With gratitude for the life we shared, With sorrow for the future we shan't, We come together to celebrate thee Mary Alice, my love, my life, my person. We invite you to think about what you would say to Mary Alice if she were here and leave it as a comment below (or email it to thoughts@madmemories.com if you would prefer). These messages will be used as part of her celebration of life.
34 entries.
Mrs. Davis,
It was such a great honor having you as my physics teacher not only that, but you were also the only teacher I had class with EVERYDAY of my senior year! You were truly a force and a lovely soul. Thank you for the positive spirit and kindness you’ve shown me. Although senior year wasn’t as easy as I wished it was, you encouraged me to keep going and for that, THANK YOU MRS. DAVIS. Your smile will be remembered by so many people myself included. With a sincerely grateful heart, sending your loved ones my condolences and May you rest in love.
Love,
Grace Mauga
It was such a great honor having you as my physics teacher not only that, but you were also the only teacher I had class with EVERYDAY of my senior year! You were truly a force and a lovely soul. Thank you for the positive spirit and kindness you’ve shown me. Although senior year wasn’t as easy as I wished it was, you encouraged me to keep going and for that, THANK YOU MRS. DAVIS. Your smile will be remembered by so many people myself included. With a sincerely grateful heart, sending your loved ones my condolences and May you rest in love.
Love,
Grace Mauga
MAD!
I knew you were a real one the moment that I met yet, and you proved it without even knowing it in every interaction from that moment on.
You had such a subtle silliness that when brought a little closer, I realized it was more than just being silly. You had a good sense of humor made even funnier by the memes you loved…the ultimate inside jokes.
I like chatting with you, sharing funny stories, and constantly questioning and thinking about what we can do better, together as teachers.
Only a person with a heart as big as yours could love dogs (and people) like you did.
I wouldn't be me without you and I'm glad to have been impacted by you in the little time I knew you. I know others feel the same.
I knew you were a real one the moment that I met yet, and you proved it without even knowing it in every interaction from that moment on.
You had such a subtle silliness that when brought a little closer, I realized it was more than just being silly. You had a good sense of humor made even funnier by the memes you loved…the ultimate inside jokes.
I like chatting with you, sharing funny stories, and constantly questioning and thinking about what we can do better, together as teachers.
Only a person with a heart as big as yours could love dogs (and people) like you did.
I wouldn't be me without you and I'm glad to have been impacted by you in the little time I knew you. I know others feel the same.
Mary Alice-While I didn't know you well, your kindness impacted me during the pandemic. I was having a hard time with Canvas, and you sent me a video that helped me out. And whenever I saw you around campus, you were so kind.
Mrs. Davis,
I remember walking into your classroom on the first day of school & right away seeing the happy & bright smile she always had in class. School was never fun for me but you made class fun & actually made me excited & happy to go to class and learn about human bio. You were an important figure to me & someone whom i always treated with the upmost respect & always made sure my peers did also because it’s what she deserved. Gone way too soon. You will never be forgotten for always bringing light & energy into the classroom.
I remember walking into your classroom on the first day of school & right away seeing the happy & bright smile she always had in class. School was never fun for me but you made class fun & actually made me excited & happy to go to class and learn about human bio. You were an important figure to me & someone whom i always treated with the upmost respect & always made sure my peers did also because it’s what she deserved. Gone way too soon. You will never be forgotten for always bringing light & energy into the classroom.
Fatima and I had Ms Davis our senior year and cherished every day with the best anatomy teacher ever. Ms Davis was one of the few teachers who could get me to understand math and I will never forget the kindness she showed to every single one of her students. Walking in to her class every morning senior year gave me something to look forward to and a great start to every day- I will continue to work hard and be kind for you Ms Davis. Hearing this news was heartbreaking and I hope all that were close to Ms Davis and her family feel supported and love during this time of loss.
