Mary Frances James

Mary Frances Perry James, lovingly known as “Granny” to her family, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, at the age of 83. She was a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend who will be missed by so many.

Mary was born on December 24, 1942, in Delhi, Louisiana. She grew up there with her parents, Herbert Leon Perry and Gladys Lucille Warren Perry, and her brother, Lawerence “Buddy” Perry.

Mary was a strong and hardworking woman. As a mother, she worked two jobs to support her two daughters, Tracy and Donna. She worked hard to make sure her girls had what they needed and always did what she could for her family.

Family meant so much to Mary. She loved her daughters, Tracy and Donna, and her grandchildren, Dayton and Chelsea. Some of the best memories were the simple times spent together as a family.

Mary was known for being kind, friendly, and loving. She was someone who made people feel cared for and loved. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing and embroidery. She also loved to shop, especially for jewelry, shoes, and purses. She enjoyed being outside, watching the birds while listening to her wind chimes. Her most loved was dancing. Anytime music played, Mary made sure to bust out some dance moves, especially if it was Elvis!

Mary leaves behind her daughter, Tracy Simmons, and her husband, Chad Simmons; and her daughter, Donna Wilson, and her husband, Jim Wilson. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Dayton Simmons and Chelsea Wilson, who will always cherish the memories they shared with their Granny.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert Leon Perry and Gladys Lucille Warren Perry, and her brother, Lawerence “Buddy” Perry.

As we mourn the loss of Mary, we fi nd comfort in knowing that she is now with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We are thankful for the years God gave us with her and for all of the love and memories she gave our family. While we will miss her dearly, we know that we will see her again one day in Heaven.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts

Funeral services for Mary Frances Perry James will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Hillcrest Memorial Funeral Home and Park. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.