Mary W. Hendrix

Mary Will Hendrix (nee Ferguson) was born on May 11, 1941, in Lowndes County, Mississippi, to Sylvester “Honey” and Mary Lee Ferguson, both of whom preceded her in death. Mary received her education through the Columbus Municipal School District in Columbus, Mississippi. She attended Mitchell Memorial Elementary School and went on to graduate from Robert E. Hunt High School in 1961. Throughout her school years, she was an avid reader and enjoyed home economics. After graduation, Mary moved to St. Louis, Missouri and met the love of her life, James “Sonny” Hendrix, Jr. On April 16, 1962, Mary and James were united in Holy matrimony, and from this union two daughters were born, Jacqueline “Jackie” Hendrix and Pamela “Pam” Hendrix. Her husband James, and daughters, Jackie and Pam, all preceded her in death. Some of Mary’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. They took yearly family trips to visit museums, waterparks, historical landmarks, horseback riding trails, and camp sites to enjoy quality time. Whenever time allowed, she would visit her childhood home in Columbus, MS, for high school reunions, to celebrate the 8th of May Emancipation Celebration, and to reminisce on the good ole days with family and friends. Mary was a long-standing member of the Dellwood 60 Plus Club as well. Whether by land, sea or air, Mary was well traveled, gaining firsthand knowledge and a broader perspective through her life experiences. She was also known as a frequent cruiser. On her 25th year of cruising with the Carnival Cruise Line, she celebrated an unforgettable time with her daughter, Pam. They enjoyed the time of their lives. From 1965 to 2001, Mary worked as a food preparer for Dobbs International Services, the leading global airline catering and food service company. Through her years of service to othersand her warm personality, she developed many friendships fostering an ever-pleasant work environment. In addition, she was a retired member of Teamsters Local 688 Labor Union. Mary’s journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, and her unwavering faith in God. She confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized at Prairie Chapel Missionary Church in Lowndes County, MS. Mary was a long-standing member of Monumental Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Johnson White. As a continued demonstration of her love, she became her neighborhood’s beloved and trusted babysitter. On Friday, April 25, 2025, at 7:52am, Mary transitioned from this life to eternity. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends and the many lives she has touched. Although her physical presence may no longer grace our lives, may we carry forth her legacy of love, kindness and gentleness in all that we do. Mary is survived by her two grandsons, James “Tony” Smith and Donald “Don” Smith; two sisters, Sallie (OC) Murry and Lue Ella Ferguson; one brother, Sylvester Ferguson Jr.; twelve – great grandchildren; two – great great grandchildren, a host of family, friends and acquaintances to carry on her memory.

Mary W. Hendrix

May 11, 1941 - April 25, 2025