Mary Elizabeth Mayfield Carnes

Mary Elizabeth Carnes, of Sandy Springs, passed away on October 15, 2016, at the age of 89. Born in 1927 in Atlanta to wonderful parents--Garrison and Ida Lee Howell Mayfield--Mary was the youngest of six children. Growing up in a family of loyal church-goers, she discovered a lovely singing voice and throughout her life was often asked to sing at weddings, funerals, and other events. A devoted member of New Hope Methodist Church, at the age of 20 she met there her future husband, Charles Carnes, who had recently been discharged from the Navy following World War II. They were married in 1947 for 66 years until Charlie’s death. She supported Charlie in every way as he both worked and attended college and then law school, and later as he ran for and served in the Georgia legislature and ultimately as chief judge of the Fulton County State Court.

They had three children and gave each of them a wonderful childhood. There was no better mother. Absolutely devoted to her children, she was in their corner during all the highs and the lows of both childhood and adulthood. Teaching by example (and sometimes a few direct words), she exhibited a tireless work ethic and always showed kindness to others, demonstrating to her children how to lead a life of meaning and love. Later, to her six grandchildren, “Nana” was both the architect and the center of many happy family trips and gatherings to celebrate a holiday or just to enjoy sitting around the TV watching a UGA football game or Weekend at Bernie’s. She made them laugh; she made everyone laugh because she was just so much fun. And, of course, her own laugh was the best of all, so infectious that it could cheer even the most determined of curmudgeons. Her smile, her warmth, her cheerfulness, her kindness lit up any room she entered. She shared all these gifts with everyone she met, and particularly with her dear friends at Perry Realty, where she worked for many years.

Of course, no remembrance of her would be complete without mentioning how beautiful she was. Partial to bright colors, and able to rock any outfit she wore, she was one of those rare creatures who kept looking better with age, and she delighted in telling new acquaintances how old she was because no one ever believed it. Proving that clichés can sometimes capture a truth, she was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. Her family and friends will remember her always with love and gratitude.

Mary Carnes was predeceased by her parents, her four sisters and one brother, and her son-in-law, Philip Lindsay. She is survived by her children: Julie Carnes (Stephen Cowen), Kathleen Lindsay, and Douglas Carnes (Kim); her grandchildren: Kelly Campanella McCaig (Jonathan), Jeffrey Campanella (Emily), Matthew Lindsay (Kelly), Benjamin Lindsay (Trisha), Emily Carnes, and Charlie Carnes; her great-granddaughter, Brooke Lindsay. The family expresses its gratitude to the loving caregivers at Brighton Gardens of Dunwoody and to the wonderful folks from Crossroads Hospice.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 24, at 1:00 p.m. at H.M. Patterson and Son Arlington Chapel, 173 Allen Road, Sandy Springs, Ga. 30328, Reverend Don Harp, Pastor Emeritus, Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, officiating. A reception will follow the service; visitation is immediately prior to the service, from 12-12:45. Donations in Mary Carnes’ memory may be made to The Children's Village at Christian City, 7345 Red Oak Road, Union City, Ga. 30291 and The Salvation Army, 1000 Center Place, Norcross, Ga. 30093, or to your favorite charity.