Mary Esther Schaum died Tuesday afternoon, at 92 years of age. Born June 15, 1931, to Reverend George and Esther Schaum, Mary was the youngest of 3 children.
Mary spent her working career as a Network Service Supervisor of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 37 years. She was outstanding in her work, earning citations for excellence. After Southwestern Bell, Mary began work at Avis through the Tulsa Airport. She again excelled, earning certificates for her dedication and safe driving.
Along with her strong work ethic, Mary believed in helping others. This is evident in the myriad volunteer programs in which she participated. She served as a judge and precinct official at Precinct 081 for the Tulsa County Election Board. She was a faithful supporter of the Pioneers, a national volunteer network. In addition, Mary worked over 10 years as an RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) Airport Ambassador at the Tulsa International Airport. She also volunteered as office manager at the Tulsa State Fair for 13 years. When she wasn't in the fair office, Mary used her time to bake treats for the other volunteers and deliver coffee to the parking attendants.
Those who worked with her touted her strong work ethic and passion. Ms. Schaum was so exemplary in her work; she was awarded a citation by the Oklahoma House of Representatives for being the among the most distinguished and outstanding volunteers in the State of Oklahoma.
Mary was two-time cancer survivor. True to her nature, she went on to volunteer with the Susan G. Komen breast cancer foundation for the next 20 years, attending 5k races and raising awareness.
Mary enjoyed travelling with her lifelong companion, Gerry Tigert. She had a beautiful alto voice and loved to sing southern gospel. She was a loyal Tulsa resident her entire life. Proud of her Native-American heritage, she passed on that pride to her family. She is survived by her niece, Cindi Schaum of Washington State, her late nephew's wife, Betty Logan, of Oklahoma; her great-nephews, Robert Flippo and family, of Texas, Corey Burrell and family, of Virginia, and Geoff Logan and family, missionaries in Hungary; as well as her great-niece, Dara Rooms and family, of Virginia. She left behind a multitude of friends and neighbors who loved her.
She loved pugs, chocolate, football, and Jesus. Mary was a devout Christian, who spent her time and energy loving others. She will be missed.