Mary Frances Williams, 75, of Lumberton, NC completed her beautiful journey on October 5, 2025. She is finally at peace after having lived with dementia for a few years. Born in Baltimore, MD, on November 17, 1949, Mary lived a full life. Being the pianist at Reedy Branch Baptist Church for 30 years was one of the highlights of her life. From Christmas cantatas, to playing for the Ladies Choir, Youth Choir and the Church Choir she devoted her life to the church music ministry. At the age of 29, she founded Chavis Studio of Music where she would eventually employ two of her students to help with her ever growing small business. For 10 years students from all across Robeson County would learn the joy of playing the piano. Many of her students have gone on to become professional musicians. While earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Pembroke State University, Mary was a Chancellor’s Scholar, a member of the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society, was Chief Marshal, and she made the President’s List all four years. She was also published in the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges. Mary graduated Suma Cum Laude (with highest honors). She received her Masters in Special Education from Fayetteville State University and also earned an ABD (All But Dissertation) from Fayetteville State University in Educational Leadership, meaning she completed all of the coursework and exams, but didn’t finish her dissertation. After teaching for 20 years in Robeson, Sampson and Johnston County School Systems, she retired to a full life of traveling, volunteering and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by her loving parents Leroy Stephen and Mary Theresa Hilbinger and her granddaughter Albany Kay Blue. She leaves to cherish her memory, four children, Larry W. Chavis, Jr. (Ruth) of Chapel Hill, NC; Theresa Chavis of Lumberton, NC; Anna Blue (Andre) of Rowland, NC; and Michelle Andujar (Frank) of Lumberton, NC; 15 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; One brother Leroy Stephen Hilbinger,III (Linda) of Baltimore, MD; and a host of family and friends.