Mary McDougle Nix, beloved wife and "Granny," was a trailblazer in the field of school nutrition. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. Born on November 3, 1936, in Calhoun, Georgia, she was the daughter of Lewis and Beatrice McDougle.

Mary's journey from humble beginnings led to a lifetime of achievement, service, and love. After attending business school, she was encouraged by her devoted husband of 52 years, Gene Nix, to further her education. With his support, she applied to Morris Brown College, where she was awarded a full scholarship and earned a degree in Nutrition and Food Management in 1969. That same fall, she continued her studies at the University of Georgia, where she completed her Master's degree.

Mary's professional legacy is one of remarkable leadership and dedication. She served as Nutrition Director for both Gordon and Bartow Counties, later becoming Area Consultant for the Georgia Department of Education and Nutrition Director for Cobb County Schools. Her impact expanded nationally as she rose to serve as President of both the Georgia School Nutrition Association and the American School Nutrition Association. In 1980, she was honored with the prestigious Silver Plate Award by the International Food Service Manufacturers Association, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the field.

Mary also shared her knowledge through numerous publications. She was the editor of Georgia GEMS; author of Fan Fare-the Georgia Department of Education School Food Newsletter; co-author of ONE, a training series for new employees; and co-author of I Can Manage, a textbook on management techniques in school nutrition programs.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary was known for her deep faith, gentle spirit, and unwavering generosity. She was a cherished member of Sandy Plains Baptist Church, where she adored her Sunday School class and found joy in her community. She loved flowers, sewing, traveling, and watching hummingbirds flock to her feeders. But most of all, Mary loved her family and friends. Her warmth, wisdom, and nurturing heart made her "Granny" to many, far beyond her immediate family. Her hugs, her smile, and the lessons she taught will forever be treasured in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services for Mary M. Nix

Sandy Plains Baptist Church

2825 Sandy Plains Road

Marietta, GA

Wednesday, October 1

Viewing at 9:00 a.m. Service at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Sandy Plains Baptist Church, in honor of Mary's lifelong commitment to faith and service.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Marietta Daily Journal on Oct. 1, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Mary Nix

Sponsored by Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home & Crematory - Marietta Chapel.

2 Entries

Wanda

October 2, 2025

My mother, Mable Mizell, was manager of lunchroom at Osborne High School until 1983 when she retired after 30 yrs with the same school. Mary Nix was one of her friends and mentors that she dearly loved. My sister and I had the pleasure of meeting her and could see why she was such a wonderful, giving and delightful person to all. Prayers and comfort to her family and know that she was such a blessing to so many for all of the knowledge and work that she put into improvement of all lunches for schools across GA..Wanda and Ruth Mizell, Smyrna, Ga

Patricia Gilbert(Pat)

October 1, 2025

All of th Cobb Couny Food Service family who served with Mary have so many memories it would take many volumes to share them all. Most of all to me Mary was a mentor, friend and leader who helped to form the person I am today. so many times family will hear me quote Mary's life lessons. Mary to me was a force of nature who served her God and Savior while serving children and teaching others to have the highest of values. She is not here on this earth anymore but her memory will never die. Cobb County has lost an icon.

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