Mae Winifred Avery

Mae Winifred Avery, a beloved sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and devout believer in Christ, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on April 25, 1929, in Chimney Rock, North Carolina, Mae lived a life marked by faith, love, and unwavering dedication to her family and country.

Mae's life was a testament to kindness, generosity, and compassion. She was a pillar of strength and a source of inspiration to all who knew her. Her steadfast faith in Christ was the foundation upon which she built her life, guiding her through every joy and challenge.

Raised in Chimney Rock and later moving to Asheville, North Carolina, Mae’s journey took her to Baltimore for nursing school. Her commitment to service led her to join the U.S. Army, where she proudly served as a Corporal in Japan and the Republic of South Korea during the war. It was in Japan that Mae met and married the love of her life, Thomas Avery.

Mae’s family was her greatest joy. She is survived by her sister, Patsy Purnell, and niece Gail Terry, and her husband Sherman. Her children and their families include:

• Reginald Avery and his wife Anne, along with their daughter Grace from Columbia, Maryland. Susan Avery, with son, Nick from Herndon, VA.

• Pamela Jennings and her husband Robert, with their children Jennelle Suchecki and her husband Garrett, and their daughters Lana and Molly from Yucaipa, CA; and Maya Ross, her husband Ocean, and their children Sophia from Perris, CA.

• Joyce Smith and her husband Ronald, with their children Jaron Smith and his wife Karla and their son Niko from Simi Valley, CA; and Rachel Smith and her son Isaiah from Rancho Cucamonga, CA.

Mae’s love extended to numerous relatives across Cleveland, Chicago, and Pittsburgh who also send their heartfelt condolences. Each family member and relative cherished her deeply, and her legacy of love and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to charities for Alzheimer’s and dementia prevention and cure in Mae’s honor.

Mae’s presence will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the eternal grace and love she so deeply cherished.