Thelma Barrington McCrary

Thelma Barrington McCrary Obituary

Thelma Barrington McCrary passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, on March 26th at her home in New York City. She was 100 years old. The relationships she forged with so many loving friends and family members were a constant source of love and strength for her.

Born Thelma Virginia Barrington on October 16, 1925, in Birmingham, Alabama. She was the daughter of Bernice and Hugh Barrington Sr. In the 1930's, her family moved to Detroit, Michigan as part of the Great Migration North, a journey that would shape the course of her life. She attended high school at Northwestern in Detroit and went on to earn both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from Wayne State University. Thelma devoted more than forty years to Detroit Public Schools as a teacher and principal, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and educators. After retiring, she embraced a life of travel, exploring the world alongside her beloved husband, Magellan and enjoyed her family to the fullest!

Thelma was a deeply engaged member of her community, which included her work with The Junior Group of Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit, and as a member of the Friends of Wayne State University School of Medicine. She found immense joy and fellowship in being a long standing member of her beloved Christ Church Detroit, where she also served on the vestry. She also had a lifelong commitment to her Delta Sigma Theta Sorority which she belonged to for 80 years and where she took great pride in becoming a Delta Dear.

Thelma was known for her warmth, precision, and unmistakable personal touch. She was an avid letter writer with beautiful handwriting and never missed her loved one's birthdays, (or any holiday for that matter) always marking special occasions with thoughtful hand-written cards or calls. Her friends and family eagerly anticipated her famous Christmas cookies each year, as well as her "world-famous" rolls, recipes she lovingly passed down to her children and grandchildren. Her life was a powerful example of love in action; an oracle of compassionate wisdom and a generous spirit for all those whose lives she enriched.

She had eyes that sparkled, a gorgeous smile that melted hearts and a way of doing things entirely her own way. Above all, she was devoted to her family and found her greatest joy in time spent with them.

She is survived by her daughters, Ruthie McCrary, MD (David Butcher, MD) and Crystal McCrary (Raymond J. McGuire); her five grandchildren, Alexis Butcher, William Butcher, Cole Anthony, Ella Anthony, and Leo McGuire: and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of nearly sixty-eight years, Magellan G. McCrary, Jr.; her sister Frances Raines; and her brother Hugh F. Barrington, Jr.

She celebrated her 100th Birthday this past October—a milestone she embraced with joy and gratitude.

Thelma B. McCrary lived fully, loved deeply and in every sense, did it her way.

What a ride!

A Memorial Celebration is being planned for 10:00 am June 13, 2026 at Christ Church Detroit, 960 E. Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in memory of
Thelma B. McCrary, to Christ Church, 960 E. Jefferson Ave
Detroit, MI 48207

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