The Obituary

Death is a joyous message of peace whose hands open to the weary. Pilgrim in the gate of immortality and let the oppressed go free. Without advanced preparation, life's often joyous and sometimes tumultuous battle came to a close for Sister Mary Lee Washington when death freed the soul of our dear sister Sunday May 18, 2025.

Sister Mary Lee Washington was born on June 16, 1926, to the late Georigan and Isom Washington.

Mary joined church at a young age. On April 4, 1958, Sister Washington joined Mount Paran Missionary Baptist Church under the pastoral tutelage of the late Clarence L. Pennywell, Sr.

Mother Mary was the oldest living member of Mt. Paran and earned the title of Mother of the Church for her faithfulness and relationship with God.

She found immense joy in sharing her handmade quilts with family and friends, each stitch a labor of love, and a testament to her patience and devotion. Her gentle spirit touched all who knew her, and her wisdom guided generations in both her family and her church community.

As a pillar of Mount Paran Missionary Baptist Church, she was a source of inspiration and guidance, weaving her faith into the fabric of everyday life. Through decades of service and prayer, Mother Mary Lee Washington became a cherished mentor, a steadfast friend, and an unwavering example of a life lived with purpose and grace.

Her legacy is etched in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to call her family, friend, or sister in faith. Though she has departed from this earthly realm, her memory will forever serve as a beacon of hope, love, and faithfulness, illuminating the path for those she leaves behind.

Preceding Sister Washington in death were her parents, her daughter Dorothy Green, her son Charles Washington, two brothers Albert Cooley Wiggins, Isom Washington, Sister Artis M. Washington and six (6) grandchildren.

Left to cherish Mother Mary's memories are:

One(1) son, Willie Washington (Joyce)

eighteen (18) grandchildren

forty-three (43) great grandchildren

fifty (50) great-great grandchildren

and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family and friends.