Mary Lacy Chase

Mary Lacy Chase, 67, of Waco, passed away from cancer January 17, 2018, at home surrounded by family and close loved ones. Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, January 22, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey, and a celebration of Mary Lacy’s life will be held at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel, 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 23. Mary Lacy was born December 24, 1950, to Patricia Reiley Clifton and William Lacy Clifton of Waco. She attended Waco schools and St. Stephens’ Preparatory School in Austin. At Baylor University, she received a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Education and Counseling. Mary Lacy taught third grade at Viking Hills Elementary prior to marriage. She married the love of her life, Jim Chase, in October, 1983. They had one son, Jamey, for whom she had the honor and privilege of officiating his wedding ceremony to the beautiful Katie. Mary’s motivation in life was helping others. For more than 30 years she volunteered weekly at the Bill Logue Juvenile Justice Center’s boot camp program for juvenile offenders. During that time she developed a unique Yoga and counseling program for the young men incarcerated there. She taught yoga poses, breathing techniques, life skills, and how to still the mind. She was particularly excited when they learned headstands, which many did. She was always thrilled when graduates approached her to say they were doing well, and she grieved for the ones who didn’t make it. Prior to her illness, Mary Lacy had begun plans for a halfway house for the graduates of the Juvenile Center. Her hope was to create a self- sustaining place where the young men could transition to a life of freedom. Her family is tasked with continuing the project to honor her legacy. Mary Lacy is survived by her husband, Jim; and son, Jamey and wife, Katie, of Vail, Colorado; and many furry kids. She will be remembered as a woman who adored her family, loved serving the community, and had a passion for yoga. Special thanks go to Dr. James Hodges, Mary’s niece, Gracie Chase, nurse, Cindy Murphey, and Chaplain Sarah Miller, all who provided loving and kind care during her illness. Also, special friends and caregivers, Cristal and Diego Marroquin, Natalia Alvarado, and Flavio Martinez. In honor of Mary’s life, a fund has been established at Waco Foundation (1227 N Valley Mills Dr #235, Waco TX 76710) to further the halfway house project. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to this special project. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.