By Rachel Lane
Mary Ann Lane (neé Creech), age 83, went to be with her Lord on September 23, 2023. She passed away unexpectedly at Novant Hospital in Wilmington, N.C. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother. She was also an organist and pianist, cook, homemaker extraordinaire, teacher, church volunteer, gardener, encourager, confidant, and seamstress. She imparted pieces of herself to help others grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally. She enjoyed helping others and watching them succeed.
Mary Ann was born on September 16, 1940, near Stancil’s Chapel in Kenly, N.C., to James Creech and Grace Inez Creech (neé Garner). She gave her heart to Jesus as a young child. After graduating from Micro High School in 1958, she attended WUNC (now known as University of North Carolina Greensboro) studying business and graduating in 1962. She worked as a secretary for a number of years while also raising her children, Nina, Ken, and Cristal. She moved to Surf City, N.C., in 1995 where she raised Cole and worked as a teacher until she retired in 2005.
“The best job I ever had was being a mother to my children. So thankful God blessed me with that position. It was through my faith and trust in Him that I survived the trials, heartaches, along with all the happiness, pleasures, and joy.”
Mary Ann poured herself out in service to her family and community. For over 25 years, she played organ and piano at The Gathering (formerly Surf City Baptist Church), where she also volunteered with the women’s group, served on the pastoral nominating committee, and taught Sunday School. She was a member of Women on Mission, at one point serving as the leader.
“Mother would read or tell me various stories, but the one I liked to hear over and over was the birth of Jesus. It amazed me that He was a King but born with the cows. I just could not believe someone would be born that way.”
Mary Ann grew vegetables every year and enjoyed sewing and crocheting. She loved hosting family and friends at her home where one could always expect an excellent meal with an abundance of food. Family favorites included banana pudding, chicken and rice casserole, pancakes, Watergate salad, congealed salad, broccoli casserole, and the family famous shrimp ball. She was fond of children and was well-loved in the community, serving as a bonus grandmother for many. She was always on the go and never wanted to sit still for long. She loved playing the piano and singing hymns.
"Being a Christian is the best possession I could ever have. The promise of eternal life by our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ is beyond belief and the greatest possession.”
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Grace Creech, her husband, Kenneth “Byrd” Council Lane, and her son-in-law, David Smith.
She is survived by her children, Nina Smith of Kenly, N.C.; Ken Lane of Stella, N.C.; Cristal Lane of Princeton, N.C.; and Cole Lane (Rachel) of Holly Ridge, N.C; grandchildren, Michelle (Jeff), Sam (Joe), Tamara (Matt), Ariel (Ashley), Casey (Eric), and Corey; great-grandchildren, Christina, Tiffany (Donta), Dustin, Joe, Gracie Ann, and Khaleesi; and greatgreat grandchildren, De’Anthony and Ky’ree.
A visitation was held on Saturday, September 30, at Parrish Funeral Home followed by a service honoring her life at Parrish’s chapel officiated by Rev. Bobby Owings and Rev. Danny McLamb (Surf City). Burial followed at Bethany Missionary Baptist Church of Kenly. A celebration of life service will be held at The Gathering of Surf City, on Saturday, October 7 at 3:30 p.m.
