Mary Ann Burns Stokes, 91, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, in North Carolina.

Born on February 11, 1934, in Carroll County Maryland, the third of eleven children. Mary Ann dedicated her life to service, devotion to family, with a quiet, yet fierce, strength.

There was no challenge too great for Mary Ann. She excelled in roles typically meant for men: a Radio Repairman in the Air Force, taught Middle School math and science, and was a computer programmer under US DOD and later FEMA. She earned a Bachelor's degree from Salisbury University.

It was through her church missions that she made her most meaningful contributions —supporting at-risk children around the world, with compassion and care.

Both her career and volunteer work reflected her deep commitment to helping others during times of crisis—a value that remained central throughout her life.

Her love for family was expressed in thoughtful gestures and enduring support.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Oliver Burns, Sr., Mary Burns Patrick, and stepfather, Belding Patrick. She is also preceded by siblings, Loretta Best, Sterling Burns, Lillian Miller, Alan Burns Sr., Faye, Young, and Leonard "Tuck" Burns. Mary Ann's surviving siblings are Ruby Jeanette Miller, Linda Glasgow, Gladys Morris, and Oliver "Ollie" Burns, Jr. and wife, Elizabeth.

Mary is survived and lovingly remembered by her stepsons: Ronald Stokes and wife, Judy; Michael Stokes and wife, Cheryl; Jerry Allen Stokes and former wife, Marilyn Twyman.

Adored by her children: Henry "Hank" Stokes and wife, Jenessa; Rex Stokes and wife, Rebecca; and Lucy Stokes.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Natalie Largent and husband, Dustin; Miranda Stanfield and husband, Byron; Amanda Twyman; Jada Gragg and husband, Marcus Lindsey; Gregory Ring, and wife Jeanny; and Scarlett Ashby.  She also leaves behind great-grandchildren Oa Mavrellis, Gershom Stanfield, Sarai Stanfield, Estelle Largent and Ripley Lindsey, with one more expected in March 2026.

Mary Ann's presence brought comfort to those around her. She had a unique way of showing love—both quiet and fierce, but never unwavering—and she was always ready to lend a hand or offer support when it was needed most.

May her memory bring peace to all who knew her and may we carry forward the spirit of kindness she so generously shared.