Mary Evelyn Alderman

Mary Evelyn Alderman, 89, a lifelong resident of Tampa, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026. She was born on July 10, 1936, in Tampa, Florida, to the late John Earl Roberts and Nellie Jewel Roberts.

Mary graduated from Hillsborough High School in 1954. Shortly after graduation, she married her high school sweetheart, Walter Bryan Alderman, and together they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2022. Together they built a home filled with faith, love, and cherished memories while raising their family and welcoming generations of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As Bryan acquired ownership and operated Edenfield Plumbing Company, Mary faithfully stood beside him, dedicating herself to both their family and the family business, helping make it the success it remains today.

A woman of unwavering faith, Mary was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Tampa, where she faithfully served for many years. She loved teaching Girls in Action (GA) and Sunday School to young children, preparing Wednesday night fellowship meals, and serving alongside Bryan through Campers on Mission. Whether she was teaching children about Jesus, preparing meals, lending a helping hand on mission projects, or quietly encouraging those around her, Mary's servant's heart reflected the love of Christ in everything she did.

Mary's greatest joy was her family. She treasured the countless vacations shared with her loved ones and considered it one of life's greatest blessings to watch her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose quiet strength, steadfast faith, and unconditional love left an enduring legacy that will continue for generations.

When she wasn't serving others, Mary enjoyed relaxing with a good Karen Kingsbury novel, taking trips in the motorhome, and challenging herself with word-search puzzles. She found joy in life's simple pleasures and in spending time with those she loved.

Although her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in knowing that she is now in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, reunited with her beloved Bryan and free from the pain she courageously endured during her final weeks.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Diane Kendrick, Robin Alderman, and Lori (Ken) Clower; grandchildren, Allison Kendrick, Samuel (Lane) Kendrick, Amanda (Matt) Clower Dial, Paul Clower, and Amber Clower; great-grandchildren, Bryan Thomas Dial and Leighton Francis Kendrick; her sister, Latrelle McEwen; and many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter Bryan Alderman; her sister, Melba Owens; and her brother, Bill Roberts.

A Funeral Service for Mary will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Bell Shoals Church - Apollo Beach, 6414 Golf and Sea Blvd, Apollo Beach, Florida. Interment to follow in Fellowship Cemetery, 10232 State Road 674, Wimauma, Florida 33598, on July 11, 2026.

The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Friday, July 10, 2026 at Stowers Funeral Home, 401 West Brandon Boulevard, Brandon, Florida.

Mary will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband in Fellowship Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers, visits, calls, and expressions of love shown during this difficult time. Your kindness and support have been a tremendous blessing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary's memory to the Tim Tebow Foundation or Samaritan's Purse.