Mary-Stuart Pratt Shouse

Mary-Stuart Shouse (Mary-Stuart Dent) born Jacksonville, Florida April 20, 1945, daughter of Stuart Hubert and Attala Bibb Walker Dent passed December 16, 2024 peacefully next to her loving husband. She put up a courageous fight against cancer and truly gave it her best.

She is survived by her husband Joseph Phillip Shouse, her sister Betsy Miller, her daughters Holly Pratt and Cabell “Cissy” (Graham) Wilbraham, grandchildren Michael Behncke, Dylan Wilbraham and Michaela Wilbraham, many nieces and nephews, and her loyal Shih Tzu “Max”.

She is preceded in death by her former husband, James Michael Pratt, brother Johnny Dent, and her sister Catherine Brantley.

She was alumna of Medical School of Virginia (now Virginia Commonwealth University) where she received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. She avidly pursued her life’s career in pediatric physical therapy working at places including Easter Seals, Duval County Public Schools, and privately in patients’ homes. Her proudest career accomplishments were being able to see her patient participate in a triathlon and assisting in University of North Florida’s Pediatric PT classes.

During her retirement she enjoyed travel, caring for her 3 Shih Tzus even provided PT for them as they aged, painting, learning how to play the piano, and knitting multiple scarves and baby beanies. This past year her painting took off, starting with paint by number evolving to stunning still life and animal portraits. You were lucky to receive a Mary-Stuart painting.

She dedicated much of her daily life to the Lord. She was president of Women of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, started the Bible Study for Women at Christ Episcopal Church, and is an active member of Church of our Savior.

It was beautifully stated by her niece Karen Brantley Akins regarding her legacy. “Aunt Mary-Stuart was a truly remarkable woman-a loving aunt, a devoted mother, and most of all, a shining example of a faithful Christian life. Her love, kindness, and unwavering faith were gifts to everyone who knew her”.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 4th 11 a.m. at Church of Our Savior 2092 Beach Blvd.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly request donations be made to the Church of Our Savior or to S.A.F.E. pet rescue www.safe-pet-rescue-fl.com (where she rescued Max).