Mary Lou James, 94, of Green Valley, AZ, died on May 22, 2024. Born June 10, 1929 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, she was the only child of Harry Haven Stevens and Mildred Van Wegen. Mary Lou was a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and Michigan State University; she was a teacher for 25 years.

With her husband, Dr. Laylin K. James, former professor and Department Head of Chemistry at Lafayette College in Easton, PA, she traveled widely. During sabbaticals, the family lived in England and Germany. After retirement, they moved to Green Valley and continued traveling.

Mary Lou was a lifelong learner, lover of word puzzles, and avid reader. She shared her love of books through tutoring, reading to the visually impaired, establishing Little Free Libraries, participating in book groups, and publishing two books.

She was a member of the League of Women Voters, American Association of University Women, Change is Happening, and Green Valley Democrats. She volunteered for Green Valley Assistance Services, Books on Wheels, and helped to establish a food pantry at La Posada. Mary Lou was a member of Borderlands Unitarian Universalists, sang in the choir, was active on committees, and served for two years as President of the Board.

Mary Lou is survived by three daughters and a son: Susan James of Green Valley, Julia James of Marshfield, MA; Sarah James of Philadelphia, PA; and Jeffrey (Sue) James of Seattle, WA and five grandchildren: Heather, Nils, Emily, Stefan and Lily. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her granddaughter, Alice.

Memorial services will be held at the Recreation Center at La Posada on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 2 pm. Contributions may be made to causes close to her heart: Borderlands Unitarian Universalists in Amado, Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona in Green Valley, and Youth on Their Own in Tucson.