Mrs. Davis,
I had the privilege of sitting in your zoom class, it was a tough time but you always kept a positive attitude for your students. Your energy radiated endless positivity. I remember presenting the idea of an HCA instagram during Friday HCA teacher meetings, I found comfort in your smile as I stood in front of all you. Thank you, you’re forever in our hearts. Gone way too soon, your bright soul will live on forever.
Sending endless love,
Angelique Rodriguez
I had the privilege of sitting in your zoom class, it was a tough time but you always kept a positive attitude for your students. Your energy radiated endless positivity. I remember presenting the idea of an HCA instagram during Friday HCA teacher meetings, I found comfort in your smile as I stood in front of all you. Thank you, you’re forever in our hearts. Gone way too soon, your bright soul will live on forever.
Sending endless love,
Angelique Rodriguez
Mrs.Davis,
I was in your class for a year, but throughout my highschool life you were there to help. I enjoyed learning science with you. Your enthusiasm when teaching was super radiating. You touched so many of our hearts. I was so sad to hear of your passing. Rest In Peace and always in your students hearts.
love,
Angel Velasco-Carlos
I was in your class for a year, but throughout my highschool life you were there to help. I enjoyed learning science with you. Your enthusiasm when teaching was super radiating. You touched so many of our hearts. I was so sad to hear of your passing. Rest In Peace and always in your students hearts.
love,
Angel Velasco-Carlos
MAD,
Too soon, far too soon!
Save me a seat, I hope to banter with you again someday.
-Greg
As I sit in my classroom, our shared classroom for your year as a student teacher at SEQ, preparing for Back 2 School Night, with your #19 jersey hanging on the back wall, I think about the conversation you would have had with the parents you would meet if you were here. I am reminded of how you handled your first B2SN. While I tried to demonstrate a learning activity or to cram in a bunch of logistical information into the 10 minutes we have with the parents, you sat down, made eye contact, and calmly demonstrated to the parents the thoughtfulness you would bring to your classes each day, the compassion for each student's unique situation and learning style, and the dedication you would make to helping each student progress in their learning journey. And then, the next day and every school day after that, you followed through with that commitment. I was so impressed, and I have been inspired to be that authentic, compassionate, and dedicated to helping every student who sits in my class.
As my student teacher, you taught me so much more than I taught you.
As my colleague, you led the charge to move away from memorization of material and designed so many activities that would help our students to think, and demonstrate that thinking – to make connections, use reasoning to draw conclusions, to use evidence to back up their ideas. You added so much to our course, and even more to our teacher team.
Your physical absence last year was remarkable. But the impact you had on the students and educators you interacted with was, and is, profound. You will always be in my heart, and on my mind as I strive to honor your dedication to helping our kiddos learn to think, to notice, and to wonder.
Missing you,
Greg
Too soon, far too soon!
Save me a seat, I hope to banter with you again someday.
-Greg
As I sit in my classroom, our shared classroom for your year as a student teacher at SEQ, preparing for Back 2 School Night, with your #19 jersey hanging on the back wall, I think about the conversation you would have had with the parents you would meet if you were here. I am reminded of how you handled your first B2SN. While I tried to demonstrate a learning activity or to cram in a bunch of logistical information into the 10 minutes we have with the parents, you sat down, made eye contact, and calmly demonstrated to the parents the thoughtfulness you would bring to your classes each day, the compassion for each student's unique situation and learning style, and the dedication you would make to helping each student progress in their learning journey. And then, the next day and every school day after that, you followed through with that commitment. I was so impressed, and I have been inspired to be that authentic, compassionate, and dedicated to helping every student who sits in my class.
As my student teacher, you taught me so much more than I taught you.
As my colleague, you led the charge to move away from memorization of material and designed so many activities that would help our students to think, and demonstrate that thinking – to make connections, use reasoning to draw conclusions, to use evidence to back up their ideas. You added so much to our course, and even more to our teacher team.
