Mary Sue (Pruitt) Blackwell

Greensboro - Mary Sue Blackwell, 63, passed away Thursday, January 9, 2025 at Beacon Place. 

Like the movie title says, there’s something about Mary.

Born on May 18, 1961, in Greensboro, NC, Mary Sue Pruitt Blackwell was a true and lifelong friend to so many.  Mary peacefully left us on January 9, 2025, but her spirit will forever live on in those who loved her.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, GT Pruitt Jr., her brother, GT Pruitt III, her father and mother-in-law, Edward and Marjorie Blackwell, her brother-in-law, Bucky Blackwell, nieces Amanda Pruitt and Sara Angel, and her lifelong best friend, Tonya Faye Johnson.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Steven Blackwell; her beloved daughters, Karli Sanchez (Martin) and Shelby Holt (Barry); her precious grandchildren, Eva Sanchez, Martin Sanchez, and Blakely Holt; her loving mother, Jewelene Pruitt; and her siblings, Patricia Peacock, Larry Pruitt, Bonnie Hicks (Roger), and Charles Pruitt (Kimberly).  She will deeply missed by her many nieces and nephews.

Mary graduated from Ragsdale High School, attended Leon’s Beauty School, and studied Early Childhood Development at GTCC.

Over the years, Mary worked at the City of Greensboro, Guilford County School Systems, dabbled in property management, and kept a watchful eye in security at Procter & Gamble. However, she was most proud of her work as a missionary and working with children truly brought her joy.

Mary Sue had a unique gift: making everyone around her feel important and seen. She was the definition of unconditional love and forgiveness.  She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, and mother, but it was her role as “Grandma” that truly lit up her world. The love she gave to her grandchildren was immeasurable, and they were the apples of her eye. There wasn’t a day that went by that Mary wasn’t telling a story about her grandkids and grinning ear-to-ear.

Her legendary stories kept us all in stitches. She could find humor in just about anything, turning even the most mundane situations into hilarious, heartwarming memories.

Even in her toughest moments, Mary had a heart that never quit. Her life was a testament to resilience, kindness, and unwavering faith. We are all better for having known her. And though we may be worlds apart, we will always have a friend in Mary.

The Celebration of Life is scheduled to take place at Christ Wesleyan Church, 2400 S Holden Rd, Greensboro, NC on January 25, 2025.  Friends & family will be received from 12 PM to 12:45 PM, followed by the funeral service at 1 PM, led by Pastor David Bunn.  Reception to follow in the fellowship hall.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the family during this difficult time by donating to: https://gofund.me/adc72fee

This will help cover unexpected medical expenses.  

The Blackwell family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Beacon Place for their exceptional care provided to Mary in her final days.  

When you think of Mary, think of her big blue eyes, her radiant smile, and her infectious laugh. Mary didn’t just light up a room, she made it shine.

Serenity Funeral Home & Cremations "Home of Lasting Memories."

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