Mary Rose Mullings, age 85, of Lansing, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at the Eaton Community Palliative Care with her family by her side.
She was born Feb. 27, 1934 in Knoxville, Tennessee, the daughter of John H. and Lura Mae (Gouge) Payne.
Mary was a true Democrat in every sense of the word. She supported her political party in every way possible. She was privileged enough to have the opportunity to attend the Governor's Ball while in Alabama.
Mary was an ardent advocate for social rights, with the needs of others always in the forefront of her mind. She was usually ready for a good political debate.
Mary loved her family with a deep devotion and cherished her time together with them.
When Mary was 40 years old, while employed by the State of Michigan, she decided to return to school. She earned her degree in computer programming from Lansing Community College. She retired from the State after nearly 30 years of dedicated service.
After her retirement she enjoyed her home on Gun Lake and Orange Beach and then in Fairhope Alabama.
Mary was instrumental in establishing the Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship in Fairhope, Alabama, then returning to Lansing Michigan to be closer to family.
Mary is survived by her daughters, Debbie (Carl) Watkis of Lansing, Cynthia (Larry) Powers of Charlotte, Rose (Don) Perry of Bellevue, Laura Young of Lansing, Tammy (Trey Glasscoe) Cary of Lansing, Christina Fender of Holland, Jeanette (Richard) Ransom of Lansing; 16 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Ernest B. Mullings.
In keeping with Mary's wishes, cremation has taken place and private services will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2019.
Those desiring may make contributions in Mary's memory to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
