Mary Ruth Stevens Loyd

 Mary Ruth Stevens Loyd's best known as "Meacham Mary" born Alaska Native in Anchorage, Alaska on October 29, 1966.  Her journey eventually took her to Pendleton where she met and befriended classmate Tracy Hart, who was known as a collector of friends, both people and pets, brought her home to become part of the family of Wayne and Donna McEntire. Donna called Mary her little butterfly as she fluttered around Meacham, Meacham Lake and Pendleton.  She lived for a while on the Umatilla Reservation and worked as a waitress in the cafe at Wildhorse Casino.  For many years she worked as a waitress at the Meacham Tavern and counted and planted trees for the U.S. Forest Service. Mary shared a special bond with her beloved biological older sister Debra and her commitment to family extended to other biological siblings as well. 

She loved being outdoors and enjoyed picking huckleberries, not to eat but to give away to senior citizens.  Durning hunting season Mary enjoyed being the camp cook for large groups of friends. She loved animals and was known to have a dog as her constant companion.  The first was a white one named "Jack", the second was a black one, whose name was also "Jack"!  She enjoyed milking cows and feeding the baby calves at the McEntire farm on Kanine Ridge. She loved to animal sit for people.  Mary was meticulous cleaner, not only dishes but, counters, cupboards and floors, the whole house would be spotless.

Mary's family remember her as a giving, honest and caring person.  She was a caregiver to people who needed care in their advanced years as well as people who were recovering from illness or surgery.  Besides in home care she would do their grocery shopping and shuttle them to Dr. appointments.  She would never accept payment for any of the services she provided.  She just loved doing things for other people. Mary will be greatly missed.  

Her foster sister Tracy Hart, who led Mary to her home and into her family, those many years ago, led her into her Spriit World as well.  Also preceding her in death was her foster dad, Wayne McEntire.

Family members who remain are her biological siblings Debra, Donna, Rebecka and David her foster mother Donna McEntire and foster siblings Scott, Buck and Shane 

A celebration of the life of "Meacham Mary" will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the McEntire home, 65107 Old Oregon Trail Road, Meacham, OR 19859.  Hamburgers and trimmings will be provided. Please bring your favorite beverage, a side-dish or dessert and a lawn chair.  For more information call Donna at (541) 969-8340