surrounded by her family and loved ones on Thursday, July 17, 2014. Mary is preceded
in death by her parents, Walter Gayle and Billye Gayle. She is survived by her loving
husband John, daughter Emily Wilder (Jim), son Paul Bell (Brooke), and grandchildren
Caroline, Miles, and a baby girl on the way. Mary was born on September 27, 1950, in
Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She graduated from Banks High School and Judson College. As a
long time member of First United Methodist Church in downtown Birmingham (First
Church), she was admired by her many friends for her kindness, generosity, and loving
spirit. A hallmark of Mary’s life was serving and giving to others. Mary volunteered
with organizations such as Better Basics and Jefferson County Ombudsman Program.
She was also a remarkable quilter, avid gardener, and amazing grandmother. Mary was a
trust officer and retired in 2004 from SouthTrust Bank after 20 years. Even as a cancer
survivor for the last 10 years and a dialysis patient, she maintained her exceptional sense
of humor. In lieu of flowers, Mary may be honored by memorial donations to the
American Association of Kidney Patients, or First Church, or by giving blood at the Red
Cross. A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 28, 2014, at 2 pm in the Loft of
First Church with a reception to follow in the Parlor.
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