Life’s Reflection

Mary Lee Wayne was born in Strong, Arkansas, on August 5, 1920, to Charley and Havana (Smith) Roberts, both of whom preceded her in death. She, along with her five siblings, grew up on the family farm in Strong, where they earned their primary education in a one-room schoolhouse and attended Gardner High School.

In 1938, Mary married Grady Wayne, Sr., and moved with him to his hometown in Marion, Louisiana. They had four children, Grady, Jr., Marie, Willie, and Sandra. Willie died in infancy. Grady was drafted and served in World War II.

The family relocated to Kansas City, Kansas in 1950. Mary was a member of Calvary Baptist Church for many years before uniting with Mt. Zion Baptist Church where she had been a member 29 years. She was the oldest member of the Mother Board until her death. Mary was also an active member of the Jolly Sixteen Art Club in Kansas City, Kansas for many years.

Mary is preceded in death by her siblings, Deanna Williams; Orine Hinson; Ollie Bell Roberts; Robertine Henson; and Charley Roberts; husband, Grady Wayne, Sr.; son, Willie Wayne; grandson, Martez Maurice Dryden, Jr; great-grandson Mario Donnell; son-in-law, Donald L. Watson; and grandson in-law, Thomas Murray.

She is survived by five generations: children, Grady Wayne, Jr. (Sue); Marie Wayne Watson; and Sandra Wayne Campbell (Phillip); grandchildren, John Wayne (June); LaTanya Taylor (Anthony); Lori Donnell; Gary Wayne (Barbara); Deardra Murray; Erieka King (Reggie); Kevin Baldwin (Crystal); Tami Middleton (James); Mark Wayne (Lyla); Nichole Harris (Terry); Brett Wayne (Wendy); Phillip Campbell, Jr. (Chastity); Ashley Young; Garron Wayne; 27 great-grandchildren; 26 great-great grandchildren; and one great-great-great grandchild; sister-in-law, Laura Roberts; and a long line of nieces, nephews, and friends.