November 25, 1934 -- May 3, 2020

Mary Lou Laden, a longtime Dallas, Texas, resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2020 at the age of 85.

Mary Lou was born on November 25, 1934 in Argyle, Texas, to Otha Burl and Nellie Louise Mullens. She attended Argyle Grade School followed by Denton High School and subsequently graduated from University of North Texas in 1955, putting herself through school in 3 years.

After graduating college, Mary Lou began working as the Secretary for the Chief Engineer of Semiconductors at Texas Instruments where she met and later married her husband and love of her life for 63 years, Samuel C. Laden, Jr.

The couple had a brief courtship and married in 1957 in the Cole Chapel at the First United Methodist Church in Denton, Texas, prior to Sam's call to active duty at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After returning from active duty, the couple settled in Dallas and had one son, Gary Mark Laden in 1958. There, she settled into her life as wife and mother with active involvement in cultural and charity organizations.

Mary Lou served in leadership roles for: Oak Cliff Junior Society of Fine Arts, Southwood United Methodist Church Cookbook Editor, Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce Executive 100, Oak Cliff Beautification Committee, Dallas Library Board, Dallas County Mother's March of Dimes Chairwoman, Dallas County Aggie Mother's Club President, Dallas A&M University Mother's Club Hullabaloo In the Kitchen Editor, and Dallas Federation of Women's Clubs.

Mary Lou, known as "Grandmom" by her five grandchildren, is remembered for the many ways she shared her talents and time. She was an avid cook often making treats and goodies for them. More importantly, she was their biggest fan attending and supporting countless sporting events, Boy Scout ceremonies, theatrical productions, dance recitals, choir concerts, and academic honors.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her parents Otha Burl and Nellie Louise Mullens. She is survived by her beloved husband, Samuel C. Laden, Jr.; son Gary Laden and wife, Patricia E. Laden, MD; and grandchildren, Collin and wife Margaret, Keaton, Brent, Abby, and Brooke Laden, as well as several cousins and other family members. Memories and some of Grandmom's favorite recipes will be shared with future great grandchildren.

Thanks to the staff and support of the Forum at The Woodlands and Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital for their compassionate care.