Mary Alminer (Lilly) Edwards

God's humble servant, Mary Alminer Edwards, entered eternal rest, Tuesday, July 25, 2023, surrounded by devoted family. She was born June 11, 1929, in Stanly County, North Carolina to the parentage of Horace and Bessie Kendall Lilly. Mary, known to many as Mae, had a sweet and loving spirit. She was very devoted to her family and having a kind heart would help anyone. She was the best cook and enjoyed preparing big meals for family dinners; baking was her specialty. Nothing pleasured her more than dipping her Tube Rose snuff and drinking coffee. Mary was a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend. A humble spirit, she will be missed and her memory will forever live in our hearts.

Mary was educated in the Stanly County public schools and graduated in the class of 1946 from Kingville High School, Albemarle, North Carolina. She was retired employee of Collins and Aikman Textiles, Albemarle.

A believer, Mary was a former member of Union Chapel AME Church, Albemarle. Until declining health, for many years she fellowshipped with New Hope Baptist Church, New London, North Carolina. Mary loved her family and enjoyed spending holidays and family celebrations with them.

She has joined her parents and siblings: Florence Lindsey, Cleora Wall, Vanilla Blocker, Doreatha Patton, Gladys Harris, and R.A. Lilly in a place of tranquility and peace.

Mary's life will forever be remembered and cherished by her daughters: Elder Harriette(Bishop Ronald) Carpenter, Fleta (Melvin) Hooker, and Abby Merriman; sons: Gary (Elizabeth) Edwards and John Edwards; grandchildren:"Trent (Yolanda) Edwards, Latwanya (Alfonzo) Lewis, Laneal (Michael) Morgan, Raven Hooker, DaQuesha Merriman, Armani Merriman, and Tasha Edwards; great granddaughters, Deshera Edwards and August Lewis; great grandson, Jamale Cunningham; special nieces, Treaver Lindsey and Janice Crump; a host of other relatives and friends.

"Moms show their love in countless, caring ways. Sometimes just knowing they are there gives strength needed to continue the journey. We will always be grateful for our mother's love and support."

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