Your physical absence last year was remarkable. But the impact you had on the students and educators you interacted with was, and is, profound. You will always be in my heart, and on my mind as I strive to honor your dedication to helping our kiddos learn to think, to notice, and to wonder.
Missing you,
Greg
Mary Alice was one of the kindest people I ever met, even in high school when we are figuring ourselves out. I remember going to prom with Mary Alice. She was a wonderful person to talk to and someone I have sincerely missed in the years since we all went our own ways.
Mary Alice, you were loved and will always be missed.
Mary Alice, you were loved and will always be missed.
Oh Mary Alice, you were one of the most delightful people I've ever known. I loved being at the same high school with you, and the fact that my elementary school friends became your middle school friends and then I got to know you in high school. Hanging out with you felt like more than that- it was always like we were co-conspirators in the adventure. I am so sad to hear of your passing and will miss you deeply. I've just been sorting through old boxes and am very grateful for the wonderful photos I have of you from high school, and would be happy to share them with any of your family who would like them. I am so glad though not at all surprised to see how loved and supported you have been as I know you provided love and support to many.
Dear Mary Alice,
My fondest memory of you was when you came for Christmas one year when I had finally grown up. We could share so many stories and details of our lives. You made a point to try out the big sister role with me and it was very special since due to our circumstances we didn’t grow up together. I learned so much about you that Christmas and realized how much cooler your life was than just being in school and working with animals (at that time). That Christmas made the times after when we saw each other so much more meaningful, I felt a sisterly connection instead of you just being a distant relative. I loved being able to see you find true happiness with Kishore. I have found that as well with my husband. I’m thankful for the memories and love you shared with your closest loved ones. We will all honor those and cherish your memory.
Until our next meeting,
Sending love
Love Laurel
My fondest memory of you was when you came for Christmas one year when I had finally grown up. We could share so many stories and details of our lives. You made a point to try out the big sister role with me and it was very special since due to our circumstances we didn’t grow up together. I learned so much about you that Christmas and realized how much cooler your life was than just being in school and working with animals (at that time). That Christmas made the times after when we saw each other so much more meaningful, I felt a sisterly connection instead of you just being a distant relative. I loved being able to see you find true happiness with Kishore. I have found that as well with my husband. I’m thankful for the memories and love you shared with your closest loved ones. We will all honor those and cherish your memory.
Until our next meeting,
Sending love
Love Laurel
I only met Mary Alice once. She helped me get my PWD in 2016. She coached me in getting one and came to my house with two of them so my husband could see if his allergies would tolerate them.
I emotionally needed a dog at this time. She was a godsend and went above and beyond for a total stranger. Her kindness changed my life.
For her friends and family, I’m sorry for your loss. She’s truly a beautiful soul.
I emotionally needed a dog at this time. She was a godsend and went above and beyond for a total stranger. Her kindness changed my life.
For her friends and family, I’m sorry for your loss. She’s truly a beautiful soul.
Mary Alice’s kindness and generosity spelled themselves out in the joy she took in sharing her knowledge with others, whether they were her math students or a relative stranger — me — whose new rescue dog needed a wiser hand than mine. She offered to train him, hands on, a time-consuming challenge that she greeted with a smile. We had only met once, at a luncheon party, where I remember she was quick to laugh and where we both enjoyed our food. It was a blessing to have known her bright spirit, if only much too briefly.
