April 9, 2024

Linn County News

Published April 10, 2024

I, Mary Tinsley; being of sound mind and steadfast in my faith died today. My body decided to give out. Here I am, onto my next adventure, carried home to heaven by these wonderful angels shouting, ‘She is here, She is here because she isn’t down there! Oh and what a beautiful journey it was.’

I was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Mary Gillen Thomas and The Great JB on Dec. 15, 1935.

I grew up with my younger brother, John, in Brooklyn; we were definitely an ornery pair to contend with until momma would give us ‘the look’. (Of course, him more than I.) I graduated from All Saints Commercial High and proceeded to find myself working in the banking industry for a number of years in New York and Kansas. I also did private duty home care which I enjoyed - I touched so many lives. My cousin invited me to visit her in Kansas in early 1961, that is where I had a special first date and instantly knew I’d found the one love to spend my life with;Melvin Tinsley, Jr. He asked me to marry him at the end of that evening. Five days later in Miami, Okla., we ‘tied the knot’.

Our adventure together lasted for 58 and 1/2 yrs. We raised two children and lots of animals, had ups and downs, fussed and loved each other through it all.

I leave behind my grown children - Anna and Claudia, their spouses - Steven and Wes; grandchildren - James, Rachel and Meghan; great-grandchildren - Dakota, Aleesa and Lily; and all of my many nieces and nephews and many friends that I consider family.

It’s been quite the reunion up here. I truly recommend it when it’s your time.

To all my family and friends I hope you know you have been in my thoughts and prayers daily throughout my life - so please be good and if you can’t - be careful or just don’t get caught.

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in gloom-filled room.

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me...a little - but not too long

And not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we once shared,

Miss me - but let me go

For this is a journey that we all must take

And each must go alone.

It’s all a part of the Maker’s plan,

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick at heart,

go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds

Miss me - but let me go.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to Safe Haven Sanctuary at Regina’s Rescue.  Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.