Mary Collins Brotherton

Charlotte – One of the brightest stars to ever shine among us now illuminates in Heaven. Mary Lewis Collins Brotherton peacefully passed into everlasting life with her Lord on Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at the glorious age of 99.

Mary was born November 23, 1917 in Nash County, North Carolina to George Lee Collins and Selena Drake Collins. Mary was a faithful member of the Calvary United Methodist Church family of Charlotte, where she joyously served as a Sunday school teacher for the Junior Department, the Willing Workers Class, and the Sam Hinson Bible Class. She was involved in several Circles, The Woman's Society of Christian Service and numerous other roles at Calvary United Methodist for more than fifty years. Mary retired from Mill Power Supply Company of Charlotte, where she worked for ten years.

Mary was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother loved by all. She will be remembered for her steadfast devotion to the Lord, the love of her family (especially her grandchildren), and her passion for basketball and fishing. She was a great storyteller, and loved spending time with her family. Her bright smile, cheerful laughter, strong faith, and positive light will be missed dearly.

Mary Lewis was preceded in death by the love of her life, Joseph Wilson Brotherton, her beloved Joe. She is joyfully being received in Heaven by her husband, mother, father and her endeared brothers and sisters, William, Gray, Forrest, Virgil, Joe Henry, Phillip, Julian, Margaret, Jonah, Gorman, Estelle and Price.

Mary is survived by her dedicated son, Joseph Kent Brotherton, and his wife Ellie Barrett Brotherton of Sugar Land, Texas and by her most precious gifts, her two grandchildren Caitlin Marie Brotherton and Joseph Connor Brotherton. Mary is also survived by her younger sister, Hazel Spofford of Winston-Salem, North Carolina and many, many nieces and nephews.

The last few years of her life, Mary resided at Sharon Towers, in Charlotte, and leaves behind Nellie Lesnick, as well as several other dear friends there. The family wishes to express their gratitude to all of the caring staff at Sharon Towers.