I have purposefully not written an entry yet. I still need some time to gather my thoughts. While I did not raise you or even spend an inordinate amount of time with you as you were so far away I considered you a daughter and always sought to treat you as such. I only got to spend a few hours alone with you over the years and those times were filled with fun and empathy. You were a soft, sweet woman with a huge amount of love which you shared with thousands of needy caring animals and children. There were always needy baby animals of every kind in your home which you were caring for. You gave freely and without thought for yourself even until the end. Your relationship with Kishore was the sweetest I have ever seen. You had a way of letting him be the head of the house and yet you guided him in every way. I am saddened for him beyond belief as I know the experience he has to move forward with. I know that you would want him to remember you always with love & laughter in lieu of tears. I reserve the right to add my feelings in the future as now it is painful to even look at your picture. I was here and you were there even in the last year not through choice. I need some time to put more into words. God speed MAD, until we meet again! MO
Dear Mary Alice,
We went to middle school together for three short years and reconnected on Facebook just liking dog pics and occasional school photos, as you do. When I'd see your face I'd think about how you don't age a bit, such a juxtaposition to the old soul you carried. I remember your voice so clearly, with its perfect deadpan delivery, and how your southern accent thickened when you'd get annoyed. May your memory be of comfort to your loved ones. Good bye old friend.
We went to middle school together for three short years and reconnected on Facebook just liking dog pics and occasional school photos, as you do. When I'd see your face I'd think about how you don't age a bit, such a juxtaposition to the old soul you carried. I remember your voice so clearly, with its perfect deadpan delivery, and how your southern accent thickened when you'd get annoyed. May your memory be of comfort to your loved ones. Good bye old friend.
Mary,
You believed in me from the first time we met at BFLA, and gave me so many opportunities when the need for bottle baby puppy fosters would arise. You seemed to know how much I needed that activity back then as I navigated the newly experienced loss of my son.you helped me more than you know.
I'm so thankful for all the times I was your first go to when the need arose. When you left BFLA to move up north, it just wasn't the same. I just want to say Thank You. And I am so sorry you have left this physical world, but I feel confident that wherever you are it is beautiful and you are whole again.
With love,
Ellen
You believed in me from the first time we met at BFLA, and gave me so many opportunities when the need for bottle baby puppy fosters would arise. You seemed to know how much I needed that activity back then as I navigated the newly experienced loss of my son.you helped me more than you know.
I'm so thankful for all the times I was your first go to when the need arose. When you left BFLA to move up north, it just wasn't the same. I just want to say Thank You. And I am so sorry you have left this physical world, but I feel confident that wherever you are it is beautiful and you are whole again.
With love,
Ellen
Mary Alice,
From the first time I met you, I was absolutely enamored with your calm and consistent presence. You were an absolute joy to work with and be around — you had incredible work ethic and organization — you were so smart and talented, and I learned so much from you. Those days in mission hills were chaotic, but you handled it well, with grace and compassion. Thank you for all you did to make this world a better place, and thank you for all the animals that you saved. I hope you are in the most beautiful place surrounded by loving animals. The world has lost a wonderful human being, and it will never be the same without you.
Sending all of my love to your family friends and loved ones.
– candi (from best friends animal society)
From the first time I met you, I was absolutely enamored with your calm and consistent presence. You were an absolute joy to work with and be around — you had incredible work ethic and organization — you were so smart and talented, and I learned so much from you. Those days in mission hills were chaotic, but you handled it well, with grace and compassion. Thank you for all you did to make this world a better place, and thank you for all the animals that you saved. I hope you are in the most beautiful place surrounded by loving animals. The world has lost a wonderful human being, and it will never be the same without you.
Sending all of my love to your family friends and loved ones.
– candi (from best friends animal society)
I am so sorry to hear about Mary Alice’s passing. We worked together at Best Friends for a while. She was a friend as well as a mentor. She taught me so much. My deepest condolences. She will be missed.
I am so saddened to hear of Mary Alice's passing. I knew her for a while as a coworker at Best Friends Animal Society. When she left for more schooling, I took over her role as foster coordinator and during that brief transitionary period, Mary Alice taught me so much… Ideas and lessons that I still quote to this day, when chatting with others about data analysis and fostering. She was so smart, thoughtful and patient, and had a huge impact on those around her.
Oh I am so sad to hear this news. I met Mary Alice when I first volunteered to foster kittens in the early days of Best Friends in Mission Hills. She was full of expertise, compassion and humor. She saved many lives. I will miss her deeply.