Mary Helen Weatherford Pruett, 86, of Lawndale moved to her home in Heaven Saturday morning, October 1, 2022 at home surrounded by her children. Born in Cleveland County on March 29, 1936, she was preceded in death by her parents James "Jim" Matthew Weatherford and Viola Atkinson Weatherford as well as all of her siblings. Mary was the youngest of 12 children including six brothers, Hallie, Leslie, Wilbert, Glease, Charles, and Buddy Weatherford along with five sisters, Gladys Mode, Margaret Peeler, Lois Swink, Frances Perry and infant
Molly. She also lived to see the passing of all her special brother and sister in-laws.

She is survived by her loving husband Billy A Pruett with whom she enjoyed 67 years of marriage. They were blessed with a son Rev. Doug Pruett (Donna) of Casar and two daughters, Lisa Larsen (Kevin), along with Jan Crow (Marion), of Polkville. The eight grandchildren who she affectionally called her "little darlings" are Sally Hamrick (John), Adam Larsen (Kylie), Lindsay Bralley (Ryan), Daniel Pruett, Maggie Tate (Steven), Megan Carpenter (Josh), Leah Crow and Spencer Crow. From those "grands" came 15 great-grandchildren, Brett, Will, Samantha, Holly, Mason, Case, Lucy, Edison, Ryland, Evans, Kinley, Logan, Haven, August, and Norah. She also adored her many nieces and nephews, some of whom were close to her in age and saw her as an older sister, while others looked to her as another mother.

Mary and Bill started their family in Charlotte where they lived and worked for 20 years before moving back home to Upper Cleveland County. She retired from Cleveland County Schools, and worked in many capacities at both Burns Middle and Burns High schools. She was a long-time member of Polkville Baptist Church.

Mary was a devoted friend, a natural encourager, a sensitive listener and was fervent in prayer. Her christian witness was best expressed through her service to others. She loved others well. Her laughter was contagious. She tackled life with unending energy, secure faith and unwavering strength, seasoned with a joyous sense of humor that helped her keep a healthy and balanced perspective for any challenge. She often recited "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Philippians 4:13. With the genuine way she showed affection and the practical grace she extended to everyone, her wisdom and influence will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were abundantly blessed to have loved and been loved by her.

The family would like to thank two special caregivers Starr Sharond and Sherri Conner.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 4, from 1:00-2:00 PM at Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home in Fallston, NC.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM in the Stamey-Tysinger Chapel with Dr. Rick Hamrick officiating. The burial will follow the service in Polkville Baptist Church Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to Hospice Cleveland County 951 Wendover Height Dr. Shelby NC 28150-3565

A guest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey-Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, NC.