Mary Ella Martin was born December 7, 1944 to Charlie and Susie Thornton in Shiner, Texas. Mary accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of Rev. A. D. Henderson of St. James Baptist Church in Yoakum, Texas. Mary relocated to San Antonio, Texas, becoming a member of Memorial Missionary Baptist Church under direction of Rev. J. L. Sanders, and now currently Rev. E. J. Morris. Mary received her education graduating from Asberry High School in Yoakum, Texas.