Mary Massie Stephens Perry, 76, of Newport News, Virginia, gained her angel wings at home on Saturday, March 27, 2021, surrounded by family.

Love for God established guideposts for her earthly life and assurance of the eternal one to follow. Love for family and lifelong friendships with fellow Mathews County natives were the touchstones of her journey. An uncanny memory regarding both led to her designation as “family historian.”

After graduating high school, Mary Massie attended business school then served as a cashier for Verizon telephone company. She then became a loving homemaker who enjoyed cooking family recipes. Those at her table reaped the rewards. A dedicated member of Mathews Chapel United Methodist Church, she now reaps the rewards of a seat at God’s table.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert M. and Frances Stephens.

She is survived by husband, Elston N. Perry; a daughter, Balinda Lehan; a brother, Robert Lewis Stephens (Linda); nieces, Stephanie Barrett (Jeff) and Melanie Yesbeck (Matt); grand-nephew, Gage Yesbeck (Bri); grand-niece, Bethany Yesbeck; great-grand-niece, Marley Yesbeck; brothers-in-law, Buddy Perry (Betty), Leland Perry (Charlie), Gregory Perry; sisters-in-law, Toby Curtis (Roland), Candice Perry, Elizabeth Ripley (Wesley).

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, from 1-1:45 p.m. at Mathews Chapel United Methodist Church, Cobbs Creek, Virginia, followed by a funeral service at 1:45. Interment will follow in Haynes Cemetery. Faulkner Funeral Homes, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, Virginia, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mathews Chapel United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 125, Cobbs Creek, Virginia 23035. Please be advised that current state-mandated guidelines apply to all in attendance, including social distancing and appropriate face coverings.