Classmate Mark Manning has notified us of another passing just a few days ago.
Mary Margaret Shanklin passed away after a long illness on January 11, 2020. She had been in a nursing home for an extended time but was able to attend, albeit briefly, her 50th high school reunion with the Southwest Class of 1968.Mary Margaret Shanklin passed away after a long illness on January 11, 2020.
Mark remained in touch with Mary Margaret and her famiily through the years and heard that she really wanted to come to our 50th reunion. Through the generous donations from many of you, we were able to send a caregiver to the facility where she lived, who helped her get dressed and accompanied her to the Carriage. Many of you were able to visit with her and although her sight was poor, she sooo appreciated being there and recognized many of the names of old, dear friends.
Hoping that the year 2020 brings lots of joy and happiness to all and that we don't have to stay in touch through our IN MEMORY site.
Harvey Cohen
I did not know Mary but Helens remembrance was heart warming.Cyndi Kaufman (Goldfarb)
Helen, thank you so much for your tender and touching words. What a beautiful story you have shared of a life well lived! Sincere condolences to you on the loss of your dear friend, Mary Margaret. I wish I had known her better....what flair! What talent! Clearly a fascinating person. Cyndi Kaufman Goldfarb
Carolee Burns (Hayes)
Thank you, Helen. I knew Mary Margaret well during high school, but lost track of her after that. I appreciate your sharing her story. She was a warm and talented young woman when I knew her. I always enjoyed her insights and the thoughtful conversations we had together. It makes me sad to know she struggled so at the end. She had much love and energy to offer the world and I am certain she left it a better place.
Royal Scanlon
Helen this is a lovely elegy and wonderful story. I have no doubt that Mary was a dear soul and that the friendship you shared was a blessing to both of your lives and families. Thank you so much for sharing.
Gayle Price (Krigel)
Helen--your beautiful post about Mary Margaret brought tears to my eyes. I had no idea that you knew her so well and that she introduced you and Steve--especially heart-warming since you and I (and Bruce) became Kuzzins because of your marriage. Your comments were a lovely tribute and beautiful way to remember Mary Margaret, rather than through her health struggles the last few years. It was truly touching to see her at the reunion--just getting ready took a lot of energy but she powered through and we were all so glad she could come! Hope you're doing well--miss you!
Kathy Sage (Reynolds)
Dear Helen, it is said if you have one good friend in your lifetime you are Blessed. It appears this friendship you had with Mary was truly a Blessing.
Andrea Thompson (Jarvis)
I was so very sad to hear of Mary Margaret's passing. What a blessing it was to see her years back at the gathering at Southwest when it became a charter school. Mary Margaret and I became friends about 6th grade when I felt like a fish out of water as the 'newbie' to everything. We walked a lot together and years later she was the one person aside from family who recalled our conversation about my family difficulties at the time. I thought she was so beautiful and talented in so many ways, I found myself in awe that she was my friend. It was difficult seeing how challenging her final years must have been, but she was still that lovely, gentle soul at our reunion. Heaven has a beautiiful angel.
Melinda Knight
I was very sorry to hear the news, and I so appreciate all the thoughtful tributes. She was such a talented and giving person. Helen, what a beautfiful story--which I had never heard. I had tried contacting Mary Margaret a number of times several years ago but could not reach her. I missed seeing her at the reunion, as she left before I had a chance. I tried again afterwards, but I'm not sure she was able to use email. Is there a memorial planned? I know her children Benjamin and Juliette live in the area. This site has been so helpful in sharing news, even when it is as sad as this.
Frances Moore
Mary Margaret & I met in the 8th grade as the lone females in a sea of males in class. We sat together & became comrades. I remember she was also close friends with Hal White (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halbert_White) who passed in 2012. Mary Margaret was a stand-out in grace, poise, & beauty … & I know that “nice” is an overused word, but I can think of none better … she was a nice person. I’ve always admired her. Rest in peace sweetie!
Judi Lyddon (Adams)
I remember her from HS....always kind, smiling, thoughtful, brilliant, and graceful...plus that long blond hair. She made very one she came in contact with feel appreciated. I think we were in the after-school Literary Club together....quite the leader!