Mary Crabtree, 79, of Commerce, Texas, died Monday, Aug. 25, 1997, in Irving, Texas.

She was born Oct. 11, 1917, in Cincinnati, the daughter of Oliver Percy Mann and Lillie Newton Martin. On Dec. 23, 1917, she married Cape Girardeau native William "Bill" Crabtree in Paris, Ky. He died Jan. 18, 1996.

She graduated from Transylvania College in Lexington, Ky., with a bachelor's degree and George Peabody University in Nashville with a master's degree.

She taught physical education and typing at Commerce (Texas) High School, coached tennis and volleyball and sponsored the cheerleaders before retiring in 1978.

She belonged to the Daughters of the American Revolution, the University Dames, Delta Kappa Gamma and Chi Omega.

She belonged to First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a son, William L. "Bill" Crabtree Jr. of Grand Prairie, Texas; a sister, Elsie Joyce Mann of Raleigh, N.C.; a granddaughter and a great-granddaughter.

Friends may call from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Pemberton Funeral Home in Commerce, Texas.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home with Dr. Joe Twellman officiating. Private burial will be in Rosemound Cemetery in Commerce, Texas.