Mary Shepard Fussell

Mary Delena Shepard Fussell passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024. She was born March 5, 1930 in Wilmington, NC, daughter of Harry Emerald Shepard and Mary Edna Stokley Shepard. Mary attended Wilmington College, later meeting Clyde Fussell when his cousin introduced them at church. Clyde asked her out that very evening, beginning a courtship that led to their 51 year marriage, only ending with Clyde’s passing in 2005.

Mary loved being a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, cousin, friend and, most of all, a child of God. She was a member of Sheridan Hills Baptist Church in Hollywood, FL for 38 years before relocating to Tampa, joining Bayshore Baptist Church. She lived a fulfilled life, offered us her wise counsel and reminded us that happiness is a choice. Nothing pleased her more than being with her family and friends.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, parents, and dear sister, Betty, Mary leaves her loving children, daughter Mary Deborah Fussell and husband Jerry Phillips of Tampa and son, William Harry Fussell of St Petersburg and grandson William Michael Fussell of Ocala. Also, nephew Lee Harris (Mimi) of Wilmington and children Kent, Diana and Sharon, and niece Vicki Dice (David) of Moreland, GA, niece Sharon McDonald (Gary) and children Ryan and Allison, and nephew Ben Harrell (Jody) and daughter Johonna. Also loved by Mary was her family-in-law, Gary Phillips (Diane), son Daniel and Michelle Phillips (Mary). Cousins Lee (Louise) Rogers, and Mary Emma Fowler held a special place in Mary’s big heart.

A private internment took place in Wilmington on February 3, 2024. Friends are invited to join Mary’s Celebration of Life at Bayshore Baptist Church Friday, March 1st at 11am. In lieu of flowers you may contribute to the charity of your choice or to Bayshore Baptist Church.