Mary Ann Chilton

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Ann Chilton, age 92, on November 6, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. Mary Ann was born in Tampa, Florida, on October 7, 1933, and lived a full and adventurous life.

Mary Ann met her beloved husband, Gene Chilton, on a blind date in Miami, Florida, in 1951. They were married shortly thereafter and went on to have two children: Gene Lowell Chilton and Fawn Carol Chilton (later Cowell). Despite the demands of raising a family, Mary Ann continued her education and graduated from the University of Tampa in 1970. She went on to become a dedicated 5th-grade teacher, inspiring generations of students over a remarkable 25-year career.

In addition to her passion for teaching, Mary Ann and Gene shared an adventurous spirit, and their love of travel took them to many parts of the world. One of their most memorable adventures was living abroad in Armenia from 1997 to 2000, where Gene worked on writing the country’s tax code following the collapse of the USSR. While in Armenia, they formed a lifelong friendship with the Yeremyants family, who later moved to Florida and remained close to Mary Ann and Gene.

Mary Ann’s adventurous nature didn’t stop with travel. She earned her pilot’s license and developed a love for collecting antiques. She and Gene shared a strong bond throughout their marriage until Gene’s passing in 2014, and together, they created a rich legacy of love, laughter, and exploration.

Mary Ann is survived by her children, Gene Lowell Chilton and Fawn Carol Chilton Cowell; her four grandchildren, Ryan and Christy Chilton (from Lowell), Erin and Natalie Cowell (from Fawn); and her two great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Christian. She was predeceased by her husband, Gene Chilton, in 2014.

A celebration of Mary Ann’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations to be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Community Hospice and Palliative Care.The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported them during this time."