Mary Elizabeth "Dolly" Clapham , 93, of Lakewood, passed away September 22, 2016.
She was born April 12, 1923 in Boulder, Colorado, the daughter of James Guy and Katharine Virginia Archibald .
She was a graduate of Boulder High School. She attended University of Colorado - Boulder where her major was Vocal Music Education and she was a drum majorette.
With the involvement of America in World War II, Mary left CU Boulder and sold War Bonds in St. Louis, MO, where she also sang on the radio. Mary also worked in the Music Library at the Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, TX.
On August 22, 1946 she married Joseph Clapham at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Boulder.
A lifelong Catholic, she was a member of Spirit of Christ Catholic Church. Very involved in the lives of children, she participated in PTA and was a Paraprofessional at Belmar Elementary. Mary volunteered as a host for the "Helping Hand" program, a safe place where children could go if they felt unsafe. Mary also nannied and tutored for several families.
Mary enjoyed music, especially singing. She sang in the church choir while attending Our Lady of Fatima and was a member of the Sweet Adelines singing group. She also enjoyed spending time outdoors hiking, skiing or camping. She enjoyed gardening. Mary loved horses and enjoyed spending time with her equestrian neighbors. She also volunteered with the Westernaires when her daughter, Joanna, was in the group. Mary was always looking to make her time with her family fun, whether it was an impromptu picnic or inviting family and friends over for visits.
Mary is survived by Two Sons, Richard Lee (Debra) Clapham and James Guy (Nancy) Clapham; Daughter, Joanna Marie Clapham; 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren with one great-grandchild on the way.
She is preceded in death by Husband, Joseph C. Clapham.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Rocky Mountain Riding Therapy, P.O. Box 909 Louisville, CO 80027.
To share a memory of Mary or leave a special condolence message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.