Mary Allison Starks Blair was born on February 26, 1939, in Dallas, Texas to William Allison Starks and Julia Mae Walker Starks. She was raised in a loving and close-knit family that included five siblings. She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings William (Billy), Jr., Birdie, Gretchen (Baby Sister), and Bettie Joe.
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As a fourth-generation descendant on one of the founder’s of New Hope, Emma Starks, Mary was baptized at an early age by Reverend Dr. O.M. Locust. She was recognized by the church as having been a member for over 75 years, where she served in various church ministries, including New Members Committee; Showers of Blessings Outreach Ministry at the MLK Center; Seasoned Saints Ministry (Chairperson); and the Solace Committee (Chairperson).
Mary attended Booker T. Washington High School until the family moved to South Dallas. While attending “The Great” James Madison High School, Mary was a star twirler as a member of the Whirl Wind Club. She graduated in 1957.
She married Johnny A. Blair and to this union, one child was born, Dawn Maria, who was the LOVE of HER LIFE.
Mary’s professional career began at Texas Instruments (TI), however, after Dawn started school, she joined the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) to align their schedules. She retired from the DISD after serving more than 30 years.
Mary was a long-time, faithful member of the Washington-Lincoln Alumni Association of Dallas, Inc. (WLAA). For many years, she served as the Registrar for their National Conventions.
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