Fashion designer, artist, and mentor, Marigail McCreary Mathis, of Florence, Alabama, ended a courageous battle with cancer on April 20, 2010. Known in the Shoals area, in fashion circles, and to her friends simply as "Marigail," her presence will continue to be felt in the many lives she touched.
Marigail was born to Bill and Mary Neal McCreary. After two years at Converse College in South Carolina, she went to the University of Alabama, where she graduated with a degree in textiles.
Marigail is survived by her husband of 28 years, Tommy Mathis; their marriage and creative partnership helped both to achieve new levels of creativity in design, and their love of travel introduced them to artists and friends around the world. She is also survived by her brother, Marc McCreary, his wife Donna, nieces and nephews, and multitudes of friends.
Visitation will be on Friday April 23, 2010 at 10 am in the garden of First United Methodist Church of Florence. A celebration of her life will follow at 11 am in the sanctuary.
It is Marigail''s energy that will be missed the most. Her upbeat and positive attitude and creative approach to any problem, even her illness, was inspirational, and she lived her life by her creed, "this is going to be fun!" Those who knew her best knew that she faced even the end of her life this way, and have no doubt that she is approaching what lies beyond with the same positive spirit.
Memorials may be made to the Choir Fund at First United Methodist Church of Florence, the Book Fund at the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, or a cancer research charity of your choice.
You are invited to sign the online register at www.elkinsfh.com.
Elkins Funeral Home is assisting the family.