Mary Elizabeth Olson (Hall) passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was born on August 11, 1944, in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Clifford and Mildred Hall, joining her brother, Bob. She grew up in Rapid City, where she cherished spending time horseback riding and exploring Canyon Lake Heights and Cleghorn Canyon with her brother—memories she loved sharing throughout her life.

Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She spent her adult life devoted to her husband, Roy, and wholeheartedly supported her daughters in all their adventures. Harney Peak held a special place in her heart, and one of her most treasured memories was hiking it with her family at the age of 72.

Mary graduated from Rapid City High School in 1962, where she met the love of her life, Roy Olson. They were married on December 9, 1962 and shared 63 wonderful years together. They raised three daughters: Brenda (Terry) Sterling, Amy (Marty) Graves, and Christina (Tony) Nunez. Roy and Mary were also blessed to help raise their nephews, Gary (Geneva) and Lary (Laura) Middlebrook, whom Mary proudly considered her own children.

Mary and Roy built a life together on their dairy farm on Elk Creek, where she loved raising her family and supporting the local community. She served as a dedicated 4-H leader, positively influencing many young lives throughout the Elk Creek Valley. Mary also served on the Douglas School District Board, serving as President for multiple years, and was actively involved with the South Dakota High School Activities Association. In 1979 she was the Worthy Matron in Eastern Star, Golden Link Chapter #14, and was proudly involved for many years.

Her commitment to service extended deeply into her faith community. Mary worked at Emmanuel Episcopal Church and was a devoted servant of the church throughout her life. Passionate about Christian education, she was actively involved with the youth group, Vestry, Altar Guild, and Church response. Until her illness required her move to Fountain Springs Health Care, Mary was rarely absent from Sunday service.

Mary also worked for the Rapid City School District, serving at Stevens High School, Central High School, and the Personnel Office. She later worked at West Med in Rapid City, retiring in 2002. In retirement, she remained active by organizing events for the Rapid City High School Class of 1962. Mary and Roy also enjoyed several years of travel, wintering in the South with dear friends.

Mary is survived by her husband, Roy; her three daughters; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; her special nephews Gary and Lary Middlebrook and their families, and many other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Bob, and her grandson Andrew.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on March 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 171 Kansas City St., with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cornerstone Rescue Mission in Rapid City, SD

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering faith, deep love for her family, and lifelong dedication to serving others. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved her.