Mary Turner Gratz's Obituary
Mary Turner Gratz, 86, a life-long resident of Dallas, died peacefully at home on June 29, 2020. She was born March 21, 1934 to John Duncan Turner and Evelyn Corrine Hogg. She married Melvin Gratz on June 18, 1954. She was a great wife, mother, godmother and friend to all.
She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1951. Her mother had no money for college so she took night classes at SMU, Richland and Brookhaven and read voraciously to overcome the lack of a more formal education. She was a member of First United Methodist Church of Dallas her entire life and served over 40 years in the Dental Alliance.
She is survived by her loving husband of 66 years Dr. Melvin “Doc” Gratz, two daughters, Maggie Riba (George) and Nanette Talbert (Marc), a bonus daughter Susan Morgan, all of Dallas, godchildren Kristin Erwin of Dallas, Clay Erwin (Ellen) of Shreveport, LA and Lindsey Clement (Bradley) of New Orleans, LA, and six great-godchildren; Trigg, Stratton, Julie, Henry, Claire and Pete. The godchildren said Mary was one of their favorite persons in the world, Doc said she was his favorite person for 69 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Janet Evelyn Turner.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Mary’s name to the Rise Fund at First United Methodist Church (www.firstchurchdallas.org/rise) or to the charity of your choice, with our sincere gratitude. For everyone’s safety no services will be scheduled.
The family would like to thank Jessica Perez for helping Doc take such great care of Mary.
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