Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Mary McQuiston Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary McQuiston
Suzanna Carney
October 31, 2021
Remembering all the laughter, joy and CONFIDENCE Mrs McQuiston inspired in all of her students! Thank you! I hope to do this in all my interactions with my grandchildren and their friends
Anita Davenport
November 12, 2010
Like so many others I had the pleasure of benefiting from Junior Theatre with Mrs. McQuiston at the helm. She was a true "trooper" and I aspired to be the same. Her tireless dedication and standards for excellence made us feel like we were on Broadway instead of Van Buren St. She ran a tight organized ship which was not an easy task with over 50 school aged children milling around, flying high off of Halloween candy and her approval.
My fondest memories of her however happened off-stage one sweet summer as I reached High School. I worked alongside her in a summer theatre workshop. Any instruction I could give the children paled in comparison to her but she treated me as her equal. I treasured the hours we spent in that dusty costume tunnel of the Learning Center which bears her name, digging for costume "gold". She would pick up a garment repeatedly with a story to tell of who wore it when. This task always took longer than it should but I didn't mind being "in the trenches" with a legend!
Mrs. McQuiston I thank you for sharing your passion with us and it became mine. You've touched me with your graciousness, dedication...and boy could you tell a good story!
george & karen harter- tatum
November 12, 2010
dan: what fabulous legacy you have to remember and share, what gracious and grand contribution both your parents have made, to community, individuals, your immediate and extended families. with bright smile and earnest thought, the charge is left 2 u and yours: carry on !
Elyce Meador
November 11, 2010
What a beautiful website - my condolences from afar. Having lost both my parents in 2004 - you have my deepest sympathies.
Mary Jane (Allen) Hollister
November 9, 2010
My sympathy to her family...she was absolutely wonderful! I looked forward to the plays she directed when I was a child...they were some of the best times of my childhood. She was a treasure!
November 8, 2010
As Dan's mother-in-law. I met Mary at formal family occasions--weddings, baptisms, and her dear husband's funeral. I certainly felt her warmth, grace and love of humanity. But it was when my husband and I drove from Columbus Ohio to Battle Creek for
Thanksgiving in 2004 in a blinding snowstorm, that I became even more aware of her great kindness, and humor. I'll always remember that twinkle in her eye!
Our drive had been very stressful--high winds in a high top van. not able to read any exit signs! But what a greeting we got--she was a great hostess and I remember it as one of the best Thanksgivings ever. A truly great lady, a giving productive life--we will all treasure her memory and her legacy of love and service. Her spirit lives on in her wonderful family. Penny Perkins, Columbus Ohio
Barb (Folkert) Helbling
November 8, 2010
I was so saddened to read of Mary's passing. She had such an influence on so many children in Battle Creek. I am honored to have had the pleasure to have worked with her. She will be missed by so many. What a wonderful lady. My sympathy to her family.
Barb (Folkert) Helbling
November 8, 2010
I was so saddened to read of Mary's passing. She had such an influence on so many children in Battle Creek. I am honored to have had the pleasure to have worked with her. She will be missed by so many. What a wonderful lady. My sympathy to her family.
Mark Behnke
November 8, 2010
My only Sister, Suzanna (Behnke) Carney who played Snow White in 1971 came home one day after practice and told me that Mrs. McQuiston needed a young man to fill in for the Hunter. Evidentally the real bounty Hunter wasn't able to play his role. We had only a few days to learn the lines and I accepted the responsibility. From that day forward, it was almost like Mrs. McQuiston could never pay me back for jumping in a the last moment as the Hunter. Every time that I would run into Mrs. McQuiston she would tell everyone that, "do you know that this young man filled in as Hunter for Snow White?" I loved it a lot and my debut in acting begain in 1971 and ended that same year. However, I never forgot Mrs. McQuiston and she signed my petition for City Commission every year that I ran for public office in Battle Creek. Her daughter would always make certain that I had a container of fudge as I left with my petition signed by Mrs. McQuiston. May she rest in peace and I hope that we can make theatre in Battle Creek even better because of her legacy. God Bless Mary McQuiston!
Clyde & Marcie Reynolds
November 8, 2010
Malisa, Jamo & Dan and families: You will never know how much I loved your mother. She was a wonderful neighbor, a loving friend and such an outstanding community volunteer. Our sons loved visiting with her and your dad and hearing about all their adventures. What a legacy she leaves to Battle Creek. Although we haven't seen her much in the last several years, we will miss her so much. I'm sorry we can't be there for her service. Blessings to you all. Lovingly, Clyde & Marcie
Mark Behnke
November 8, 2010
Mrs. McQuiston lived next door to my great-grandfather, my great-uncle, and my sister's family. She was one of the kindest, warmest, most wonderful people I have had the pleasure of knowing. That says nothing of the impact she had on my life by giving me an opportunity to participate in Junior Theatre...or the impact that she had on my waistline with her delicious fudge. She will certainly be missed.
