On Friday, December 5, Mary Lewis Strode Benson of Charlotte, NC, passed away at the age of 97. We were sure she would outlive us all, but she, as usual, had to prove us wrong.

Mary was born to Hughie and Myrtle Strode on October 4, 1928, in Glasgow, KY. She is preceded in death by her special grandmother, Nancy Temple Strode; her husband, Homer; her son, Byron; and her siblings William, Wilburn, Billie, and Fendall. She is survived by her children, Connie and Richard; her grandchildren, Shane, Kellye, and Tim; and her great-grandchildren, Haley, Liv, and Collin. A small private memorial will be held at Providence Baptist Church, 4921 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC, on December 19 at 2pm ET.

A best friend, a dedicated listener, an excellent advisor, and always ready to offer a hug. She will be dearly missed!

In lieu of flowers, we would be forever grateful for any help you can provide with her remaining bills and funeral expenses.

Thank you all so much for your generosity!