Mary Stafford

Ms. Mary Willene Stafford, age 82 of Centre, passed away Wednesday, July 2nd at her residence.

A funeral service will be held at 12 noon (CST), on Saturday, July 5th at First Baptist Church Centre with Pastor Eddie Nation officiating. Entombment will follow in the Cherokee Memory Gardens Mausoleum. Family will receive friends from 10 AM until the hour of service at the church.

Survivors include her children, Rhonda McDonald (Paul) and Charles Stafford (Melinda); Sister, Barbara Ray; Brothers, John and Jimmy (Marty) Harper; Five grandchildren, Michael (Alby) Stafford, Katie Snyder (Aaron), Colleen Coomes, Tiffany Perez (Tyeler), Tyler Stafford; Six great-grandchildren, Max, David, Valerie, Rylie, McKenna, and Emma.

Pallbearers are Tyeler Perez, Michael Stafford, Harley Stafford, Robert Carter, Randy Rainey, and Dewey Reynolds.

The Friendship Sunday School Class will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Ms. Stafford was born on November 1, 1942, in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late John and Margaret Harper, Mary was known for her warm heart, unwavering support, and nurturing spirit. She dedicated her life to her children- instilling in them the values of kindness, resilience, and the importance of family. Mary was not only a mother, but also an incredible sister, wife, friend, confidant, and inspiration to everyone that knew her. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family, as she touched the lives of many in her community through her involvement volunteering at her church. In her free time, Mary enjoyed being with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, which brought her joy and allowed her to share precious moments with them. She also enjoyed the many trips and adventures she took with her sister. Mary will be deeply missed, but the love she shared will forever remain in the hearts of her children and all of those that were fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Noah Stafford, Jr., and grandson, Erik Liebenthal.

The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Centre First Baptist Church Building Fund.

Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.

www.cherokeememorialfuneralhome.com