Mary Lee McQueen

Mary Lee McQueen, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of the Flemington community, passed away on Saturday morning, July 5, 2025, at Bridgeway Care & Rehab Center in Bridgewater, New Jersey. She was 91 years old.

Born on November 27, 1933, in Brent, Alabama, she was the daughter of the late Vince Mayhan and Alma Norris. Mary led a life filled with love, dedication, and nurturing care for her family and friends.

For decades, Mary served as a housekeeper in private homes across Flemington and the broader Hunterdon County area, a role that showcased her hardworking spirit and willingness to help others. Mary's greatest joy and deepest pride came from her children and from actively raising and nurturing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she cherished above all else. She was instrumental in shaping their lives, serving as both caregiver and guiding force through their formative years.

She delighted in creating a warm and welcoming environment where her friends and family could gather, always ensuring they felt surrounded by her unconditional love. Known affectionately as "Grandma Queen" or "Tudabay" by close friends and relatives, Mary's nurturing spirit knew no bounds. Mary created precious memories and passed down her wisdom through generations. Her legacy of love and devotion continues to live on in the hearts of the family she so tenderly raised and treasured.

A true family woman, Mary’s proudest accomplishments was providing her family unwavering support as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She dedicated her life to caring for them, being their biggest cheerleader, through life's milestones and challenges. Whether they were celebrating achievements, navigating difficult times, or simply needing a listening ear, Mary was always there with encouragement, wisdom, and her love.

Mary had a green thumb; her home was adorned with plants, she was also known for the large garden her and her husband lovingly attended, and a love for going to yard sales mirrored her spirited personality. Her culinary skills were legendary among her loved ones; she was particularly known for her fried chicken, goulash, and Saturday mornings with the grands making flapjacks, as big as their heads in her cast iron skillet. The joy of cooking brought her closer to her extended family, especially during her eagerly anticipated visits to Alabama, where she reveled in cooking for her loved ones.

Mary grew up in Brent, Alabama, before moving to Hunterdon County, NJ, where she resided for the last 67 years. She is remembered fondly by many who had the privilege of knowing her and experiencing her kindness and warmth.

Mary is survived by her son, James McQueen (Joann) of Flemington, NJ; stepsons Berry McQueen, Jr. (Janice) of Trenton, NJ; John McQueen of AL; beloved sister, Susie Driver of AL, as well as seven grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins who will carry her legacy forward.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Berry McQueen, Sr., three children, Arthur, Robert, and Alice McQueen; in addition to five siblings, Henry, Mitchell, Willie Mae, Lorine and Leroy. Each of these losses molded her compassionate heart and strengthened her resolve to cherish every moment with those she loved.

Mary's life was a testament to love, community, and resilience. She will be profoundly missed but celebrated through the memories and stories held dear by those who loved her. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM also in the funeral home. Mary will then be interred at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Flemington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mary's name may be made to the Flemington Area Food Pantry by clicking the link below.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.