Ollie Mae Rash, affectionately known as "Scrappy," passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, in Beaumont, Texas, just a few days shy of her 90th birthday. Born on October 27, 1935, in Bronson, Texas, Ollie was the youngest of ten children born to Willis Curtis Craig and Pearl Lee Smith Craig. Her childhood, filled with the ebbs and flows of growing up among her older siblings, molded her into the spirited and loving woman we all came to cherish. Even before her arrival, she embraced the role of an aunt, forging bonds with family that would last a lifetime.
As a devoted housewife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ollie dedicated her life to creating a nurturing haven for her family along with her loving husband of almost 50 years, John H. Rash. Her greatest pride was her two wonderful children, Ann Rash Merchant of Cleveland, Texas, and Randy Rash and his wife Donna of Lumberton, Texas. Ollie loved the soulfulness of motherhood, transforming from the scrappy little fighter of her youth into a gentle presence adored by her family.
Ollie's love for gardening blossomed alongside her familial bonds. With a greenhouse in her backyard, she nurtured not just plants but the love and laughter shared during countless visits with her grandchildren. "Mammaw loved all kids," they fondly remembered, as they recounted afternoons spent playfully sharing stories that would become cherished memories.
Her legacy extends to her adored grandchildren: Shea Merchant of Austin, Texas, Paige May of Coldsprings, Texas, Brian May of Shepherd, Texas, and Brian Leatherwood, along with his wife Brandi of Orange, Texas. Ollie’s love radiated even further with her treasured great-grandchildren—Faith May, Brinlee May, Zoe Leatherwood, and Seth Leatherwood—who brought her immeasurable joy as they filled her days with laughter and smiles.
A member of First Baptist Church in Loeb, Ollie's faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through both trials and celebrations. She was known for her unwavering kindness and generosity, often finding ways to lend a helping hand or offer a warm hug to those in need.
Ollie Mae Rash will forever be remembered not only for her vibrant spirit and devotion to family but also for the profound impact she had on those who were privileged to know her. As her family prepares for the journey of saying goodbye, they invite all who loved her to gather for a visitation from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM on August 30, 2025, at Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home, located at 1155 N 11th St, Beaumont, TX. After the service, she will be laid to rest at Restlawn Cemetery in Vidor, Texas.
Ollie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength, and though her physical presence may be gone, her spirit will continue to thrive in the hearts of her family and friends.