My condolences to Malisa and the entire McQuiston family.
Kristi Hall
November 8, 2010
I was in Junior Theater in 1982—1984. Mrs. McQuiston was an AMAZING person!! I have some wonderful memories being a part of these plays. I will never forget these experiences or Mrs. McQuiston. I still have my script from Snow White!! As an adult I would run into Mrs. McQuiston and she would remember my name!!! She will be greatly missed!
Annette Carter
November 8, 2010
I had the opportunity to be a part of Junior Theatre playing "Sneezy Dwarf" in Snow White. Mrs. McQuiston allowed me to still have such a great childhood memory. She will be missed by so many people in the community for all the wonderful things she made happen. My sympathy goes out to her family in their loss.
Annette Carter
November 8, 2010
Being a part of Junior Theatre playing "Sneezy" in Snow White was such a great experience. Mrs. McQuiston played such an important part in making this such a great memory for me. She was a gift to the community and will truly be missed by so many.
Jane (Bundy) Lynch
November 8, 2010
I called her my "Favorite Lady." Mary was my confirmation mentor when I was 15 years old. She was such a kind, loving person who always made me feel so special. Mary has touched my heart in so many ways and will never be forgotten.
Jane Bundy-Lynch
November 8, 2010
I called her my "Favorite Lady." Mary was my confirmation mentor when I was 15 years old. She touched my life in so many ways as she helped me grow in my faith. She will ALWAYS hold a very special place in my heart. Jane (Bundy) Lynch
November 8, 2010
I was always impressed by how she remembered my name years after meeting her. Condolences to Melissa and family.
Jeff Brackett, Miami, Florida
November 8, 2010
What a Lady, A real Lady, That will never be replaced or forgotten. Mary and I worked on her appliances for over 30 years. Mary was a friend of my Mother's for at least 50 years. Thankyou for beng a Real friend.
Steven and Estella Morrison
Mary (Unrue) Young
November 8, 2010
I had the pleasure of being reared by "Listen" with many hours of "Hush" thrown in. Together, these two women taught me more than they will ever know about being strong, happy, and who I am.
Mrs. McQuiston was a class-act, on stage and off (even 'though she did keep her soup in a drawer!)
Dan Fullenkamp
November 8, 2010
Lots of fond memories with Mary. To capsulate best, if I could choose a grandmother from anyone in the world, Mary would be mine.
Sean Hewlett
November 8, 2010
What an awesome person. Mrs McQuistion will be deeply missed. I had the opportunity to be part of Junior Theater in the mid-80's. She brought me out of my shell and opened up a whole new world for me. She took a little boy who belted out "Maybe" from Annie during tryouts and help make me into the man I am today.
Later during High School she came to a performance and she remembered my name, what plays of hers I was in and the roles I played.
Again she will be missed.
Sean Hewlett
Susan Buckley
November 8, 2010
Mary,
It was an honor and priviledge to know you. I always enjoyed our conversations and your stories. Thank you and Jim for giving so much of your time, energy and love to Battle Creek. This community, particularly the Battle Creek Public Schools, will be forever grateful to both of you for the legacy you left. God bless your family in this time of sorrow.
Carol Adler
November 8, 2010
A true treasure to the children of Battle Creek and the entire community. Thanks also for sharing your delicious fudge. My sympathies to the McQuiston family.
November 8, 2010
Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family, Sincerely David Bowers
Vianne Nichols
November 7, 2010
Over the years, I had the privilege of serving with Mary on several community outreach programs. She was always a joy to spend time with, and her chocolate fudge was the best! What a legacy she leaves to my beloved hometown.
Teresa Poole
November 7, 2010
Mary was a wonderful person with a most generous heart. She will be greatly missed by all. My sympathies to her family.
