Mary Etta Deese

(April 7, 1940 – January 27, 2026)

Mary Herring Deese, lovingly known as Ms. Deese and MeeMaw to her grandchildren, passed away peacefully in her daughter’s home on January 27, 2026, at the age of 85.

Ms. Deese was a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and a loving sister, aunt, and friend to many. Her life was a beautiful testimony of her unwavering faith in Christ, her servant’s heart, and her unconditional love for her family.

She will be remembered most for her strong faith in Christ, her deep passion for her family, and her joy of cooking and comforting others. Whether through a home-cooked meal, a handwritten card, or a thoughtful phone call, Mary had a special way of making people feel loved. She truly lived to cook and comfort others. Her chocolate pies will be fondly remembered by many. She often said she wanted to make people laugh because it was “joy coming out and spreading its wings.”

Ms. Deese was a devoted church hostess at Morningview Baptist Church, later Eastern Hills Baptist Church, and also Capital Heights Baptist Church. In all three churches, she joyfully served the children of Christ. Beyond the church, she fed countless children, teachers, and staff while working at Davis Elementary School, Peter Crump Elementary School, and Robert E. Lee High School. To Ms. Deese, her work was never just a job—it was another way to serve others and serve Christ.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Emmett and Frances Herring; her brothers, Winford and Winston Herring; and her sisters, Frances Herring, Ann Bass, and Geraldine Denton.

Ms. Deese is survived by her three children: Derrick Deese (Cindy), Allen Deese (Tina), and Elizabeth Johnson (Robert); seven grandchildren: John Frank Deese, Taylor Deese (Jasmine), Kyler Deese, Jessi Deese, Noah Johnson, Alex Johnson (Mary Baxley), and Chloe Johnson; and three great-grandchildren: John Parker Deese, Ridge Deese, and Dax Deese. She is also survived by her brother, Victor “Red” Herring (Wanda); her sisters, Margie Cleveland, Bobbie Bass, and Cindy Ellis; along with several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank each of you, as well as Baptist Hospice, for your thoughts, prayers, and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eastern Hills Baptist Church, 3604 Pleasant Ridge Rd., Montgomery, AL 36109.

Her Coming Home Celebration will be held on Monday, February 2, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Leak-Memory Chapel.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.