Mary Gean McCarthy (a.k.a. Melva Lynn Ricketson; Mary Gean Perkins; and “M&M”) was granted her angel wings on Tuesday, September 1, 2015, at the age of 71. Mary was surrounded by her loved ones when she passed away from a heart attack in Austin, Texas.
Mary was born on October 26, 1943, in Modesto, California to Melvin and Gladys Ricketson. She lived in Riverbank, CA and was raised in Dallas and San Antonio Texas by her adoptive parents, Jack and Sue Perkins. She graduated from Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio in 1963. Mary moved to Washington, D.C. in 1963. She worked for the FBI Fingerprint Department and met her husband, William McCarthy, in 1969. They were married in Washington, D.C. on July 3, 1970, and recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary.
Mary was a devoted military wife for 17 years. Her and her family moved around the world, being stationed in Germany, North Dakota, Nebraska, Mississippi, and finally settling in Austin, Texas in 1984. A loving stay-at-home mom for her own children, Mary adored kids and cared for others’ children inside and outside of the home. She was also a true advocate for animals and an inspiring humanitarian. Mary was full of kindness, love, and strength. It was often heard and said that Mary was the kindest person anyone had ever met.
Mary was passionate about family, pets, plants, movies, and all things Hollywood. She embraced the Irish traditions and cultures like a true Celt. In 2011, she toured Ireland with her husband and deemed it as one of the highlights of her life.
Mary will be greeted in Heaven by Melvin and Gladys Ricketson; Jack and Sue Perkins; and her two brothers, Earl and Earnest Jaspar. Additionally, at least four dogs and one cat will greet her at the Rainbow Bridge.
Mary is survived by her husband, William McCarthy; her daughter, Coleen McCarthy; her son, Shawn McCarthy; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Joyce Jaspar; her best friend of over 60 years, Patty Fletcher; and her canine friend, Kelly.
You may order/send flowers through our family friend, MAS Floral Texas - www.masfloraltexas.com or call 512-699-2267 or 325-388-6270. In lieu of flowers, you may want to make a donation in Mary's honor to her favorite charity, Lil’ Paws www.lilpaws-malteserescue.org or call 512-468-4247 (PO Box 201192, Austin, TX 78720).
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18