Birth Date: 09/16/1940
Deceased Date: 09/23/2023
Mary Ann Lane (neé Creech), age 83, went to be with her Lord on September 23, 2023. She passed away unexpectedly at Novant Hospital in Wilmington, N.C. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother. She was also an organist and pianist, cook, homemaker extraordinaire, teacher, church volunteer, gardener, encourager, confidant, and seamstress. She imparted pieces of herself to help others grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally. She enjoyed helping others and watching them succeed.
Mary Ann was born on September 16, 1940, near Stancil’s Chapel in Kenly, N.C., to James Creech and Grace Inez Creech (neé Garner). She gave her heart to Jesus as a young child. After graduating from Micro High School in 1958, she attended WUNC (now known as University of North Carolina Greensboro) studying business and graduating in 1962. She worked as a secretary for a number of years while also raising her children, Nina, Ken, and Cristal. She moved to Surf City, N.C., in 1995 where she raised Cole and worked as a teacher until she retired in 2005.
Mary Ann poured herself out in service to her family and community. For over 25 years, she played organ and piano at The Gathering (formerly Surf City Baptist Church), where she also volunteered with the women’s group, served on the pastoral nominating committee, and taught Sunday School. She was a member of Women on Mission, at one point serving as the leader.
Mary Ann grew vegetables every year and enjoyed sewing and crocheting. She loved hosting family and friends at her home where one could always expect an excellent meal with an abundance of food. Family favorites included banana pudding, chicken and rice casserole, pancakes, Watergate salad, congealed salad, broccoli casserole, and the family famous shrimp ball. She was fond of children and was well-loved in the community, serving as a bonus grandmother for many. She was always on the go and never wanted to sit still for long. She loved playing the piano and singing hymns.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Grace Creech, her husband, Kenneth “Byrd” Council Lane, and her son-in-law, David Smith.
She is survived by her children, Nina Smith of Kenly, N.C.; Ken Lane of Stella, N.C.; Cristal Lane of Princeton, N.C.; and Cole Lane (Rachel) of Holly Ridge, N.C; grandchildren, Michelle (Jeff), Sam (Joe), Tamara (Matt), Ariel (Ashley), Casey (Eric), and Corey; great-grandchildren, Christina, Tiffany (Donta), Dustin, Joe, Gracie Ann, and Khaleesi; and great-great grandchildren, De’Anthony and Ky’ree.
A visitation will be held Saturday, September 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Parrish Funeral Home (1351 South Pollock St., Selma, NC 27576) followed by a service honoring her life at Parrish’s chapel officiated by Rev. Bobby Owings and Rev. Danny McLamb (Surf City). Burial will follow at Bethany Missionary Baptist Church of Kenly. A celebration of life service will be held at The Gathering of Surf City, on Saturday, October 7 at 3:30 p.m.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at Parrishfh.com
