Mary McAlphin

Mother Mary Ann Farris McAlphin

With hearts filled with love, gratitude, and cherished memories, we celebrate the life and legacy of Mother Mary Ann Farris McAlphin, who peacefully entered eternal rest on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

Affectionately known as "Mother Mac," she was born on April 3, 1948, in El Dorado, Arkansas, to the late Mother Stella Elmore Farris and Clay Farris, Sr. She was the third of six children born to this loving union. She was educated in the El Dorado Public School System and proudly graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1966.

At an early age, Mother Mac accepted Christ and united with Bouldware Temple Church of God in Christ, where she remained a faithful and devoted member throughout her life. Her commitment to God's work was evident through her years of service on the Kitchen Committee, Pastor's Aid Committee, and Finance Committee. She later served faithfully as Church Mother and was honored to serve as District Church Mother of the El Dorado Northwest District, later known as the Greater El Dorado District.

Mother Mac's love for the Lord could be seen every time the church doors opened. Whether she was doing her well-known "McAlphin Shuffle," quoting her favorite scripture, Romans 8:28, singing her beloved song, "I Thank the Lord," or boldly proclaiming three times, "Satan, you are a liar! You can't defeat me, the Purpose, nor the Cause! Because Christ is in me, and I'm God's property!" she left an unforgettable mark on everyone blessed to know her.

She was a hardworking woman who dedicated many years of service to others. She worked on the cleaning and cooking staff at South Arkansas Regional Hospital and later served as a housekeeper for several families throughout the community. Outside of church and work, she enjoyed spending time with her beloved sister, Huey. Together, they could often be found thrift shopping, treasure hunting, or visiting every dollar store in town while talking on speakerphone with their sister, Martha. Huey faithfully remained by her side every day during the three years Mother Mac lived at Oak Ridge Health & Rehab Center, ensuring she received the best care possible.

Mother Mac was united in holy matrimony to O'Ree McAlphin, Sr. Through this union, two children were born: Teresa McAlphin and O'Ree McAlphin, Jr. Her family was her pride and joy, and she loved them with a heart full of grace, wisdom, and unwavering devotion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mother Stella Elmore Farris and Clay Farris, Sr.; her brothers, James Farris, Robert Lee Farris, and Clay Farris, Jr.; and her beloved son, O'Ree McAlphin, Jr.

Cherishing her memory and carrying forward her legacy are her devoted daughter, Teresa (McAlphin) Murphy, and son-in-love, Ahmad "Boochie" Murphy, Sr.; two grandsons, James T. McAlphin of Conway, Arkansas, and Ahmad Murphy, Jr.; one great-grandson, Draylon James McAlphin of Conway, Arkansas; two sisters, Martha Ann Farris Hill of Los Angeles, California, and Huey Farris; seven nieces, Kimberley, Kia, Shay, Robin, Melanie, Yvette, and Yolanda; seven nephews, Paul, Clay "ReRun," Arlando, Reashard, Antonio, Mike, and RayRay; twelve great-nieces and nephews; two great-great-nephews; her cherished best friend, Mother Geneva Daniels; her special caretakers, Kimberley Farris and Kyntata Green; and a host of other relatives, church family, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Rest in the arms of the Lord until we meet again.