Mary Jefferson Obituary

Mary Nell Rhodes Jefferson was born on August 19, 1942 and entered into her eternal rest in heaven on January 24, 2026. She was born and raised in Benton, LA, and was the oldest daughter of Alvin and Lucille Rhodes. At the time of her death, she was a resident of Marion, Alabama. Mary was a former member of Cypress Baptist Church in Benton and was currently a member of Airline Baptist Church in Bossier City. She attended Benton High School, where she graduated in 1960. Mary retired from her favorite job at Christus Schumpert Health Systems, in the year 2000, where she worked off campus for the last ten years of her career with the homeless population. Mary’s favorite hobbies were crafting, fishing with her husband, and gardening. She very much loved taking care of her precious Irises. Above all else, she loved spending time with her grandchildren. By far her favorite titles were “Mawmaw” and “Great.”

She was preceded in death by her husband of 31 years, Garry Gene Jefferson, her parents, and her brothers F.A. (Sonny) Rhodes, Jr. and wife Joan, and James Lewis (Red) Rhodes and wife Martha. Mary is survived by her two daughters Lori Ann Martin Seagroves and husband, Mark and Dr. Pamela Lee Boliew. She is also survived by her sister Margaret (Moggie) Rhodes Beard and husband James. Her grandchildren Stephanie McCravey (Adam), Riley and Bodey Mitcham and great-grandchildren, Cori Lucille and Camden Roy McCravey. Special family members David and Emili Mitcham and honorary grandson, Nikolai Everett. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews to cherish the memories of their “Naynell.” 

Mary was also blessed to have a special group of friends, better known as the “Board Members,” who were more family than mere friends. These sweet ladies are: Becky Crumpler, Linda Houston, Marilyn Thomas, Bevely Little, Ruthie Ledet, Brenda Hoffman and Fran Coker. Also special friends Renee Peppers Thomas, Lise Laferriere and Jessica Wiley. 

Pallbearers honoring her at her services will be Josh Burroughs, Grayson Connelly, Tommy Dungan, Adam McCravey, Logan Parrie, Weslie Rhodes. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff of Bibb County Nursing Home, Cahaba Medical Care and Legacy Hospice for their excellent, compassionate care in Mary’s final days

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary’s name to the Cypress Baptist Church in Benton or Airline Baptist Church in Bossier City, St Jude Research Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children.