Mary Jo Slade

Mary Jo Slade passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, November 14, 2024 in Williamsburg, Virginia. Mary was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, James Harold Slade; her father, Chester Phebues; and her mother, Josie Mae Spencer. She was born at her grandmother’s house in Haiti, Missouri on June 21, 1946. Mary lived a life loving others. She worked as a secretary at Orcutt Baptist Church, Hidenwood Elementary, and Patriot’s Colony. She also served as bookkeeper for the family business, Slade Paving. She earned her real estate license and sold real estate in Newport News, Virginia. Wherever she worked, she wore many hats. She was a problem solver, comforter, a great listener, giver of wisdom, and friend. She was the Riverside employee of the year in 2008 and was honored for her excellent work ethic and compassion for others. At church, Mary taught Sunday school for a remarkable 50 years. In that time, she held babies, taught preschoolers, and young adults. Her sweet, caring demeanor made an impact on everyone she taught. Mary also sang in the church choir, singing many solos, and singing with friends in trios. Her warm alto voice was beautiful. In her later years, she loved to listen to the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and was certain that Heaven would sound just like them or ever better. At home, Mary was mom. Her favorite place to be was in the kitchen making wonderful meals for her family. She somehow managed to make dinner after a long day at work, help with homework, supervise her children’s instrument practices, and make a home that was the essence of pure comfort. She had a green thumb and always had the most beautiful flowers around her home. She could make any plant grow. Mary loved to sew and make crafts. She was a wonderful homemaker. Mary is survived by her sister, Peggy Phebues; her children, Kelly Slade (Cari), Stacy Lynch (Craig); and her grandchildren, Alexandra Riley (Collin), Hunter Freeman, and Megan Freeman. Her grandchildren knew her as Nana and her world completely revolved around them. She made a point to live close to them and be part of their daily lives, driving them to and from school and attending all of their sporting events. One of her favorite things was to give them generous and thoughtful gifts. She made her Christmas and birthday lists early and always came through with something special. She made each of her grandchildren feel like her favorite. She was immensely proud of each of them. As Mary’s life came to an end and she transitioned to Heaven, her family was present and comforting her. She was cared for with gentleness and grace by Riverside Hospice and passed away peacefully at Hospice House of Williamsburg. In lieu of flowers, please donate to this organization, Hospice House of Williamsburg, 4445 Powhatan Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23188, (www.williamsburghospice.org/donate/).