Mary Sampson Wilkinson

Mary was born on July 30th, 1926 to Albert Lloyd Sampson and Eunice Ester (Blake) Sampson in Corliss, WV. After graduating from high school, Mary enjoyed working as a secretary at the Pentagon and later as a data entry operator for Rexham Corp. in Charlotte.

In 1975 Mary (Mama) married Richard (Dick) Wilkinson. They were married for 38 years until his passing in 2013. Over the years they built a life centered on faith, family, work and community. Together they were faithful members of Grace Church and later Chalmers Memorial Church (now Starmount Church). Following retirement, they focused on giving back to the community and volunteered for 10 years with Friendship Trays and Meals on Wheels.

Mary exemplified a legacy of faith, love and care to all she met. She opened her home and her heart to family, friends and neighbors. All were welcome for feasts and laughter. Frequently the den and the patio would serve as the place to gather for lemonade or coffee to visit. Mary loved music (particularly hymns) and enjoyed singing, playing the piano and encouraging anyone and everyone to play and sing along.

Survived by children; Ronald G. Forren (Patricia), Robert A. Forren and Kim (Wilkinson) Denison, grandchildren; Kimberly Forren, Ronnie Forren and Travis Jones, great-grandchildren; Selah, Kevin and Shiloh, loving nieces; Gina (Gigi) Miller (Don) and Susie Hall (Tex), and very dear friends Michael and Michelle Lippard.

Preceded in death by spouse (Richard / Dick), parents (Ester) and (Albert), and brothers (Lloyd Sampson) and (Charles Sampson).

Family and friends are invited to gather at McEwen Funeral Service-Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park Rd., Charlotte, NC at 2pm on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 for an hour of visitation.

Pastor Alex Lott of Starmount Church will be officiating the graveside service to follow at Grandview Memorial Park, 620 S. Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC at 3:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Meals on Wheels, operated by Nourish Up (formerly Friendship Trays) would be greatly appreciated.