Mrs. Mary Lee Spells

Mrs. Mary Lee Spells, age 85, passed away on Thursday, November 5, 2015 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Born in Americus, GA, Mary was the daughter of the late Anna Mae (Jolly) and Crawford Gary, Sr. Raised and educated in Florida, Mary relocated to Utica in the 1950’s with her family. Mary began her working years at Abelove’s Laundry. She had an industrious entrepreneurial side to her that allowed her to support her family. Mary worked hard to balance her obligations at work and her maternal responsibilities in rearing her children. She was strong in her convictions and beliefs and did her best to instill those values in her children. A life member of St. Matthew’s Temple Church of God in Christ, Mary was a God-fearing, dedicated, faithful parishioner. She made sure her family was raised knowing the glory of the Lord and the value of Sunday church services. As time passed, Mary completed her studies in the church and was honored as a Missionary. Education was so important to Mary that she made sure all her children graduated from high school, and many continued their academic studies, earning degrees to improve their lives. Mary is survived by her children, Barbara Jimenez, Edward Brown Jr., Richard Brown (Diana), Harry Brown, and Valentine Spells, all of Utica, Sarah Brown of California, and William Spells Jr. of Virginia; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will also be remembered by her sisters, Katie Mae Lusane of Belle Glade, Florida, and Henrietta Blue of Syracuse; her brothers, Crawford Gary Jr., and Willie Frank Gary, both of Utica; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Mary’s granddaughter, Schyvaughn Lumpkin, and Darlene Mack-Brown for the compassionate care they provided to Mary, allowing her to enjoy her life in her golden years. Visitation will be held Friday, November 13th from 10:00-12:00 noon at St. Matthew’s Temple COGIC, 110 Washington Street in Utica. Mary’s Homegoing Celebration will commence at 12:00 noon, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation. Interment will follow graveside in New Forest Cemetery.

Mrs. Mary Lee Spells

October 25, 1930 - November 5, 2015