On January 30, 1942, Mary Claire Thompson Ingram was born near McClennen, Texas to Mattie and George Thompson. The fourth of seven siblings who unexpectedly lost their father before they were grown.
Through this tragedy, Mary, her siblings and their mother, Mattie formed an incredibly strong bond that kept this little family close through the generations to come.
Being so proud of how her mother, Mattie, began a nursing career after losing her husband and provided for her children alone in an era where this was unheard of, Mary also became an LVN and a devoted, loving mother and grandmother.
Married to James R. Ingram, a/k/a “Outlaw,” for more than 50 years, she was adept at traveling and loved a good adventure.
Though shy and reserved until she got to know you, she’d win your heart quickly with her excitement over her diverse hobbies of casino gambling and viewing Texas blue bonnets in every corner of the state.
She was a talented painter and once had her Texas Blue Bonnet paintings shown at the Cowgirl Hall of Fame.
Mary was a multi-dimensional person, quiet and humble, adventurous and stern when warranted, forgiving and loving and most of all, generous with an abundance of unconditional love she freely gave to those of us lucky enough to have known her. She lived her entire life by this rule: “If you can’t say something nice, be quiet.” She never disparaged and was always encouraging.
Mary is survived by her children, Ishandra Reese and spouse, Randal, of Orange, Texas and James R. Ingram, II and spouse, Alison, of Mont Belvieu, Texas; grandchildren Jacob Ison, Alex Ingram, Rivers Reese, Skylar Reese and Ivy Reese; and her siblings: Carla Conover of Waco, Jan Thompson of Victoria, and Mike Thompson of Odessa.
Mary was predeceased by her husband, James R. Ingram; her children: Clifton Todd Elliston and Carla Stanley; her siblings: Georgia Sparks, Don Thompson and Joan Thompson.
In the early morning of October 19, 2026, Mary went peacefully to the next life where she had so many waiting for her. We are so very thankful the Good Lord sent us this remarkable woman to show us how to keep going through it all and to live and love with your whole heart.
Until we meet again, Godspeed.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Visitation will begin prior to the service at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Visitation will begin prior to the service at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
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