Mary Bly

Mary Bly, 75, beloved Sister, Mother, and Wife, was called to her eternal resting place on December 20, 2016. She was born on March 17, 1941 in Artesia, NM, to Russell and Thelma (McCaw) Rogers. She is survived by her husband James Bly, of the home and daughter Jennie Miller of Temple, TX. Also, sister Barbara (Richard) Henderson of Los Alamos, NM and brother Stanley Rogers of Roswell, NM. She is also survived by numerous cousins (Rogers & McCaw) and two nephews: Roger Henderson & Reese Rogers; two nieces: Mary Kay Henderson & Karen Melton.

Mary and James Bly were married on January 23, 1981 in Carlsbad, NM. She was an active member and Deacon of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Mary attend Atoka School through the eighth grade, then continued in the Artesia Public Schools graduating in 1959. She then attended Park College in Kansas City, Missouri later transferring to New Mexico State University. She also attended dress design school in Chicago, Illinois.

During her school years, Mary was very active in Eddy County 4-H, attending the 36th National 4-H Congress in 1957. She was recognized and earned an award for her bread baking demonstration. Mary was also active in Junior Women's Club and was part of the group that coordinated the original Heritage Walkway Mural for the Bicentennial.

Mary was the founder of Artesia Clean & Beautiful in 1993. She was very active in the AHS Band Boosters and served as president of the AHS Choir Boosters 1984-85. To help raise funds for both groups Mary made hard-candy lollipops for many years. She was instrumental in coordinating the design and sewing of new choir dresses in 1984.

Mary accompanied James when he was called to work out of town and spend many hours studying the history and folklore of the many towns that they visited in New Mexico. If there was a haunted room available, Mary was eager to spend the night in the establishment. She loved traveling to Hawaii, New Orleans, Washington, DC and Pennsylvania. She enjoyed visiting antique stores, museums and was an avid reader and collector.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 30, 2016, 11:00 am. at First Christian Church, 1006 W. Bullock Ave., Artesia, NM 88210. Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church or the American Diabetes Association.

Arrangements have been entrusted Terpening & Son Mortuary. Please remember Mrs. Bly at www.artesiafunerals.com.

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