Mary Virginia "Smoky" Shaw Mangum

Mary Virginia "Smoky" Shaw Mangum, 85, a life-long resident of Monroe, drew her last breath May 15, 2023 after a lengthy struggle with pulmonary fibrosis. Anxious to start a career, Smoky graduated early from Walter Bickett H S, and got a business degree while landing a job at Wachovia Bank in Charlotte, followed by several years at the American Bank and Trust in Monroe. Her sharp business skill blended with a unique flair and keen eye for fashion led her to acquire "Mary's," an upscale dress shop. She expanded the business, and it became a fixture on Main Street. She was actively involved in the revitalization project after the downtown area was practically destroyed by a gas explosion.

Mary Virginia was preceded in death by her son Curtis Mangum and her late husband Wayne Mangum. She was the daughter of Myrt Morris Shaw and Benjamin Shaw who too was a well known business leader and entrepreneur in Monroe. She was also preceded in death by her brother Jim Shaw and her half siblings Tommy Helms and Janet Helms Gay Hasty.

She is survived by her sister Linda Shaw Rives, her 3 sisters in law, Henrietta Mangum, Lenelle Mangum Hamilton, and Hazel Mangum, plus her nephews and nieces.

Heaven has gained a bright shining star!

The family will receive friends at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 26, 2023 at McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe with a service to celebrate Smoky's life at 3:00 pm. Committal service will immediately follow at Lakeland Memorial Park.