Mary Clarice Schrader, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away leaving behind a life marked by passion and dedication. She was born on April 8, 1930, in Texarkana, specifically the Texas side, as she always made sure people knew. Mary grew up with a strong sense of pride, determination, and warmth that followed her throughout her life.

Mary was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jack Schrader, affectionately known as “Big Jack,” whose 6’6” frame towered over Mary’s 5’1” stature, by her sister, Betty Davis, and her daughter-in-law, Holly Schrader. She is survived by her son, Jack Schrader “Jack Douglas”, and her cherished grandchildren, Cole and Zoe, who all brought her immense joy and pride.

Mary was a lifelong learner and passionate educator. She attended Baylor University from 1949 to 1951, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, and became a member of the Honors Business Organization. She later attended The University of Texas at Austin from 1954 to 1955, earning a Master’s degree in Secondary Education and Teaching. Mary was one of the first women to graduate with a master’s degree in the business program. At the time, very few women pursued degrees in business, making this an achievement that quietly yet powerfully broke barriers for women in the workforce.

Mary dedicated over five decades of her life to education. She began her career at Hubbard High School, where she founded and taught the school’s first drill team. It was there she met her future husband, Big Jack, who coached football and basketball. Mary never missed one of his games and later made sure her son never did either. She went on to teach Vocational Office Education at University High School in Waco, where she became a fierce advocate for young women entering the workforce. Mary worked closely with some of Waco’s largest businesses to secure jobs for “her girls”, guiding them from the classroom to employment. At Richfield High School, Mary taught typing and computer classes and made history as the first teacher in Waco ISD to have a computer in her classroom. It stood as a reflection of her curiosity and forward-thinking spirit.

Mary eventually joined Baylor University, where she would work for over 30 years. She began at the Casey Computer Center in the Hankamer School of Business as a Microsoft Word and Excel expert, teaching professors how to use the new technology. She later assisted retired faculty before settling into a role she truly loved at the Armstrong Browning Library. There, she gave tours, archived books, and served as a liaison for correspondence between the Brownings and dignitaries and notable figures. Mary officially retired in 2022 at the remarkable age of 92.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary was deeply involved in her community and lived her life with integrity and intention. She was known for never breaking a rule, a trait she wore with pride. Whether in the classroom, the workplace, or everyday life, Mary believed in doing things the right way and leading by example. She was an avid member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church and loved teaching Sunday School. She was known for her generosity, especially through her baking. She often baked cakes for friends, family, and the teams that Big Jack coached. One Easter, she famously baked over 40 Easter Bunny cakes, filling the house so completely that Big Jack and Jack Douglas could barely move around it.

Mary also graciously gave her time helping children and elderly members of the community learn how to use their computers. Her love and support for her family never wavered, and she took immense pride in being present for every milestone, game, and achievement. Just two days after having ear surgery, she insisted on attending her son’s baseball All-Star game, sitting in the car in the outfield, wrapped in gauze, because she simply would not miss seeing him play.

Mary Clarice Schrader was, above all, kind. No one ever had anything negative to say about her. She was sweet, giving, supportive, and encouraging. Her impact reached far beyond classrooms and offices and into the hearts of everyone she met. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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