Mary Clarene Cahill

On February 3, 2020, Mary Ryan Davis Cahill passed away peacefully. She was 85 years young. Mary was born in Portland, Oregon on September 20, 1934 as the youngest daughter of Flossie and Clarence Ryan with her older brother Ernie. She attended Cleveland High School, then transferred to and graduated from St. Mary’s High School upon both her parent’s deaths in her sophomore year. Ever resilient, she was a cheerleader in high school and planned to pursue writing. She worked for the phone company and was a hostess at the USO where she met her first husband, Earl Davis. Though a native Oregonian, Mary called Stockton, California home for over 60 years.

She was a beloved and active member of her community. The mother of five Davis children, “grandma kitty” to six grandchildren and great grandmother to four of the next generation of Davis’. Family was her first priority. She was quick to help a friend and make time for everyone. As a single parent, Mary worked multiple part-time jobs so she could support her kids in their endeavors. She would proudly boast about all five of her children’s accomplishments and antics.

Mary was passionate about animals, acting and gardening. Her career highlights include special education assistant for Stockton Unified, customer service clerk at the DMV and yard duty supervisor at John Adams Elementary. She was known as the “hostess with the mostest” at the Downtown Stockton Holiday Inn and the longest living cocktail waitress (25 years) at Pollardville Palace Showboat. She was thrilled to perform in the Stockton Senior Showcase. She was also active in additional activities such as the PTA and the Sherwood Manor Swim Team.

Strong willed and determined, Mary was also equal parts sass and exuberance. She loved movies, travel, hot air ballooning, Winchester Bay, Oregon, Barry Manilow and lemon meringue pie. Her motto was “Family first, adopt a pet or 5, and always have dessert.” Wherever she went, she shared her infectious smile, positive attitude and witty personality. Mary will be greatly missed.

Mary was predeceased by her son, Stephen Davis, daughter, Phyllis Shepherd, brother Ernest Ryan, sister Gwenda Marshall and her parents Flossie and Clarence Ryan. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Gary Cahill, daughters Linda and Sharon and son Stuart. Six grandchildren, four great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Mary’s amazing life will be held on March 13, 2020 from 10am- 2pm at the First Baptist Church (Worship Center), 2535 N. "El Dorado St., Stockton, Ca 95204. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Mary’s name to (Front Street Animal Shelter). Link is below.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-mary-cahill