Mary McWilliam

1936 - 2015

MARY MCWILLIAM Mary McWilliam passed away peacefully on June 30, 2015 in Orland, CA, a victim of Alzheimer's disease. Mary leaves behind an older sister, Elsie Taylor, a nephew Dan Taylor and niece Cheryl Taylor all from Fresno, CA, a nephew, Mark Taylor of Sherman Oaks, CA and close friends. Mary was born in North Hollywood, CA on November 22, 1936 to Thomas and Margaret McWilliam. A few years later, they and older sister Elsie moved to Palo Alto, CA where Mary grew her love for the arts. She became a member and later volunteer for the Palo Alto children's theatre and a member of the school band. Shortly after graduating from Palo Alto High School, Mary began a brief modeling career before attending Oregon State University where she majored in Business. While there Mary became a sister of the Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority. Mary returned to Menlo Park and shortly thereafter opened Country Villa Hairfashions in Portola Valley, a salon she owned and operated for 15 years. Later, drawn to the beauty and serenity of God's country, Mary purchased a ranch in Orland, CA. Mary enjoyed volunteering for the Orland music program, traveling to Ashland, Oregon for the annual Shakespeare Festival with friend, Diane Hoff and sharing her love for Christ to many. Mary retired from the Orland Unified School District after having worked in the library at Orland High School for many years, cherishing her time with the students. Mary had an infectious smile and laugh that drew people to her. In her later years, she would often say "you're a Genie!" a reference to being a "magical" genius. To her family and friends alike, Mary was our genie and will be sorely missed. Per her families' wishes, there will be no local service or memorial. Donations in her memory can be made to the Orland High School library or the Alzheimer's Research Center.