Mary Anne Fentress Matherly

Born on July 17, 1948, in Martinsville, Virginia to A.C. and Mary Evelyn Fentress.

She was preceded in death by her parents, A.C. and Mary Evelyn Fentress, beloved daughter, Anne Michael Matherly, and her brother, Ronald Lee Fentress.

Mary Anne lived a life filled with music, faith, service, and unconditional love. A gifted musician from an early age, she graduated from Mars Hill College in Mars Hill, North Carolina, in 1970 with a major in Piano Performance and a minor in Voice. She shared her passion for music throughout her life, first as a public school music teacher in Henry County, Virginia, and later, after moving to Wilmington, North Carolina in 1975, as a music teacher in multiple schools throughout Pender County.

Her love of music extended far beyond the classroom. Mary Anne faithfully served numerous churches throughout New Hanover County as a music director and pianist. She was especially proud to help establish the music program at Lutheran Church of Reconciliation in Ogden, NC where she served as Music Director and pianist for many years. Through her music ministry, she touched countless lives and helped others experience faith, comfort, and joy.

When she was not teaching or making music, Mary Anne found happiness in smocking, cross-stitching, sewing, and creating beautiful handmade treasures for those she loved. Above all else, she cherished her family. Whether celebrating milestones, offering encouragement during difficult times, or simply spending time together, Mary Anne made those around her feel deeply loved and valued.

Mary Anne was the heart of her family. She loved deeply, cared unconditionally, and always sought the good in every situation, even during life's greatest challenges. Her kindness, strength, and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She touched more lives than she could ever know and made each person feel important, welcomed, and loved.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, James Michael Matherly; her daughter, Katherine Matherly Woody (Ryan); her brother, Stuart Fentress (Cindy); her sister, Beth Chapman; and her sister-in-law, Janet Fentress. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Hunter, Haley, Dylan (Grace), Ayden, Charity, Devan, Tianna, and Sophia, and a cherished great-grandmother to Silas.

She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; her beloved furbaby, Sunny; and her grand-furbabies, Basil and Sailor.

A memorial service celebrating Mary Anne's life will be held at Topsail Presbyterian Church in Hampstead, North Carolina, on Saturday, June 20th 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Robert Lapp officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary Anne Matherly’s honor to:

Topsail Presbyterian Church Music Fund

16249 US Highway 17

Hampstead, NC 28443.

Though her beautiful music has faded from earthly ears, the melody of her life, love, and faith will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.