Surrounded by family, Mary Sue Waters Lightsey, 84, passed away in her home on Friday, July 31, 2026. 

Mary was born in Alma, GA on May 27, 1942 to the late C.L. and Mildred Waters. She met her husband, Ray Lightsey of Appling County, while cruising the strip in Alma. They celebrated 62 years of marriage this past December and have lived in Jesup for 61 years. Mary graduated from Bacon County high school in 1960. She worked as a para-professional (primarily in kindergarten) at Orange Street Elementary and then James E. Bacon Elementary School in Jesup from 1979 to 2002. While running around town, it was quite common for Mary to run into her former kindergarten students out shopping with their own children. She loved her students and still has cards that students made for her years ago.

Mary grew up on her parents' farm and work started at a young age. As one of seven children along with a couple young uncles, the kitchen stayed busy, so her mama pulled her from the field around the age of 12 to begin cooking for the family. Mary was an amazing cook. She could take some flour and butter along with a few staples from the cupboard and serve a Sunday dinner fit for a king. Her baking skills were legendary. Her 10-layer chocolate cake was a much-requested treat at family gatherings. During holidays, many folks would come knocking on her door to buy one of her pumpkin rolls to share with their family. At potluck suppers, the church family knew to make a beeline for Mary's dishes before her food was gone. 

Mary was a charter member of Faith Chapel in Jesup, established in 1977. Here, she volunteered as treasurer for more than 40 years. Although she served in many aspects of ministry at Faith Chapel, her delight was teaching children about God's love. She has taught countless Bible lessons, rocked numerous babies while their mama's attended service, and sewn many costumes for church plays.

Aside from her given name, she was known by many names including Mama, Nana, Nanny, Grand Mary, and Biggie. Her newest title of great grandmother came 1 month ago with the birth of her first great grandchild, Harper Rose.

Mary had 2 sons, but she became second mama to many. Her sons' friends knew they were always welcome at the house and there would be a seat at the table for them. Young folks at the church commonly sought advice from Mary, whether about life or just about cooking. And all knew that a hug from Mary was ready and waiting.

Mary lived her life to honor God. She did not hesitate to share with others how much Jesus loves them. She fought mightily on her knees in prayer. And now she rejoices greatly at the feet of her Savior.

Along with her parents, Mary is preceded in death by her brother Carroll Waters of Nichols, GA and her sister Margaret Boatright of Alma, GA.

She is survived by her husband Ray Lightsey of Jesup; sisters Gwenell(Gene) of Jesup, Debra(Neil) Medders of Alma, Betty(Billy) Wilson of Savanah, Billy(Diane) Waters of Eatonton, GA; sons Greg(Chrissy) Lightsey of Buford, GA and Ken(Georgine) Lightsey of Ball Ground, GA; grandchildren BrookLee & Caleb Lightsey of Buford, GA, Jake(Julia) Lightsey of Atlanta, GA, Joey and Ava Lightsey of Ball Ground, GA: great-grandchild Harper Rose of Atlanta, GA.

Visitation will take place Sunday, August 2, 2026 from 6-8pm at Howard Jones in Jesup.

Funeral service will be held Monday, August 3, 2026 at 11am at Faith Chapel in Jesup with Reverend James Carter officiating.

Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Jake, Joey, Caleb and Kelly Lightsey, Luke Carter and Mark Elliott.  Honorary pallbearers will be Jeff and Noah Lightsey, Mark and Mike Boatright, Christopher and Jonathan Medders, Derek and Randy Waters and Chandler Dixon.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Hospice of South Georgia, 1625 Sunset Blvd, Jesup, GA 31545