Mary Dee Bailey Everett, 84, entered into the eternal presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-n-law, and friend, Mary's life was a reflection of unwavering faith, boundless love, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Known affectionately as "Meme," she was the heart of her family. Through her guidance and steadfast example, she instilled values of compassion, kindness, gratitude, and benevolence in her children and grandchildren. Prayer was her refuge, Scripture her strength, and her faith in Jesus Christ was boldly and joyfully shared with all she met.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at Crossroads Baptist Church on Saturday, May 24th at 11:00 AM, where family and friends will gather to honor her legacy and rejoice in her reunion with Christ. Visitation will take place at Downs Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, May 23rd, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

Mary was born on June 30, 1940, in Gilmer, Upshur County, Texas, the only child of Ernest D. Bailey and Mary L. Oney Bailey. Her family later moved to Marshall, Texas, where she was raised and educated. She graduated from Marshall High School in 1958 and shortly after married the love of her life, Don M. Everett. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage, raising a loving family and building a legacy of faith.

After moving to Huntsville, Texas, Mary pursued her passion for beauty and service by earning her cosmetology license. Her warm and welcoming nature made her a favorite among clients throughout the years.  Later, she joined the staff at J.H. Moore Elementary School in Marshall, first as a paraprofessional then promoting to the school secretary, retiring in 1999 after years of faithful service in education.

Mary was a dedicated and active member of Crossroads Baptist Church, where she served joyfully in the Faithful Workers Sunday School Class, the Fellowship/Funeral Team, the Baptismal Support Team, and numerous other church events.  Her homemade meals, shared during countless church gatherings, are memories that will be cherished by many.  Her willingness to serve on mission trips allowed her to grow as a servant to the Lord and to other people.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Don Marcus Everett; three daughters: Tronda Everett Konvicka (Tom), Laurana Everett Luke (John), and Shan Everett Best (John); six grandchildren: Zane Konvicka, Sharisse Konvicka Ursua, Lana Luke Niemeyer, Landon Luke, Shaina Stansbury Jackson, and Ashley Stansbury; and five great-grandchildren.

Among Mary's favorite Bible passages was Psalm 23, a beautiful reminder of the Lord's tender care and faithfulness. She would want each of us to trust fully in the goodness and promises of God.

While our farewell to Mary is filled with sorrow and longing, we find peace in knowing she is now truly home, embraced forever in the arms of her Savior.

The Everett family extends heartfelt thanks to Heart to Heart Hospice and the compassionate caregivers at Magnolia Place in Jefferson, Texas, for their loving care during Mary's final days.

In honor of Mary's life, the family invites donations to be made to Crossroads Baptist Church  Mission Fund, Samaritan's Purse, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.