Mary was born September 28, 1939, in Jackson, Mississippi, a daughter of the late Jackson Perry Bowen and Neva Victoria Freeman Bowen.
From an early age Mary developed a strong work ethic and moral compass- qualities she strived to instill in her own children and grandchildren. Never one to sit idle, Mary truly took pleasure in her many projects and believed in the dignity of work and the joy of labor. Whether cooking and canning the gallons of fresh veggies people brought her, or sewing and crafting quilts for family and friends, Mary believed in staying active. Her love for the outdoors and beauty of nature called to her, and she spent hours proudly cultivating her yard. And she found serenity in listening to gospel music while cleaning and caring for her home.
Mary’s family was of utmost importance to her and times spent with them were precious to her. From family reunions to cookouts to simply sitting with her grandchildren while they fished, Mary was most content when with her family.
In her free time Mary’s favorite hobby was reading, especially her beloved Bible, until her failing eyesight prevented her from doing so.
In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Loyd Rayner, in 1986.
Survivors include daughters, Marilyn Watts and husband William, Linda McAlpin and husband Langley, and “special daughter”, Rita Westbrook and husband Kevin; grandchildren, Ashley Watts, Michael Watts and wife Krystal, Kevin McAlpin and wife Crystal, and Brenda McAlpin; great-grandchildren, Kyrie Watts, Colin Watts, Ava Rodriguez, Abby Bennett, Emma Ingle, Brenson Berry, Landon McAlpin, and Waylon Tyson; brothers, Robert Bowen, Joe Bowen and wife Claudette, and Bobby Bowen; and sisters, Mary Lee Bowen, Lizzie Boyette, and Peggy Harrison.
Visitation will be held from 11:00am until 1:00pm, Wednesday, July 27, 2022, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl. Funeral services will follow at 1:00pm in the funeral home chapel with interment in the Merchant Cemetery in Smith County.
