Mazie L. White, age 100, of Columbus, GA, formerly of Salem, AL, passed away on March 2, 2026. She was born May 17, 1925, in Pahokee, Florida; the daughter of Grover and Pearl Cranford. Mazie was honest, humorous, and devoted, and will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by all who knew her.
A visitation will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907, on March 6, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:50 am. A Celebration of Mazie’s Life will follow beginning at 11:00 am. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Park, 4500 St Mary’s Rd, Columbus, Georgia.
Mazie grew up in Florida and South Georgia, she graduated from graduated from Pelham High School in 1943.
Mazie dedicated her working years to Columbus Bank and Trust Company and then also to the City of Columbus where she retired as Director of the Senior Center, reflecting a lifelong commitment to supporting and strengthening the community.
She found great joy in square dancing and line dancing, continuing to dance until the age of 95—an enduring reflection of her energy and spirit. Her continued involvement with the Columbus Senior Center remained an important part of her life and a testament to her steady investment in others.
Mazie’s legacy is one of strength, determination, and caring for others. Resilient in all seasons of life, she will be remembered for the steady way she met each day and for the warmth she shared with those around her.
Mazie is preceded in death by: her husband, Joseph L. Gary, Sr., they were married for 27 years until he passed in 1973; Thomas E. White, to whom she was married to for 14 years; ex-husband Harold Murray, Sr., to whom she was married to for 12 years; a daughter, Debra Gary Doshier; son-in-law, Jimmy Smart; daughter-in-law, Vicki Gary; granddaughter, Jamie Smith; granddaughter, Leslie Smart; 5 brothers and 2 sisters.
Survivors include: two sons, Joseph L. (Kathy) Gary, James M. Gary; two daughters, Betty Gary Smart, Angela (Keith) Gary Wills; 10 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and 3 great great grandchildren.