Eddie Hodges
November 7, 2010
I am deeply sadden by the passing of Mrs. McQuiston. I loved what she represented, warmth, humor, kindness, and most importantly inclusion of all people. She treated everyone with the same respect and kindness. Whenever I ran into her she would always remember me, and my family. I too was a part of Junior Theater for 4 years 70-74. I remembered playing Toto in the Wizard of Oz and Mrs. McQuiston brought in Ray Bolger THE Scarecrow to meet us. What excitement. Every time over the years that I would share my experiences with her and Junior Theater a tear would come to me eye. She was our mother as well. It was the Junior Theater experience that gave me the passion and interest to perform in theater even today when I do a production I think of her. She attended a college production I did at KCC in 81, and a Civic Theater production I did in the early 90's. I was greeted with a warm hug, and a thumbs up. I knew at some point our Father would call her home as he will for all of us, and I know he greeted her with a smile and said Job Well Done my child. My god bless the family with comfort at this time. BCCHS 1980
Megan McQuiston
November 7, 2010
My "Gammy" was the most loving and caring woman I have ever known. I am her first grandchild and she taught me so many values. I can not thank her enough for teaching me such valuable lessons. I can take all the advice she has given me and apply it to my life today. I can't wait to take those lessons and put them to use. There will never be a moment that she is not in my heart. I Love You Gammy!!!! xoxoxoxo
Nora Allen Fleury and Jane Allen
November 7, 2010
If we Hush and Listen Mary will be in our lives forever. She was a wonderful woman who touched thousands. We will miss you.
Megan McQuiston
November 7, 2010
My "Gammy" was the most loving and caring grandma. I could not ask for anything more. Being the first grandchild was a privelege. I got to see my grandma reach out to others over the years that she was here. She spoiled me to death. She taught me so many values that I can apply to my life today. I will always cherish them and try to walk in my loving "Gammy"s footsteps.
Bob and Jackie Davidson
November 7, 2010
Jim, Dan, and Melissa,
Our condolences. There are so many memories; from Bob's first days in Battle Creek at the age of 6 y/o to the recent visits at NorthPointe Woods.
As a child you remember her kindness and dedication to Family and Friends, and "Aunt Mary's Fudge". And as an adult, you look fondly on her amazing memory, admirable and unending support of community and indefatigable personality.
She was truly a remarkable woman and role model. A great friend to Bob and our family. She will be missed.
Fondly, Bob and Jackie
November 7, 2010
Mary,
It was an honor to know you, and spend time with you. You will be missed.
Walter and Lee Anne Noga
Renee Anderson
November 7, 2010
Dear Mrs. McQuiston, Thank you for letting me be the Fish Footman. Troop on! With love and happy memories, Renee Anderson
Steve & Julie Wentworth
November 7, 2010
Our condolences to Dan, M'Lissa and James on the loss of your mother, Mary McQuiston. She touched the lives of many of us through the years with Junior Theatre and by her example of community involvement. I'm sure she never forgot a name or family connection. Those who knew her were blessed in so many ways. Rest in peace, dear Mary.
Darla Moore
November 7, 2010
My condolences to the McQuiston family. I also was in a play under the leadership of Mrs. McQuiston in the early 70s. She was such a sweet lady
Nancy Markos Vitale
November 7, 2010
I was sadden to hear of the passing of Mary McQuiston.
I was in Junior Theater under the leadship of Mary.
She helped me to be a leader in my adult life.
Mary never forgot a name and a smile was on her face that
said I'm so glad to see you.
I will always remember Mary with fond memories
for all that she has done not only for me but for
the countless others that she has helped too.
Sincerely,
Nancy Markos Vitale
Montreal Canada
Kelli Johnson
November 7, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the McQuiston family. I was one of the many people Mrs. McQuiston helped during my childhood years. I was in Junior Theatre for 4 years. She was an inspiration and will truly be missed! RIP Mrs. McQuiston
Kelli (LeBarre) Johnson
November 6, 2010
Dan and Family,
I sincerely offer my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your mother. She was a great lady. The props were secured for
our production of My Fair Lady, our senior year at BBCHS, 1969 because of her
guidance and graciousness. I pray you find comfort with all the memories your family and friends share with you.
In His love,
Linda Collins Reynolds, Knoxville, Tennessee
Claudia Edwards
November 6, 2010
Sweet Mary - made the best Scottish shortbread in the world. We will miss her.
Kelley Richardson
November 6, 2010
The one thing that gave me koy during a very difficult youth was theater. Mrs. McQuiston's Jr. Theater gave me many hours of joy and a feeling of acceptance. I learned much from her. I spent nearly all of my spare time in the McQuiston Learning Center during High School. Her generosity and love of children has touched so many including me and will continue for generations to come.
November 6, 2010
Melissa, Dan and Jim, I was blessed with meeting Mary in her last years. I didn't know her when she ran the junior theater but have heard so many wonderful things from other people. The woman I became so fond of was a wonderful, kind woman. She always had a kind word to say to everyone she encountered and always made everyone feel so welcome. I will miss her and also all of you during your visits.
Lori Matthews
Rob South
November 6, 2010
My sympathy to the family and many friends. Her spirit lives on in the many people she taught and mentored through the years. Thank you, Mary McQuiston, for all that you did for me and all of the many children who found wisdom in your teaching. I will never forget you.
Wendy Tackett
November 6, 2010
Mary was one of my favorite people in the whole world. She was so genuine and loving...and always welcomed me into her home with a peanut butter sandwich at the ready. I'll miss our visits. You've been a blessing.
