Mary Lizzie Fears

11/09/1930 - 02/04/2024

Obituary For Mary Lizzie Fears

Mrs. Mary Lizzie Fears, a resident of Lanett, AL, died Sunday, February 4, 2024 at Diversicare of Lanett Healthcare, Lanett, AL.

Funeral Services are scheduled for Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. (EST) from Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, 1601 Magnolia Road, Lanett, AL, Bishop Donald Lancaster, Officiant, Dr. Tanda Canion, Eulogist.

Interment will follow in Pine Hill Cemetery, 2167 22nd Street SW, Lanett, AL. Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley directing.

Visitation is Friday from 3 to 6 PM at the Mortuary.

Mrs. Mary Lizzie Fears entered the world on November 9, 1930, born to Willie Guy Booker and Annie Mae Crump Bucker. As the eldest among seven siblings, she departed this life on February 4, 2024, to join the Lord.

MARRIAGE

She married the late Mr. O.C. Fears, Sr., and their union brought six children. She was an excellent mother to them, and Mrs. Mary cherished her family above all else.

SALVATION

Mary devoted her life to the Lord from a young age, remaining a loyal member of Mt. Herman Baptist Church, led by the late Rev. Lewis Upshaw. She also became an honorary member of Greenwood Baptist Church, faithfully attending services on the first and third Sundays, supporting Reverend W.G. Glover and Rev. James McTeer, her spiritual sons. Known for her unwavering dedication, she held a special place in both congregations and was a consistent and faithful tither.

EDUCATION

Mother Fear's education, though informal, came from life experiences and what some may call "Mother’s Wit." She taught herself to read by reading the local newspaper and the Bible daily. Despite quitting school early to assist her father with farming, she was a great housekeeper, handled her finances well, and paid her bills on time.

WORK

Mother Fears was a private duty worker and head cook in her professional life and retired as a West Point Pepperell Mill loom specialist. Her commendable work ethic earned her the reputation of a faithful, on-time employee. Her dedication to providing for her family was evident in her diligence while working through illnesses and adversity.

HOBBY

She is known for her culinary skills throughout the community. She enjoyed making scrumptious meals for the family. She is known for her famous greens, lemon meringue pie, banana pudding, pepper jelly, Coosa River catfish, fried chicken, and most of all, her famous Kool-Aid. Her generosity included preparing meals for those in need and caring for the sick. She was the family doctor, nurse, and “go-to.”

COMMUNITY

Beyond her professional accomplishments, she earned various endearing titles within the family circle as " Mama, Granny, Aunt Mae, Sister, and May. Within the community, she is fondly referred to as “Mrs. May Lizzie,” which are just a few names that establish her as a leading lady and a pillar in the community, offering support to anyone in need. Her generosity, wisdom, and kindness were constants. The porch of her house became a hub for communication, counsel, and fellowship. A book written by her daughter, Dr. Tanda Canion, entitled THE PORCH, was inspired by her place of prayer.

In her honor, the MRS. MARY LIZZIE FEARS PRAYER GARDEN was recently dedicated as a place of prayer, meditation, and fellowship. Her impact extended beyond her immediate family to the West Shawmut and New Town communities, where she will forever be remembered as a matriarch.

FAMILY

Mother Fears was preceded in death by her daughter, Carolyn Fears Benton; sons O.C. Fears Jr and Blake Fears; and various siblings (Earlene Barrow, Georgia Johnson, Louise Johnson, Lillian McCants, Troy Booker, and Robert Booker), brothers-in-law (Charlie Johnson and Edward Johnson), sister-in-law (Louise Booker), and sons-in-law (Willie Hall and Eugene Bailey, Sr.)

LEGACY

Mrs. Mary Lizzie Fears leaves a legacy of faith, prayer, and endurance. She is survived by her three daughters, Annie Hall, Rebecca Bailey, and Tanda Canion (Michael); a special grandson/son, Alden Marcellus Benton (Leslie); one sister-in-law, Willie Mae Booker; one brother-in-law, Andy McCants; along with eleven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren; a special nephew/brother, Bobby Stiggers (Phyllis), nieces, nephews, godsons/goddaughter, as well as a large extended family and friends.

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