Adelle Alley

Mary Adelle Alley’s remarkable life was defined by resilience, love, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. Born on February 21, 1927, to Charles “Charlie” and Bessie Bagby Splawn in Slaton, Texas, she came into the world at a time of great challenges. Growing up during the Great Depression, Adelle’s early years were marked by hardship and perseverance.

Growing up in Slaton, Texas, she experienced firsthand the relentless storms of the Dust Bowl. She would often recall stories of how they would drape damp towels over windows and doors to combat the encroaching dust that threatened to seep into their modest home. Despite these trying conditions, Mary Adelle’s spirit remained unyielding. When she was twelve years old, her family moved to Abilene, Texas. It was still during the Great Depression so times were tough. Sharing a bedroom with her two siblings, she learned the value of cooperation and the deep bonds that come from facing adversity together.

Adelle excelled academically, graduating from Abilene High School among the top ten percent of her class. With a drive for knowledge and a passion for learning, she pursued higher education at Abilene Christian College. Her college years were transformative, laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to community and personal growth.

On May 5, 1946, shortly after the conclusion of World War II, she married Theodore “Ted” Alley, a proud veteran returning from service.  Adelle embraced her roles as wife and mother with boundless energy, dedicating herself to nurturing her family while also contributing to the workforce. She began her career as a postal clerk at the U.S. Post Office and later transitioned to Texas Commerce Bank, where she worked until her retirement in 1992. In addition, she held various part-time positions at Furr’s Family Center and Service Merchandise, embodying the ethic of hard work that defined her generation.

Beyond her professional life, Mary Adelle’s hands were always busy with crafts and projects. She was known for her skillful sewing, often creating garments for her granddaughters using patterns she cut from paper sacks. Her creative talents extended to crafting as well, including the beloved cotton boll Santa Clauses that became a cherished item at the Ranching Heritage Museum. Her dedication to family history culminated in the compilation of a comprehensive genealogical book, ensuring the legacy of the Splawn family for future generations.

Adelle’s service to her community was exemplary. She was an active volunteer with the South Plains Association of Governments (SPAG) and dedicated countless hours at the Barton House at the Ranching Heritage Center, particularly delighting in the holiday season activities. Her passion for preserving and celebrating Western culture earned her recognition, including the prestigious Volunteer Award from the National Cowboy Symposium in 2011.

A woman of strong faith, Adelle was a devoted member of the Monterey Church of Christ, where she found both spiritual fulfillment and lasting friendships. Her social circle expanded through her involvement in organizations like the Red Hat Society and the Lubbock County Extension Club, where her lively spirit and warmth were treasured. Even at the age of 97, she embraced technology and kept up with her family and friends on social media.

Mary Adelle Alley is survived by her beloved family, including her daughter, Sharon (Ron) Mouser of Ransom Canyon, and her son, Jay (Annette) Alley of Arlington. She was the proud grandmother to Gregory (Amy) Mouser, Kelly (Adrian) Holland, Travis (Corinne) Alley, Trenton Alley, Dr. Wendy (Keith) Brown, and Dr. Katie (Javier) Peterson Hernandez. Her legacy lives on in her eleven great-grandchildren, Hayden (Clacie)Mouser, Emily Mouser, Jackson Mouser, Haley Holland, Nolan Holland, Peyton Brown, Hayes Brown, Olivia Hernandez, Penelope Hernandez, Margot Hernandez, and Brooks Alley whose lives she enriched with love and wisdom.

She is preceded in death by her children’s father, Ted Alley, and her parents, Charlie and Bessie Splawn, her daughter, Kathy Hillman, great-grandchild, Owen Brown; her siblings, Nelda Tarter, and Jimmy Splawn. Mary Adelle’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and the power of community, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

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