Mary Ann Snavely Little

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Mary Ann attended Cleveland Heights High School and Allegheny College. It was on a blind date that she met the love of her life, J. Robert (“Bob”) Little. The two were married on October 15, 1960, and began their life together in Manhattan, New York. They later moved to New Jersey, then Wisconsin, and finally North Carolina to raise their family. Though they relocated eight times in five years, Mary Ann remained steadfastly focused on family and service.

Mary Ann was a model of selflessness and community spirit. Her generous heart and time were devoted to many organizations over the years, including the Junior League, Meals on Wheels, the Garden Club, and the Symphony Guild. A long-time and active member of First Presbyterian Church, she celebrated many family milestones within its sanctuary, including her daughter’s wedding and a granddaughter’s baptism.

She remained passionate about supporting others and served as a mentor to the UNC-Greensboro chapter of Alpha Chi Omega, the sorority she joined during her college years at Allegheny. One of her cherished moments was witnessing her granddaughter Charlie’s induction into the Alpha Chi chapter at UNC-Chapel Hill in 2016.

Mary Ann had a lifelong love of classical music. In her later years, she found joy attending symphonies, playing the piano, and even learning to play the harp. She cherished gathering with friends to share music and companionship. Whether cheering from the sidelines of a baseball game or in an audience for a concert, play, or Nutcracker performance, Mary Ann was proudly present and supportive.

She was a source of positivity, resilience, and wisdom—offering strength and guidance to all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness and dedication will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents, her sister Jean Conley, and her brothers Tom and John Snavely.

She is survived by her three children and their families: Patty Little Richardson (Randall) of Clearwater, FL, and their children, Jake and Sydney; Andy Little of Greensboro, NC, and his daughter Julianne (“Charlie”); and John Little (Elizabeth Wintermute) of Durham, NC, and their sons Isaac (Meg Barlet) and great-grandson Jonah, and Thomas Little of Armenia,Colombia. She is also remembered fondly by many extended family members and friends.

Mary Ann will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband in the columbarium at First Presbyterian Church, 617 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC.