Mary Alice Evans Pettaway was born on May 2, 1951, in Vance County, North Carolina, to the late Elsie Grace Burroughs and Elijah Evans, Sr. At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life.

On Sunday, June 7, 2026, Mary peacefully departed this life and entered into eternal rest.

Mary was educated in the Vance County School System and later became a skilled and dedicated textile worker at Harriet Henderson Yarns, where she faithfully served for 35 years. Her strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment earned the respect and admiration of those who knew and worked alongside her.

Following retirement, Mary found great joy in tending to her beautiful flowers, both indoors and outdoors. She cherished spending time with her faithful, devoted and loving husband, Otis, and took pride in creating a warm and welcoming home. Family was at the center of her life, and she was never too busy for her loved ones. She especially treasured caring for her grandchildren and often arranged sleepovers so they could remain close and connected, creating memories they will cherish forever.

Mary enjoyed crossword puzzles, sewing, and cooking, but above all, she loved the Lord. Her radiant smile could brighten any room she entered, and her gentle, sweet, and kind spirit touched everyone she met. She possessed a heart of pure gold and a warmth that drew people to her effortlessly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elsie Grace Burroughs and Elijah Evans, Sr.; her sisters, Louise Taylor and Betty Jean Pettaway; and her brother, Elijah Evans, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted husband, Otis Pettaway, Sr.; one daughter, Shanta Williams (Tywann) of Henderson, North Carolina; one son, Otis Pettaway, Jr. (Dywanda) of Henderson, North Carolina; five granddaughters, Destini Hargrove, Seraiah Pettaway, Briannah Royster, Layla Royster, and Jameelah Pettaway; one great-granddaughter, Sereniti Cobb, all of Henderson, North Carolina; one sister, Irene Hawkins of Henderson, North Carolina; one brother, James Evans, Sr. (Bobby Jean) of Knoxville, Tennessee; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A Beautiful Homegoing
Mary followed the path of angels, to a land where the soul is free. Heaven rejoiced as she entered in, claiming her sweet victory. Though we feel the ache of parting, we trust God's loving plan, for Mary lives in light eternal, held gently in His hands.

Viewing will be held at Baskerville Funeral Home Chapel, 104 S. Chestnut Street, Henderson, North Carolina from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Service will be held at Oak Level United Church of Christ, 5631 Jacksontown Road, Manson NC 27553 on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The body will lie in view one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be held at the church cemetery immediately following the service.

Baskerville Funeral Home, LLC is honored to serve The Pettaway Family and words of comfort may be shared at www.baskervillefuneralhomellc.com.