Mary Walker Dees

Posted on April 3, 2026

Mary Walker Dees, wife, beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, educator and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, at the age of 102. Born in Perry, on Sept. 18, 1923, Mary was the daughter of Howell and Cora Walker. Her life’s journey was marked by love, dedication and an unwavering spirit that touched the lives of many. Mary’s passion for education led her to graduate from the Florida State College for Women with a bachelor’s degree in education. She devoted more than 35 years to teaching in Dixie County and Taylor County, where her commitment to nurturing young minds left an indelible mark on her students and colleagues alike. Her love for learning and sharing knowledge was a beacon of inspiration in the communities she served. A proud lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Perry, Mary found joy and fellowship within its walls. She was also an active member of the Perry Woman’s Club, Taylor County Retired Teachers, AARP, Merry Makers and the FUMC Guild. Her involvement in these organizations reflected her generous spirit and her desire to contribute positively to her community. Mary had a deep love for crafting and sewing quilts, creating beautiful pieces that warmed the hearts and homes of family and friends. She delighted in sharing stories of her grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to express her pride and affection. Mary was also an avid supporter of the Florida State Seminoles, cheering them on with enthusiasm and loyalty. She was predeceased by: her husband, Hoyt, her son Ricky Dees, and her daughter, Veta Pinson. She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory her daughter, Kay Parker and son-in-law, Ronnie; and her son, Chad Dees and daughter-in-law, Karen. She was a devoted grandmother to Brittany Sater, Logan Parker, Grant Parker and Kayla, and Lee Pinson, and was blessed with three greatgrandchildren who brought immense joy to her later years, Stephany, Kylie and Shayne. She also had nieces, nephews and cousins. A service to honor and celebrate Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, April 4, at 3 p.m., at Joe P. Burns Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family graciously requests donations to the Building Fund at the First United Methodist Church, a place that held a special place in Mary’s heart. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Oakridge Assisted Living for their compassionate care and support, ensuring Mary’s final days were filled with comfort and dignity. Mary Walker Dees will be forever in our hearts, remembered for her kindness, wisdom and the love she so freely gave. As we gather to celebrate her life, let us carry forward Mary’s legacy of love and learning, keeping her spirit alive in the stories we share and the memories we hold dear.