Mary Emogine Lee Dyess, born January 6, 1926 in rural Choctaw County, AL near Silas died at her home on August 9, 2020 at the age of 94. The relationship with her eventual husband of 68 years was rekindled because of a letter inside a letter sent to her mother, Nina Lee, from the South Pacific by James E. Dyess, Sr. while he was serving in the Navy during WWII. In the letter to his future mother-in-law he asked that if her daughter was still single and unattached that his other letter be given to her. Can you imagine the feeling when James received a response from his future wife while sitting on the battleship USS New Jersey? Their relationship resulted in marriage on October 12, 1946. On their honeymoon they were required to show their marriage license to the desk clerk at the old motel on Hwy 90 in Spanish Fort before he would agree to rent them a room. The next day being Saturday they set about the quest of finding an apartment in Mobile since they both had to be at work on Monday morning. After several failed attempts they saw a woman on Clinton Avenue in Toulminville walking out to the street holding an “Apartment for Rent” sign. The rest is history; our Family History.
A longtime resident of Mobile, “Miss Emogine” as she was fondly known by many, was a loving wife, daughter and mother. She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, James Edison Dyess, Sr.; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Lee; and five of her siblings.
Her family was her life. Active in PTA and her children’s school affairs in early years, Mary Emogine spent her life taking care of everyone. She was a longtime active member of Overlook Presbyterian Church. Her quick wit and keen sense of humor made her a favorite in the family!
Her survivors include one brother, Rev. Ralph Lee (Donna) of Isney, Alabama, two daughters, Gay Dyess-Dean (Wayne) of Atlanta, Darlene Dyess of Mobile, son James E. Dyess, Jr. (Roxann) of Mobile, and two grandchildren, Katie Clausheide (Ronnie) and Forrest Holston (Jenn) and two great-grandchildren, Luke Clausheide and Mattie Holston, who will miss her to the moon and back. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Get ready heaven, Miss Emogine is on her way.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 15th, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Isney Baptist Church Cemetery, 1168 Highway 84, Silas, Alabama, 36919. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Isney Cemetery Association c/o Isney Baptist Church Attn: Georgia Dozier, 1062 Highway 84, Silas, AL 36919.
