Mary F. Philyaw

Mary F. Philyaw, nee Thomas, 84, of Columbia, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Thursday May 2, 2024.   Mary was born on August 28, 1939, in Thomasville, GA to Edward and Lena Mae Thomas, nee Stone, and her parents precede her in death.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Charles L. Philyaw and her daughter, Charlene Barrett.

During her working years, Mary was a cook at a government facility in Indiantown, FL.  In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, reading her Bible and making crafts for her grandchildren.

She moved to Illinois in 2015 and became a resident at BRIA Healthcare of Columbia where she made many friends.  She enjoyed playing Bingo, having conversations with friends, making crafts and collecting porcelain dolls.  Mary will be missed by all those who knew and loved her.  She touched the hearts of everyone she met. 

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Linda (the late Leopoldo) of Indiantown, FL and Charles E. (Angie) Cannon of Dupo, IL; her brother, Wayne Carlton of Florida, 12 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren in addition to extended family and many beloved friends.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mary F. Philyaw may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.