Mary D. Carter

Ms. Mary D. Carter, affectionately known to many as Ms. Mary, passed away on September 15, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on May 25, 1951, to the late James and MaPearle Dobbs, she was a beacon of strength and joy to her family and all who knew her. Her vibrant spirit and infectious laughter will be sorely missed.

Ms. Mary led a life marked by dedication and passion. For over two decades, she was a valued employee at General Mills, where her work ethic and positive demeanor left a lasting impression on her colleagues. Her entrepreneurial spirit later led her to build and own the successful Henry's Fast Lube.

Family was the cornerstone of Ms. Mary's life. She was a loving mother to Rich Henderson and his wife Toni, Don Henderson and his wife Amanda, and David Callaway and his wife Mandy. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply, guiding and nurturing her grandchildren, Taylor Henderson, John Henderson, Joseph "JD" Henderson and his wife Kaitlyn, Heather Henderson, Chandler Henderson, Zack Callaway and his wife Cameron, Branden Callaway, and Cameron Callaway. The joy of her later years was her great-grandchildren, Annie Mae Callaway and Grayson Henderson, who brought her immeasurable happiness. Her later years, she made the life-changing decision to adopt three young girls. She provided these children with not just a home, but a nurturing environment filled with love, stability, and the opportunity for a brighter future.

Ms. Mary is predeceased by her parents and her sister, June Dobbs. She is survived by her sister, Leslynn Abbott and her husband Gordon; her loving nieces, Amy Reed and her husband Van, and Christy Bell and her husband Robby; and a host of relatives and friends who were touched by her generous heart.

Ms. Mary took pleasure in camping in her spare time and had a lifelong love for animals, especially the many dogs she cared for over the years. Her feisty nature was well known, and she approached life with fire. Old cars were a particular fascination, admiring the craftsmanship of classic models. Her creative side found expression in the intricate miniature dollhouses she collected and created, each piece a testament to her attention to detail and love for the whimsical.

Ms. Mary's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to her family and her passions. She will be remembered for her strong will, her warm embrace, and the countless ways she enriched the lives of those around her.

A Funeral Service for Ms. Mary will be at 11 o’clock on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home with Pastor Josh Franklin officiating. Interment will be at Lawnwood Memorial Park following the service. The family will receive friends for visitation from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the funeral home.

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