Mary Deskins

Mary Frances Deskins, 80, of Waco, left her earthly body to join her Heavenly family Friday, October 25, 2013. Services will be Tuesday, October 29, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at OakCrest Funeral Home with Jack Bodenhamer officiating. Visitation will be Monday, October 28, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd.

She was born in Waco on October 30, 1932 to Rachel Salyers Deskins and William Deskins. She was the youngest of 17 children. Mary attended Waco High, Class of 1950, and continued her education at Baylor University. Upon graduation she took on many management positions within Western Union, retiring and then continuing to work at WSFCU for 20 plus years, where she retired again. Throughout her life, she was an advocate for women’s rights, working alongside Ann Richards and many other leaders to provide equality for women within our State and country.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Petra Elizabeth; and her son, William Leard.

She is survived by her daughter, Christina Covert; grandchildren, Kristyn Leard, Jennifer Leard, Kirsty Leard and Dallas Andrews; and numerous nieces and nephews.


We would like to thank the staff at Greenview Manor, and Providence Hospice for their excellent care of Mary Frances.