Mary was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on April 16, 1940, to Mr. Jocy L. Mahaffey and Mrs. Ruth Barlow Mahaffey. She graduated from Central High School in Jackson in 1958, where she played the saxophone in the high school band. After graduation she continued her studies at the University of Tennessee majoring in dental hygiene. After working in the dental field, she and her husband, Charles owned and operated Southern Orthodontic Lab for many years.
Her love of music continued into adulthood playing piano and organ, including playing for Harrisville Baptist Church.
She had a lifelong love for animals, starting with Peanut in her childhood. Over the years her children had the joy of growing up with cherished pets.
She was a woman of strong faith, and it showed in her servant’s heart. She always practiced being the hands and feet of Jesus, ever ready to listen. She loved and accepted all who crossed her path. She was a member of Crossgates Baptist Church in Brandon, Mississippi.
She is preceded in death by her parents, loving husband, Charles F. Crocker; son, Charles Kent Crocker; grandson, James Matthew Queen; sisters, Louise Fadden, Edna Breazeale and Jeanette Bridges; and nephew, James Throne.
She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Crocker; special cousin and soul sister, Elizabeth Seaney; one niece, and three nephews.
The family will receive friends from 12:00pm-2:00pm on April 22, 2026, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl, Mississippi. A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Lakewood Memorial Park in Jackson, Mississippi.
