Chambers. As a devout Catholic, she grew up in the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Parish in Houston and would attend St. Agnes Academy from first grade until her graduation in 1957.

Following in her father’s footsteps, Mary Ann worked for Gulf Oil / Chevron as an accountant for 34 years. She then founded Chambers Cargo Consulting and provided maritime logistics consulting at the Port of Houston. After retiring from the business world, her interest in health led her to the YMCA Weekley location, where she would start a new career as a fitness instructor and the Active Older Adults Coordinator. Leading Pilates, Yoga, and even Zumba classes to students of all ages was her favorite part of her time at the YMCA. She credited her enthusiastic teaching style and limber movement to her younger years of ballet training.

On her path from the corporate world to entrepreneurship and onward, Mary Ann was an active, well-esteemed member in business and community organizations. She earned the leadership awards from American Business Women’s Association, Federation of Houston Professional Women, St. Agnes Academy Alumnae Association and YMCA. With her decades of presence in many of Houston’s business and social communities, she nurtured many long-lasting relationships. Everywhere she went, she joyfully reconnected with a familiar face and friend.

From a very young age, Mary Ann was formed in the Dominican tradition of the Catholic faith. Mary Ann was a lifelong friend of the Dominican Sisters of Houston, and as a committed member of the Dominican Family, she faithfully promoted the dignity of all persons and living creatures. Even after surviving breast cancer and receiving an Alzheimer diagnosis, Mary Ann continued to live her life with optimism, grace, kindness, and a giving heart. Her bright smile, skill of telling stories, and deep care for people and puppies alike will be missed by all whose hearts she touched.

Please consider honoring Mary Ann’s wishes for donations to St. Agnes Academy, Dominican Sisters of Houston, St. Dominic Village or The Rose -Breast Center of Excellence.