Mary Etta Massey

Mary Etta Helms Massey of St. Augustine, Florida and formerly of Martinsville, passed peacefully on May 11, 2011 at Flagler Hospital, St. Augustine Fl. She was a Virginia native, born in Calloway on Dec. 20, 1915 to Walker and Elizabeth King Helms. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Hilman Alexander “Jack” Massey and brothers Samuel and John.

She graduated from St. Peter’s Episcopal School where she later taught Kindergarten before moving to Martinsville, where she worked at Efford’s store.

She was a member of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church. Mary was an active member of the Cora Lee Bible Class, the Challenger’s Circle of United Methodist Women, and the Young at Heart Group.

She lived with her daughter in St. Augustine FL from 2007-20010, when she moved to The Pavilion, an Assisted-Living Facility.

She was an avid gardener and horticulturist. She loved being outdoors and her flowers. She was an animal advocate, and lived with her rescue kitty Chrissy.

She leaves behind two daughters, Janet Gilmer and Sandra Kay Eggleston, two sons-in-law. Jerry Gilmer, Francis Eggleston, and her beloved Granddaughter Melissa Gilmer. She also leaves a number of nieces and nephews, and many friends. She was loved by all who knew her. Her kindness, warmth and generosity will be missed by all.

Funeral services will be held at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church on Tue. 11:00 pm, Martinsville VA. Interment will be in Roselawn Burial Park . Family visitation will be Mon. 4:00pm-6:00pm at Collins- McKee- Stone Funeral Home, Martinsville Chapel.