Mary Inez DeFore

Mary Inez DeFore, 82, of Byron, Georgia peacefully passed away at home on October 1, 2024 surrounded by her devoted family. Funeral services will be held Friday, October 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Snows at Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Macon Memorial Park Cemetery. Chaplain Gene Saunders will officiate and musician, Christy Pinto will be playing for the family as well. The family will have a time of visitation on Friday, October 4, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. till service time in the funeral home.

Born on March 10, 1942 in LaGrange, Georgia to the late Lloyd and Exie Batchelor, Mrs. DeFore was a woman who cherished her family above all else. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, tending to her garden, bowling, solving crossword puzzles, traveling, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves. A lover of gospel and country music, Mrs. DeFore’s spirit was rooted in faith and family and she always made time for the people she loved.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 40 years, Eldred Latson DeFore Sr. and seven siblings. Together, the Batchelor siblings shared countless years of love, laughter, and likely a good bit of mischief, all of which made for cherished family memories that will continue to be retold for generations.

Mrs. DeFore is survived by her children, her son, Eldred Latson DeFore Jr. (Lori), and her daughter, Cindy Tengelsen (Tom). She was the proud grandmother of four granddaughters, Melanie Thompson (Chris), Mariah Coulter(Josh), Emmalee Jones(Glen), and Collette Jones, as well as seven great grandchildren, Avery, Ellie, Izzie, Whitley, Latson, Gracie, and Emmie. She is also survived by her sisters, Carrie Simmons, Ruby Simmons, Kaye Faulk, and her brother, Buck Batchelor.

The family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to Becky Etheridge, Mrs. DeFore’s beloved caregiver, whose compassion and dedication brought comfort and peace during the later years of her life. They also extend heartfelt thanks to the team at Heart of Georgia Hospice, whose unwavering love and care for over two and a half years provided immeasurable support.

The family welcomes flower donations in the honor of Mrs. DeFore and memorial contributions may also be made to Heart of Georgia Hospice in gratitude for the outstanding care they provided.

Snows at Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home has charge of arrangements.