Mary Dell Garrison, 83, of Orange, passed away Saturday, December 23, 2023 at her residence. Mary was born March 19, 1940 in Seminole, to K.V and Anna Verfurth Odom. The daughter of an oilfield worker, she grew up all over Texas worshipping the ground her daddy walked on. Quick-witted and full of mischief, she was always up for adventure and always greeted you with a smile. She married into the Navy and began her career as a seaman's wife, which was any and all things to a family of five children. Forever the homemaker, you could always find her in the kitchen a tremendous cook. She loved to cook and cooked with love.

She earned her nursing degree in 1978 and along with her love of babies, became an accomplished labor and delivery nurse. Widowed for the 1st time in 1979, she returned to her home state of Texas where she met and married the love of her life, gaining two bonus children. Placed on a pedestal and spoiled rotten, she was able to leave nursing behind to pursue a life of Riley. Spending her days perfecting her many talents and passions like gardening/landscaping, crafting/woodworking, painting, or sewing/quilting. Affectionately known as 'Tater,' she was a fixture at the area nursing homes where she and her husband Butch sang and performed comedic skits, bringing much joy and laughter to everyone.

She was a member of Fairdale Baptist Church and the Hemphill Garden Club.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia Chandler; children, Melissa Embrey, Belinda Iles, Carol Barclay, Keith Barclay, Sharon Martin and Charles Garrison; grandchildren, Beau Embrey, Tara Fortenberry, Billy Barclay, Brant Barclay, Allisa Barclay, Genisis Barclay, Cameron Barclay, Aaron Iles, Quention Iles, Caleb Iles, Taylor Barclay, Justin Barclay, Amber Martin and Perry Martin, great grand children, Ava Fortenberry, Jace Fortenberry, Rowen Embrey, Braden Trull, Lexiee Barclay, Mackenzie Brinkley, Brooklyn Morris, Reniedi Martin and Thadeus Barclay, great great grandchild, Colston Jude; and many nieces, nephews and extended family who were 'Tater's' biggest fans.

She was preceded in death by her parents, K.V. and Anna Odom; brothers, Bernard Odom and James Odom; husbands, Billy Bruce Barclay and Charles Garrison; son, Terry Bruce Barclay; granddaughter, Erica Jazz Hymel; and great grandson, Lane Barclay.

Funeral services were held December 30, 2023 in Fairdale Baptist Church, under the direction of Starr Funeral Home with Bro. Bo Owens officiating.

Burial followed services in Mt. Sinai Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome. com.