Mary Holmes Stephens

September 10th, 2019 in New Orleans, LA.

Born in Greensboro, NC on July 29, 1926 to Nicholas Schenck Holmes and Mary Wyche Poole Holmes, she attended the St. Mary’s School in Raleigh, NC and Newcomb College in New Orleans where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and met her beloved husband, McDonald Lee Stephens.

Married for 37 years to McDonald, they enjoyed a fun loving life, traveling the world, spending time on their yacht and memorable summers with extended friends and family in the Northern Neck of Virginia. Always a gracious and generous hostess, she shared her beautiful homes with an abundance of family and friends throughout the years and created cherished memories for so many.

Widely admired for her elegant style and taste, she used her many creative talents to contribute as an active member of New Orleans Town Gardeners, The alter guild at Trinity Episcopal Church and The Junior League of New Orleans. Mary was also an accomplished and collected artist, who showed her works though the Circle Gallery and The Cole Pratt Gallery for many years. She continued to pursue her love of art and painted throughout her life.

Preceded far too early in death by her ‘larger than life’ husband, McDonald Lee Stephens, she is survived by her four daughters: Ann Lee Stephens Sarpy (Henry Leon “Bubby” Sarpy), Elizabeth Stephens Knowles (John Wingo Knowles), Martee Stephens Johnson (Charles Marion Johnson), Merrimac Stephens Dillon (J. Richard Dillon); 7 Grandchildren, 5 step grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren with 1 on the way and 2 step great grandchildren. All of whom will miss their beloved “Meme”.

The family would like to thank Laura Tedeshi for her special friendship, Donna Hankton for her consistent support and the incredibly kind and caring staff at Lambeth House for their constant attention during her 14 years of active life. We are appreciative for the compassion of the ladies from Guardian Angel Hospice who made her final days peaceful.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Trinity Episcopal Church, Lambeth House or the charity of your choice.

There will be a private service at the Historic Christ Church in Weems, VA at a later date.