Mary Louise Wesley

Mary Louise Wesley peacefully passed away at home on March 30, 2026, at the age of (96). She was born in Washington, DC to Mary Madeline Wilkerson-Rice. After attending high school in southern Maryland (Jarboesville), Mary returned to Washington, DC where she married a soldier and moved to the west coast in 1956, first to California and then to Fort Lewis Army Base, Washington.

When her marriage ended, she moved to Seattle, Washington where she was employed by The Boeing Company and retired after 29 years. Mary started as a clerk and eventually moved up to manager. She attended and graduated from North Seattle Community College, where she received her degree in business and flower design. She opened her first flower shop, Flower Etc. in 1984 on 23rd and Jackson, Seattle Washington. Some of her famous customers included Quincy Jones, and Liza Minnelli. Due to reconstruction of Jackson Street, Mary moved her shop to 23rd and Cherry St., renaming her shop to Flowers Just 4 U. Mary’s business lasted for more than 40 years and was the only fully operated black flower shop in Seattle.

Mary attended Saint Clement of Rome Episcopal Church Seattle until her death. Mary provided fresh flowers for the church weekly and also served as an acolyte. Mary truly loved her church. Mary was an avid bowler and golfer. She received accolades for her hole-in-one from the Seattle Times.

Mary was preceded in death by her mother Mary Madeline, siblings Sarah Jackson, Calvin Wilkerson, Leon Rice, Jeanette Rice, Marnette Chase, and special little doggies Sissy, Lollipop, and Ginger. She is survived by her sister Barbara Jenkins, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.