Mary Katherine Rafter Fausett, 87, passed away peacefully at her home on June 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Born on November 15, 1938, in Boston, Massachusetts, Mary was the daughter of Case Broderick Rafter and Katherine Freeman Rafter. At an early age, she moved with her family to Hermosa Beach, California, where she spent her childhood and formative years.

While living in California, Mary met the love of her life, Lewis Lynn “Poodle” Fausett Sr., who was stationed with the United States Army in San Pedro. The couple married and relocated to East Texas in 1958, where they built a life together and raised their 3 boys.

Mary was a woman of strong faith, unwavering devotion to her family, and a heart for service. A lifelong member of the Episcopal Church, she cherished her faith, her church family, and the friendships she made throughout her life.

She was also a dedicated member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 8904 for more than 30 years. During her time with the Auxiliary, she proudly served in every office and most recently served as President for more than seven years. Her commitment to veterans and her community earned her numerous honors, including a 173-Hour Honor Guard Award, a 100-Hour Volunteer Certificate, and a 150-Hour Volunteer Pin in 2022. One of her proudest possessions was the personal Presidential Gavel presented to her by her fellow officers in recognition of her leadership and service.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Case Broderick Rafter and Elsie Rafter; her beloved husband, Lewis Lynn “Poodle” Fausett Sr.; her son, Lewis Lynn “Louie” Fausett Jr.; and her grandson, Jack Cordaro Fountain.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her sons, James Fausett and wife Ching-Yi of Huxley, Texas, and Richard Fausett and Susan Sanford of Center, Texas; daughter-in-law Jamie Fausett of Center, Texas; her sister, Helena Carney of Roy, Utah; and half-sisters Janet McDaniel and Karen Blair-Imrie.

Mary was a proud grandmother to Tanya Fausett Lay and Jason Ellis of Ruston, Louisiana, Scott Fausett of Ruston, Louisiana, Erika Fausett Lovelace and husband Justin of Missouri, Joel Fausett and wife Stephanie of Anchorage, Alaska, Tabatha Steffik and Daniel Acevedo of Center, Texas, Byron Themis of Dallas, Texas, and Billy Themis of Center, Texas.

She was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Shelby Reaser, Nya Miller, Triston Lay, Trent Fausett, Tydus Fausett, Asia Yarbrough, and Reagan Mulch; and one great-great-grandchild, Baylor Reaser. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who loved her deeply.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of East Texas, especially Jessica and Pam, for their compassionate care and support. Special thanks are also extended to the oncology team at UT Health Tyler for their dedication and kindness throughout Mary's journey.

The family would also like to recognize the exceptional caregivers from Vicky Sneed’s Sisters Home Health—Kim Hennigan, Deb, Debbie, Pat Bush, Mona Bowlin, Marilyn Hogue, Natalie, Eva, and Janet "Skeeter" Belrose—whose care, compassion, and friendship brought comfort to Mary and her loved ones.

Serving as pallbearers will be Randy Fausett, Zach Fausett, Luke Fausett, Triston Lay, Robbey Dutton, and Steve Champion.

Mary's greatest joy was her family. She loved fiercely, served faithfully, and lived with a generous spirit that touched countless lives. Her legacy of love, strength, faith, and service will continue to live on in all who knew her.

The family invites those whose lives were touched by Mary to share a favorite memory or story as we celebrate the remarkable life she lived and the love she shared with so many.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Father Cliff Rucker officiating. Interment will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Happy Tails Animal Shelter or to a charity of the donor's choice in honor of Mary's lifelong love of animals, her community, and her family.