Mary Elizabeth Webster

March 11, 1932, to October 7, 2025

Mary was the very definition of service and giving. Throughout her life, she devoted herself to helping others and sharing her gifts with the world. She volunteered with numerous organizations, including Kairos Prison Ministry, Northside Storytellers, the National Storytelling Network, and Prisoners of Christ. Mary was also a devoted member of Avondale United Methodist Church.

Creative and generous in equal measure, Mary loved baking, sewing, painting, and reading. She often used her talents to craft heartfelt Christmas and birthday gifts for family and friends. An avid storyteller, she delighted in sharing her tales—both factual and fictional—with anyone who would listen. Her passion for storytelling led her to establish the Annual Bean Soup & Storytelling Festival with the Northside Storytellers, a cherished tradition that her friends and fellow storytellers eagerly anticipated each year.

Mary is survived by her sisters, Chris Jeffcoat and Peggy Kinard. She was preceded in death by her brother, James C. Wear. She leaves behind five children and one “bonus daughter”: Patricia Folsom, Michael Cochran, Sharon Bennett, Kevin Cochran, Christopher Cochran, and Faye Storey. Mary’s legacy also lives on through her 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 15 great-great-grandchildren—with two more great-great-grandchildren on the way.

A remembrance will be held in celebration of her life on November 15th, 11:00 AM at Avondale United Methodist Church, 1651 Talbot Ave, Jacksonville, Florida 32205.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to https://www.kairosfl.org/donate.html.