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Obituary of Mary Irene Beavers Grigsby
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Our heartfelt sympathies are extended to the family and friends of Mary Irene Beavers Grigsby, who was reunited with her loved ones in Heaven on January 30th, 2025, at the age of 89. Mary was born on August 24th, 1935, in Lauderdale County, Alabama, to the late Benny Price and Lola Hamner Beavers. She was the sixth of nine children.
Mary is survived by her beloved sisters, Elizabeth Ann Cooper, Frances Harrison, and Margaret Allen. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother George Beavers, and her sisters Dorothy McGee, Ruth Hawn, Jessie Simpson, and Laurie Johnson.
Mary married the love of her life, Henry Lee Grigsby, on February 14th, 1959. Though they were not blessed with biological children, they lovingly helped raise many nieces and nephews, creating a family bound by love and devotion.
Mary and Henry travelled all over the world, but one of their favorite places to visit was Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They were passionate Alabama football fans and long-time members of the Ivory Club, spending countless fall weekends tailgating with family and friends. Their dedication to the Crimson Tide led them to meet Peter Kim, who became like a son to them.
Mary graduated from Lauderdale County High School in 1953, where she was an active member of the band and the girls' basketball team. Her talent on the court earned her an invitation to play professional basketball, but she chose to pursue higher education at Florence State College, now UNA. Her studies were interrupted when her father fell ill, and Mary selflessly took a job at Reynolds Metals to support her family.
Mary's career at Reynolds Metals spanned 37 years, during which she broke barriers as one of the first female supervisors. After retiring in 1995, her industrious spirit led her to a successful second career in insurance, which she continued well into her 80s.
Mary was also a dedicated member of the Eastern Star and was actively involved in local politics. She was passionate about the people and causes she believed in. This passion led her to campaign for many of Lauderdale County’s political officials and participate in sit-ins and marches during the Civil Rights Movement.
Mary was the family's problem solver, a force of nature whose determination and willpower were unmatched. She was the first person everyone turned to in times of need. Her family is grateful for her caregivers, Lori Givens, Lindsey White, Bethany Burns, Amanda Echols, Deana Daniel, Crystal Phillips, and Regina Blankenship who supported Mary during her greatest time of need.
Mary Irene Beavers leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering support for her family and community. She will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives she touched.
Friends and family will be received at the Lone Cedar Church of Christ on Tuesday, February 4th, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m, followed by services conducted by Tim Grigsby and burial at Tri Cities Memorial Gardens. Mary will be ushered to her final resting place by pall bearers, Landon Taylor, Lincoln Taylor, Zach Taylor, Zane Taylor, Hunter Jones, and Alan Compton. Honorary pall bearers are Steve Allen, Ben Beavers, Wade Taylor, Brayden Taylor, Joseph Holt, and Charlie Kimbrough. Their strength and love reflect the profound impact Mary had on all who knew her.
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