Mary was a beloved and long-time member of the Alliance for Appalachia and Kentuckians for the Commonwealth. We will greatly miss her spirit, strength, and leadership over the years. Mary grew up in East Tennessee and was devoted to protecting the land, water, and people of Central Appalachia. Our hearts go out to her friends, family, and all those she touched while on this earth.
Mary was an active member of Kentuckians for the Commonwealth’s Land Reform Committee, New Energy and Transition Committee, and Air Quality Team. At KFTC she held many leadership roles including the Leadership Development Committee, Steering Committee, and Executive Committee. She was also a coordinating member of the national network that focuses on Extreme Energy Extraction.
Mary served several years with the Alliance’s Coordinating Committee and was an integral part of Alliance Steering meetings where she not only offered her knowledge but also a little humor and spunk. Mary wasn’t afraid to say what she thought or speak up for those who couldn’t, and if you mispronounced Appalachia she would be the first to let you know.
Mary has been a spokesperson and grassroots lobbyist in campaigns for clean energy, against mountaintop removal mining, and so much more. We have so many fond memories of Mary from her leadership to her jigsaw puzzles and her talkative black cat that joined our calls.
If you have a favorite story about Mary please share it with us.
With gratitude,
The Alliance for Appalachia
