In loving memory of Mary Margaret Fisher, who graced this world December 24, 1936, and left it—fashionably late, as always—on December 26, 2024, at the ripe age of 88.
Born in Coldwater, MI, Mary decided to make her grand exit from Wilmington, NC, leaving behind fond memories and a trail of laughter.
Mary had a zest for life that was both infectious and inspiring. Her journey began as a teacher at the Branch Area Career Center, where she ignited a passion for food services among her students. Mary knew her way around a kitchen like nobody’s business, and she delighted in cooking for others, especially when it meant whipping up new recipes in large portions for a crowd.
A proud member of the Coldwater Lake Association, Mary served on the Board of Directors, where she orchestrated the legendary Pancake Breakfast fundraiser every 4th of July weekend. She was also a cherished graduate of Coldwater High School, Class of 1955, and poured her heart into organizing alumni reunions.
Mary was an active participant in the Coldwater United Methodist Church, running the kitchen with military precision and grace. For over two decades, her Pampered Chef parties were the stuff of legend, offering both culinary delights and spirited conversations. She was also an enthusiastic Duke Blue Devil basketball fan and loved nothing more than card games with friends, particularly Hand and Foot and Euchre.
Her social calendar would make the socialites envious, as she filled her days with people, pecan sales for Sorority Beta Sigma Phi Special Sisters, and civic duties as an Election Judge for Ovid Township and a Census Taker. She was also one of the most generous people we ever knew.
Preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Kenneth Olmsted and Margaret (Milnes) Olmsted, Mary is survived by her daughters Catherine Cranson Jones (Michael) and Caroline Cranson Johnson, grandchildren Megan Jones and Justin Jones, great-grandson Michael Jack, sisters Louise Fry and Gretchen Tompkins, brother Thomas Olmsted, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.
Mary’s home at “Little Comfort” on Sans Souci Beach, Coldwater Lake was her slice of paradise, where she boasted having the best sunsets in the world. She was adored by a wide circle of friends and neighbors who will miss her infectious spirit.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held in 2025 back in Michigan, because Mary never missed an opportunity for one last gathering. As we say goodbye to a truly remarkable woman, we cherish the memories of her boundless energy, her love for family and friends, and her unwavering ability to bring people together over good food and hearty laughs.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Services – Village Road Chapel, 525 Village Road, Leland, NC 28451. Please leave condolence messages for Mary’s family on her Tribute Wall at www.wilmingtoncares.com
In lieu of flowers, Mary’s family asks that you consider donations to any of the following organizations which were very dear to Mary: Coldwater Friends of Branch District Library by clicking HERE; Coldwater Lake Association by clicking HERE; or the Coldwater United Methodist Church by clicking HERE.
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