Mary Ann Polhemus

Mary Ann Polhemus, loving wife, mother, Mimi, and educator, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, August 8, 2020 with her husband John and daughter Sara Jane by her side. Born on May 3, 1947 in Adrian, MI to Charles Robert Bartholomew and Melva Jane (Drury) Bartholomew, Mary Ann was an only child. She graduated from Broadmoor High School in Baton Rouge, LA in 1965, and went on to graduate with a degree in Education from Louisiana State University in 1969. Geaux Tigers! Shortly after graduating college, Mary Ann moved to Houston, TX where she began her career as an educator. While working at her first teaching position as a 5th grade teacher, Mary Ann was introduced to John Polhemus on a blind date. They were married two years later on March 25, 1972. Mary Ann was a lifelong educator, leader, and learner, receiving her Master's Degree in Education from the University of Houston in 1972- Go Coogs! Her career as a teacher, a reading specialist, and ultimately a principal, displayed her love for all aspects of education. Mary Ann served the Ashford Community in west Houston as the principal of Ashford Elementary School for 22 years before retiring in 2012. As principal, Mary Ann became an integral part of the community, even serving as the Grand Marshal of the annual neighborhood Fourth of July parade, and giving her time freely on holidays and weekends to support Boy Scout, Girl Scout, and other civic functions. Her leadership, kindness, and dedication were valued by all, and were true hallmarks of her career and life. Mary Ann had many interests, including quilting/sewing, shopping and antiquing, having lunch and playing bunko with dear friends, reading books, hosting elegant family dinners, rooting for her favorite baseball and football teams, and attending Broadway and ballet performances. Her greatest and most meaningful pleasure however, was being an ardent cheerleader for her family and friends, and being the best Mimi ever. Mary Ann is survived by her husband John, daughter Sara Jane Holmes, son-in-law Timothy Holmes Jr, and two perfect granddaughters, Genevieve and Penelope. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brookwood Community in Brookshire, TX, a community dear to Mary Ann's heart. Per Mary Ann's request, a celebration of life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Pearland, TX as soon as we are able to gather safely, without restrictions.

Mary Ann Polhemus

May 3, 1947 - August 8, 2020