Mary C. Beckner

Mary Christine Cassel Beckner, age 86, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, in Hamilton, Texas. Born in Hobbs, New Mexico in 1939, and raised in Albuquerque, Mary's life was a beautiful tapestry of experiences, devotion, and deep-rooted love for her family and community. Mary's early adult years took her across Texas and New Mexico as she raised her young family, and eventually settled in El Paso. Years later, fate introduced her to the love of her life, Glen Beckner, and together, they began a life filled with laughter, adventure, and countless stories that their family will treasure forever. In 1987, Mary and Glen retired to Hamilton, which became her heart's home - a place where friendships felt like family, as they embraced the simple joys of small-town living. Her neighbors, Jimmy and Judy, quickly became cherished fixtures in her life. Mary had a spirit that couldn't be contained. She delighted in traveling the world and quickly became a “professional cruiser”! She had an undeniable competitive streak playing cards, and she especially loved playing with her family, as well as playing in Keno groups around Hamilton. Yet, despite all of her journeys with traveling, some of her happiest moments were right in Hamilton: savoring a good Storm's burger, and visiting with her beloved neighbors. Mary enjoyed being very active in her community. She devoted countless hours to volunteering in multiple programs throughout Hamilton. She was guided by a faith that was not only deeply held but actively lived. A devout Catholic, Mary lived her faith quietly but steadfastly. In 2004, she was honored in Austin with the prestigious Catholic Lumen Gentium Award (Light of the World). This beautiful award recognized her service and devotion to her faith, an achievement she carried with humble pride. She continued to serve her cherished church of St. Thomas until nearly the last year of her life. And when she was unable to attend mass any longer, she was visited by her dear friend Jeannie, and so many other parishioners, who brought her the sacrament of holy communion, plates of homemade enchiladas (her favorite!), and spent time with her in prayer and fellowship. She treasured these relationships and the wonderful people of her church. Despite her active lifestyle, Mary found wonder in simple delights too: hummingbirds at her kitchen window, a good plate of Mexican food, or a Blizzard from Dairy Queen, which was enough to make any day feel special. She was most at peace in Hamilton - visiting with loved ones, tending to the small joys that made up a big life, and embracing each day with gratitude and humor. Mary leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of love! She is survived by her seven children, fourteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, each carrying forward her warmth, her strength, and her unforgettable spirit. She is also survived by three of her siblings and countless nieces and nephews, who shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and devotion with her. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is joyfully reunited with Glen, and all of her loved ones who have preceded her in passing. They imagine her now exactly as she loved each day: sitting on her back porch, watching the birds, and waving hello to dear friends. Please join Mary’s family celebrate her life with a Mass of Resurrection on Friday, December 5, 2025 at St. Thomas Catholic Church 843 N Nicholson Dr. Hamilton, TX 76531 10:00 AM

Mary C. Beckner

March 31, 1939 - November 17, 2025