Mary Boatman

Mary Lauretta Fincher Boatman, age 94, of Quitman, Texas, peacefully passed away on October 26, 2025. Born on March 18, 1931, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Mary lived a life characterized by love, service, and a vibrant spirit that touched all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Weleetka High School in 1947, Mary furthered her education at San Juan College, where she earned a degree in business. Her career included serving with distinction as a principal at a private Christian school and dedicating 20 years to healthcare administration at Good Sam. Her professional journey was a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to education and community service.

Mary was a longtime resident of Astec, New Mexico, where she made lasting memories before moving to Quitman in 2021. Throughout her life, she was deeply involved in her church and charity work, passionately teaching Sunday school and Bible school, and serving as church secretary. Mary's love for music was palpable; she was a cherished member of a Christian trio group and also participated in a dance troupe that entertained audiences, including tours to Las Vegas and Disneyland. A talented gardener and yard worker, she found joy in nurturing nature and sharing the fruits of her labor with others.

Mary was a devoted mother to her daughter, Lauretta Arnold and her husband, Bill, and was lightened by the joy of her grandson, Sean Michael Arnold and his wife Brandi . The loss of her beloved son, Jimmie, was a sorrow she carried, contrasting with the happiness that Sean's birth brought into her life, representing the circle of love and family that defined her.

She was a proud great-grandmother to Kassidi, Auston, Dalton, Angelyn, Haeley, Harlie, and Hanna, and great -great-grandmother to Michael.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Boatman; son, Jimmie Ray Fincher; brother, Joe and sisters, June, Ruth, Norma, and Neva

Mary's funeral service will be held on October 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Beaty Funeral Home Chapel in Mineola, Texas. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

As we gather to look back on Mary's remarkable life, let us remember her laughter, her kindness, and her unwavering faith. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. May her soul rest in peace, embraced by the melodies she cherished and the memories she created.