Mary Kinsaul McGathy, 98, of Freeport, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, in her home on Choctawhatchee Bay. Known to all as “Momma Mary,” “Little Momma,” “Miss Mary,” and “Mema” she lived a life marked by faith, service, and devotion to those she loved.
Born on October 8, 1926, in Florala, Alabama, Mary was a proud graduate of the University of Alabama School of Nursing in Birmingham where she met her husband Pinkney Parrish McGathy. They moved to Tuscaloosa where their son William “Bill” was born. After completing his law degree, the family returned to Florala. Children Charles and Elizabeth were born in Opp, Alabama while the family resided in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Pinkney served as a contract attorney for Air Force, NASA, and the Navy. They retired to Freeport, Florida in1977. In 1988 Pinkney died and Mary never remarried.
A woman of deep faith, she loved her church family, touching many lives with her warmth, humor, and wisdom. She welcomed all and was known for her grace and acceptance.
She was preceded in death by her father William Walter Kinsaul and mother Myrtie Bowers Kinsaul; brothers William, Wallace, James, John, and sister “Tuttie;”daughters-in-law Susan, Rosanne, and Dawn; son-in-law Leonard; and grandson David.
She is survived by her children William (Jennifer), Charles (Toni), and Elizabeth (Steve), and grandchildren: Erin, Michael, William, and Emma. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Of special mention is her niece Debbie who cared for her and was with her to the very end. Also, her friends Donny and nurse “KK” who gave her love and care in her final years. Her legacy lives in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
The funeral service will be at the Freeport Presbyterian Church at 11:00 on the morning of June 7th, 2025; 34 FL-20 Freeport, FL, 32439. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in her memory to Freeport Presbyterian Church.
