Mary Lois Dexter, age 91, of Gilroy, California passed gently into the arms of her Savior on October 21 ^st .

Born in Conway, Arkansas October 3, 1926 to Hermon & Ava Hooks, She relocated to California during the great dustbowl in 1934.  First settling near Salinas, she met the love of her life – Donald Dexter – married him in 1948 – then moved to the family compound in old Gilroy.  She was a charter member of The First Baptist Church of Gilroy.  Besides raising her family of 6 children, Mary volunteered in many neighborly activities, school programs and charitable events.  She was an active member of her church – teaching Sunday school until last year – and also involved in the philanthropic group, P.E.O. International.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don; her parents; her sister, Dorothy Crenshaw; and grandson, Joseph Dexter.  She leaves behind her children and their families; son – Steve and his wife, Deb of Idaho Falls; daughters – Dorothy Dexter of Elko, NV; Deborah & husband Bert Hatton of Honolulu, HI; Donna and husband Joe Kline of Gilroy, CA; Doreen and husband Rick Arucan of Manteca, CA; and Diane Fitch of Chandler, AZ.  Mary dearly loved each one of her 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Also surviving her is her brother, Thomas Hooks of San Jose, CA.

Her Celebration of Life service will be held at the First Baptist Church, 8455 Wren Ave., Gilroy, CA 95020 at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 11 ^th .  Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the First Baptist Church for Mary's favorite charities.