Mary Williams Snelson

Mary Williams Snelson, 83, of Wilmington, North Carolina, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on July 1, 2025. Born on January 8, 1942, Mary attended Harding High School and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

Mary was a woman of deep faith, unwavering love, and quiet strength. She dedicated many years to raising her daughters as a stay-at-home mother before embarking on a successful career in banking and eventually retiring with BB&T. Her commitment to her Christian faith was evident in all aspects of her life, especially through her many years of teaching Sunday School.

Mary found joy in life’s simple pleasures—tending to her flowers, working in the yard, savoring chocolate, and watching her favorite television shows. She loved all animals, especially her cat, Tiger and dog, Sam.

But above all, she cherished time spent with her family. Her legacy is one of love, resilience, and a life lived in service to others and to God.

She is survived by her daughters, Sharon Brock (Eddie) and Teresa Hinson (Dina); her grandchildren, Preston Pinkston (Erin Beth), Amy Pinkston (Dawn), Eddie Brock Jr. (Samme), and Josh Brock (Brittany); and her great-grandchildren, Preston Pinkston Jr., Curt Wade, Isaac Pinkston, Greyson Memory, Jace Pinkston, Sophie Brock, Lela Mae Brock and Parker Brock.

Mary is also survived by her beloved sisters, Helen Smith (Richard), Carlos Snipes (Butch), and Teena Allen (Butch); and her nieces and nephews, Scott Snipes, Stacey Bramhall, Kim Allen, and Jeff Allen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, T. Carl and Gladys H. Williams; her sister, Patricia Williams; and her nephew, Brandon Smith.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Lower Cape Fear Lifecare for their compassionate care and kindness, as well as to the staff of Morningside of Wilmington for their dedicated support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare in Mary's honor.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025 from 12:30pm to 1:30pm at McEwen Funeral Service Mint Hill Chapel 7428 Matthews Mint Hill Rd. Mint Hill, NC 28227. Funeral services will follow in the chapel at 1:30pm. Mary will be laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens in Mint Hill, NC.