Karen Clark
November 6, 2010
Thousands of Battle Creek children benefited from Mary McQuiston's Junior Theater, including myself. It was very exciting to be chosen to be in the play and then perform on stage. I am sure that many of us benefited in the later years of our lives from what we learned while we were part of Junior Theater. All of us felt her love as she worked with us on the plays. I just remember a very beautiful, motherly woman. I only met her son Dan, a fellow french horn player (Dan played the french horn beautifully while in high school and inspired me to choose that instrument when it was my turn to join the band). Thank you to the McQuiston children for sharing your mother with us all those years ago.
Karen Clark (BCCHS Class of 1973)
November 6, 2010
Dearest "Hush"
The world is very much diminished by your death. I have never and will never ever - forget the wonderful times we had together. Condolenses to your family.
Always my love,
"Listen"
Suanne Muniz
November 6, 2010
Mrs. McQuiston Touched so many lives and I loved her so very much. Mrs. mcQuiston directed three plays I was in in the late 80's I have thought about her often over the years. the community has lost a wonderful woman. My deepest sympathies to the family.
Suanne M (Walters) Muniz
Paige Sims
November 6, 2010
My deepest condolences go out the the family of the beloved Mary McQuiston. She touched the lives of many at all ages and her legacy will forever live on. Thank you Mary, your presence will be missed but your memory will live forever through Junior Theater and each and every performance at the McQuiston Learning Center.
Sally and Tom Davidson
November 6, 2010
Dear Melissa,Dan, and Jim,
Tom and I were saddened to learn of your Mother's death. She was a great lady and we will remember with fondness her wonderful laugh and sense of humor. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. With love, Tom and Sally
Marilyn Langridge Stewart
November 6, 2010
Mary was such a loving, generous, and amazing woman! She had the patience and heart of an angel. I will always remember her as a wonderful theatrical "schoolmarm". I was involved in 7 of her productions of Junior Theatre from 5th to my senior year, ranging from "Snow White" in the 7th grade to "Listen" in High School. She will be greatly missed! Rest in Peace, Mrs. McQuiston!!!
November 6, 2010
Some of my fondest childhood memories were of Junior Theatre. My favorite role was as the Queen of Hearts with Mary's daughter as the Cheshire Cat.
She was a truly wonderful presence for the children of and the City of Battle Creek.
Linda Wright Schirmer
Denny & Pam Welling
November 6, 2010
We have lived next door to Mary since coming to Battle Creek. Few people can say they once knew a person that was "larger than life". Mrs.McQuiston will always be ours. Her sons and daughter are cut of the same honorable, kind,and generous cloth.It has been our pleasure to know them also.
November 6, 2010
My condolences to the Family. A wonderful woman and friend. She was not only warm, charming personality, gracious, and a friend to all. Mary will be missed. Bob Wolfe, Tiburon, California
Scott White
November 6, 2010
With deepest sympathy. Good bye to a Grand Lady.
Julie McDaniel
November 6, 2010
My deepest sympathies and sincere condolences. Mrs. McQuiston; Mary, was a wonderful, kind and giving person. She was a good friend of our family for many years and she will be sadly missed. It was an honor and a privilege to have known her and Mr. McQuiston; Jim as I have known both since childhood. Again, I am so sorry for your loss.
Julie McDaniel
The Junior Theatre clowns "Hush & Listen"
November 6, 2010
Battle Creek JUNIOR THEATRE mourns the passing of Mary McQuiston, the Director of Junior Theatre for so many years. Her efforts toward so many children all those years ripples across the pond of many lives, farther than she probably ever imagined. We salute Mary, who loved children and put them first. This is her legacy.
Suzanna Kay Carney
November 6, 2010
With great Joy, I remember the loving guidance Mrs. McQuiston gave each and every student participating in Junior Theater. What wonderful childhood memories of the singing and acting!!! God certainly has a special angel he brought home with Mary McQuiston. May her memory continue on forever in the Battle Creek area.
Suzanna Kay Carney (Behnke) Snow White 1971
my mom Betty Behnke (Murray) Snow White in 1951
Rita DeVore
November 6, 2010
I am so very sorry to see that Mrs. McQuiston has passed. What a wonderful, charming, kind and caring woman she was. She was one of my top ten all time favorite customers at Shrank's. She had such an easy smile that seemed to invite people to want to talk to her. I was very happy to have known her and had a chance to serve her.
She will be dearly missed.
Rita DeVore
Showing 1 - 58 of 58 results
Make a Donation
in Mary McQuiston's name
Memorial Events
for Mary McQuiston
How to support Mary's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Mary McQuiston's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
