Mary Alyce Tierney

About Mary Alyce

Mary Alyce Tierney died peacefully at home in New Orleans on June 5, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born in Aurora, Illinois, on May 29, 1940, she was the daughter of Spencer and Florence Hunt, both of whom preceded her in death.

Mary Alyce is survived by her husband of 66 years, Larry; sons Brian and Michael; grandson Sean Tierney-Bondy; and brothers Jack (Donna) and Bill Hunt (Kathleen). She was preceded in death by her beloved middle son, Patrick, Sean's father, who passed away in 2009.

Diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer just six weeks before her death, Mary Alyce faced her final days with remarkable grace. She spent that time surrounded by friends and family, welcoming visitors to her home and connecting by FaceTime with loved ones farther away.

Mary Alyce's main interests in life were her family and art. A naturally creative spirit, she expressed herself through knitting, quilting, picture framing, doll making, and countless other artistic pursuits. While living in Davenport, lowa, for 25 years starting in 1968, she and Larry had a successful picture-framing business, which was a great source of connection and service to the local arts community there.

Their backyard pool became the backdrop for countless gatherings and celebrations.

Mary Alyce was a gracious host for birthdays, memorial services, museum gatherings, Eagle Scout award ceremonies, family reunions, and spontaneous neighborhood get-togethers. Reports of skinny dipping were never confirmed.

In 2007, ready for a new adventure, Mary Alyce and Larry moved to Boise, Idaho, where they quickly became active members of the local arts community. Mary Alyce's first introduction to New Orleans was during their honeymoon in 1960. In 2014, Larry fulfilled his long-held dream of making it their permanent home, and Mary Alyce, although less than enthused about their relocation to Nola, came along for the ride. Despite her misgivings, this move allowed Mary Alyce to become a much adored member of her local extended family, including both of Larry’s sisters, two nieces, a grand-niece and three grand-nephews, and her nephew-in-law’s entire clan.

Mary Alyce was known for her elegance, beauty, and distinctive sense of style.

Her family remembers her charming, often unfiltered sense of humor and her willingness to ask the questions others were thinking but hesitated to say out loud.

Those who knew and loved her are invited to honor her memory with a toast and to celebrate a life filled with creativity, generosity, laughter, and love.

memorial service

Funeral Mass

July 8, 2026

Saint Augustine Catholic Church 1210 Governor Nicholls St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA

Visitation starts at 9am.