Mary Alice Goodman Edwards

Mary Alice, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2024, at the age of 101. Born on February 1, 1923, in Burnsville, NC, Mary was the tenth of thirteen children born to Mike and Emma Goodman.

Mary served her country with pride as a Seaman First Class in the Navy during World War II from 1944 to 1946. After her honorable discharge, she pursued higher education and graduated Kings College in 1949. In October of 1950, Mary married the love of her life, Bill Edwards, with whom she shared a wonderful life.

Mary had a passion for gardening, particularly her azaleas and bird watching. She enjoyed playing cards with Diana, Jane, Virginia and Nancy, getting her hair done every Saturday by Doris. She danced competitively starting in 1984, for 10 years. Traveling was her second passion; her bag was always ready to go. Spending time with her family was her pride and joy. She was proud of her children, grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. Always a smile when she talked about them.

A devoted member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, Mary was deeply involved in the church community, especially with her Sunday School class, Circle, and book club. She was also a founder and charter member of The Home Builders Auxiliary of Charlotte, reflecting her commitment to building strong, supportive communities.

Mary dedicated much of her time to volunteering, with Club Scout and Girl Scouts, Red Cross and actively involved in all of her children's activities. Her legacy of service and compassion is carried on by her family.

She is preceded in death by her husband Bill Edwards, son William Steven Edwards, and her grandson Sean Michael Hensley.

She is survived by her daughter Pamela Edwards Hensley (Bud), daughter in law Lesa, grandchildren; Steven Lloyd Edwards, William Henry Edwards (Davi), Lauren Hensley Stanfield (Willie), and great grandchildren, Lylah and August Stanfield.

A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1000 East Morehead St., Charlotte, N.C. on June 28th at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution can be made to Atrium Health Behavior Health in Charlotte, The Red Cross, American Heart Association, or The National WWII Museum.

The family would like to thank VIA Health Partners (Hospice & Palliative Care of Charlotte), and VIA Health Partners of South Carolina. Also Inga Heath whom was Mary's caretaker in Charlotte and whom became a friend of the family.

Mary's gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.

Dillard Funeral Home and Sharon Memorial Park is assisting the family with arrangements.