10/15/2025
Mary Russell Haley, aged 84, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025. Born in Lexington, Kentucky in 1941, Mary lived a life defined by compassion, intellect, and quiet strength.
She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas Christian University, where she cultivated a deep love for education and literacy. As a Professional Reading Specialist, Mary taught both high school and college students, inspiring generations with her belief in the transformative power of learning. Her students often described her classes as a mix of strong instruction liberally sprinkled with a dose of humor—a reflection of her ability to make learning both rigorous and joyful.
Beyond the classroom, Mary served as Executive Vice President of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, where she championed local businesses and community development with vision and grace.
Her commitment to service extended across many organizations, including the Women’s Symphony League, TCU Alumni Associations, the Senate Ladies Club, the Legislative Ladies Club, the National Council of Teachers of English, the Texas Community College Teachers Association, and the Addison & Randolph Clark Society for TCU. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Mary was honored with the TCU Alumni Service Award in 2017.
Faith was a guiding force in Mary’s life. She was an active member of University Christian Church in Austin, where she served in various roles and found deep joy and fellowship as part of the Seekers church school class.
Of all her accomplishments, Mary’s most treasured roles were those of wife, mother, and grandmother—affectionately known as “Gigi.”
She is survived by:
Son, Jeffrey Russell Haley and his wife Michele Elaine (Genova)
Grandsons:
William Russell Haley of Austin
Jonathan Michael Haley of Austin
Son, Robert Colin Haley and his wife Lisa Marie (Norwood)
Grandchildren:
Andrew Christopher Haley of Bertram, Texas
Ava Brooke Haley of Bertram, Texas
Alexis Giuliana Haley of Bertram, Texas
Sister, Elizabeth Shogren of Harrisburg, Illinois
Many beloved nieces and nephews
Mary was preceded in death by her devoted husband Bill, her parents, and her brother.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 22, from 6–8pm at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home, located at 411 Ranch Rd 620 South in Lakeway. Services will take place Thursday, October 23, at 10am at University Christian Church, 2007 University Avenue, Austin, Texas. Burial will follow at the Texas State Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Haley Family Fund for Medicine and the Arts at TCU, the Mary Scriven and James W. Haley Endowed Theatre Scholarship at TCU, or the University Christian Church Organ Fund.
