Obituary of Mary Stokes

On Wednesday March 25, 2020, Mary Stokes, loving Mother, and grandmother of two children passed away at age 67.

Mary was born September 23, 1952 in Columbia, SC to Charlie and Evelyn Carter. She graduated and received her high school diploma from C A Johnson High School. She later obtained her CNA license and worked as a medical professional as a young adult in New York City. Late,r she worked in the elementary school system as a para parent, and cook. She simultaneously worked as a foster parent for several years. When she relocated to her hometown of Columbia, she worked as an assistant pre-school teacher, and was later promoted to head teacher.

Mary Stokes was married to Bennie Stokes and the two enjoyed a 25-year successful marriage. They raised one daughter, Makeda Watkins and one son, Mario Stokes.

Mary was a spiritual woman who loved the Lord and was also a churchgoer. She loved to worship and fellowship with other Saints.  Mary was strong and determined and lead with unwavering faith. She was a special woman, she embraced everyone, even those undeserving of her time and acknowledgment. Mary was a virtuous woman who forgave her offenders and kept loving despite any adversity.  Mary was a visionary.  She saw her obstacles as a way for God to prove himself, and to use those obstacles as a way to testify to the goodness of the Lord. Although she has transitioned and is now walking with the Lord, her memory will live with us forever.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Charlie, mother, Evelyn, sister, Edna, brother, Buck, and her son, Mario. She is survived by her daughter, Makeda Watkins, and two grandchildren, Aryel Thompson and Dimitri Carter. She is also survived by her six sisters: Patricia Strother, Ethel Gadson, Norma Jean, Dorothy Jean, Louvenia, and Gloria Carter, and her three brothers: Benjamin, Lenzie, and  Tommy Carter.

Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, April 8th at 2:00pm at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Columbia, SC.