Almarita Mann Underwood, of Oro Valley, Ariz., formerly of Arkansas, died on Dec. 7, 2004, at her residence surrounded by loved ones.

She was born Dec. 7, 1922, the daughter of the late Bristo and Azzie Mann.

Mrs. Underwood taught second and third grades and Title I Reading at Estes Elementary School in the Marana School District for 25 years. The Underwoods moved to Arizona from Arkansas in 1952.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Earl Eugene "Gene" Underwood in 1998; and one brother.

She is survived by two daughters and a son-in-law, Martha Underwood and Mary and Tim Maher; four grandchildren, Daniel and Laura Maher and Matthew and Mark Underwood; two sisters, Virginia Vaughn and husband, Maurice, of Tilton, Ill., and Vella Olds of Atlanta, Ga.; two dear sisters-in-law, Wanda Spivey of Kerrville, Texas, and Macel Moore of Piggott; 26 nieces and nephews; and a dear and long-time friend, Iva Lee of Marana, Ariz.

Memorial services were held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004, at Adair Avalon Chapel in Tucson, Ariz., with Adair Funeral Homes of Tucson in charge of the arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to the Marana Foundation for Educational Excellence, P.O. Box 90595, Tucson, AZ 85752-0595.