ISAACSON, Mary Ophelia

The Daily Miner, Kingman, AZ - Published on February 8, 2012 - Mary Ophelia Isaacson, 80, passed away into heaven on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2012, at home with her son Richard. Mary was born in Donna, Texas, on Sept. 28, 1931, as the eldest daughter to Francis and Altha O'Leary. At age 13, her family relocated to Montana. Mary graduated from Helena High in 1949 and then moved back to Texas to live with her Uncle Woodrow and Aunt Silvia. While there, she visited her younger sister, Jimmie, and her husband, Troy, who were stationed at the AF Base in Roswell, N.M. They introduced her to Richard A. Isaacson. Mary and Richard A. Isaacson Sr. were married in Roswell, on March 7, 1952, until his death 56 years later. Mary was a homemaker who followed her husband Richard as he traveled in the military. She was very active in the church wherever she lived, always serving in the children's ministries. After Richard retired from the Air Force, Mary became an active member of the Kingman community and focused much of her life supporting children and education. She was a natural leader who served in local leadership positions volunteering in the girl and boy scouts, various PTA's and the Golden Valley Library. In addition, she was instrumental in bringing a park to the children of Golden Valley. She also served as a Senior Regent of the Kingman Moose Lodge and was involved in raising funds for orphans supported by the Lodge. In order to assist her children attend college, she went to work at the local water company in Golden Valley, eventually becoming general manager. Mary was an avid reader and enjoyed playing games with her children and grandchildren. Pinochle, dominoes, softball and Yahtzee were among her favorites. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her mother, father and brothers, Francis (Tex), David, Dean and Darrell. Mary is survived by her daughters, Jeanie (Peter Schmitz) and Janie (Richard Schultz); her sons, Richard, Arthur (Michelle), John and Robert; her sisters, Jimmie, Jeanette, Esther and Sharon; her brothers, Avery (Red), Earl (Coconut) and Carroll (Curly); her grandchildren, Tracy, Vincent, James, David, Mary and Nathan; and her great-grandchildren, Jessica, Addison, Kaydence and Rowan. A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday, at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85301, with services starting at noon and interment will follow at Resthaven Park Cemetery (Glendale). A reception will follow inside at West Resthaven Funeral Home after graveside services. Condolences may be offered at www.chapelofthechimesmortuary.com.