Mary Magaline Mcalister

Mary M. Hooper McAlister, born September 4, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2025. A loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, she made a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Mary was the daughter of Frank and Anna Brown Hooper, raised in Greenville alongside her two sisters, Anna McAlister (Georgia) and the late Mildred, and two brothers, James Hooper (Greenville) and the late Eugene Hooper.

In 1960, Mary married Robert Eugene McAlister on Christmas Day. Together, they built a life filled with love, though Robert predeceased her. Known for her strong-willed and unforgettable personality, Mary could be tough, but her presence was always impactful and cherished by her family and friends.

Mary loved thrift store shopping and enjoyed fishing and boating in her younger years.

She was the proud mother of five children, Anna Leonard (Woodrow), Brittany McAlister, Robert Eugene McAlister Jr. (Pete, Judy), Frank McAlister (Marion); and two sons who preceded her in death, Paul McAlister (Amanda) and Coaley McAlister. Mary and Robert also lovingly raised their granddaughter Jennifer from the age of three. She is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including: Josh Leonard (Allene) and their children Cameron and Caitlyn, Rene Black (Jered) and their children Ileigh, Rileigh, Jessie, and JC, Billy Welch (fiance Amy Brumley) and their children, Ava and Mason, Crystal McAlister Clark (Andy) and their children Jacob Sturdivant and Darian Washington, Jennifer McAlister Ramsey (Allen) and their children Gage, Arissah, Arayah, and Gracie, and Gracie's son Gabriel and husband Caleb, Melissa Danielle McAlister Anderko and her children Chloe and Aiden (in heaven), Monica Lineberger Harrill (Jonathan) and their children Cree, Elijah, and Charlotte, Wesley McAlister and daughter, Avery, Cora McAlister and her children Scarlett and Evelyn, Mary McAlister (in heaven) and daughter Charisma McAlister (Logan), and Daniel, Nolen, Courtney, and Whitney McAlister.

A proud matriarch, Mary will be remembered for her fierce spirit, unapologetic nature, and the deep influence she had on the generations that followed her. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held 11:00 am, Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Greene Funeral Services South Chapel - 1503 S York Road, Gastonia, NC 28052. Family and friends will gather to honor her memory one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Rest in peace, Mary. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of your family, and your spirit will never be forgotten.

Condolences may be shared online at: www.greenefuneral.com.