Visitation
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Mary Chapman Waters, beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away at home on October 18, 2026, surrounded by her family. Mary was born on October 20, 1933, to Oscar and Ila Chapman.
Mary is survived by her only daughter, Beth Waters Ross, and her dedicated son-in-law, Keith; her grandson, Kade Ross, and his wife, Mary Margaret; her cherished great-grandchildren, Hayes and Louise Ross; and her twin sister, Martha Mull.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Hardy Jerome Waters, her parents, and by her sisters Nell Saunders and Pearl Piercy.
Mary and Hardy were married when she was 16, and they spent almost 75 years together. They had a wonderful family with their daughter, Beth, and they stood by each other in sickness and in health. Mary is undoubtedly overjoyed to be reunited with Hardy in Heaven.
A dedicated member of Missionary Ridge Baptist Church, Mary began each morning with her devotions. She worked at Skyland Textile and Shadowline, then as a teacher's assistant in the Burke County Public Schools, where she was devoted to the children in her care. Mary completed her working years at Pilot Mountain Cafe where she enjoyed taking care of customers. Mary was a hard worker, compassionate and fair, with a strong love for her family and her sisters.
The graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Darren Browning officiating. The family will greet friends following the service.
Memorial contributions can be made to Amorem Hospice, honoring Mary's legacy of care and compassion.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Leave a tribute for Mary Chapman Waters.
Beth, I just saw this obituary on the passing of your mother. My sympathy! No one could have been a better daughter and caregiver. I wish you and the family much comfort in knowing that the life that she lived was full of God's grace. She truly did help me in improving the dental health (and you too) of so many students! Her memory is a blessing. Nancy Ferguson Brown, former PH Dental Hygienist
My condolences to Beth, Keith, Kade and family. Mary was a very special woman. She will be greatly missed.
I will remember you forever even though I was in your life's glow a short time. Bless this family.
I am so sorry for your loss. She was a beautiful soul
I really enjoyed working with Mary at Salem Elementary School. She had a way of making everyone's day brighter!! I know she is enjoying Heaven right now. 🌈
Mary was always a joy to all the customers at Pilot Mountain Cafe, and she was Tom’s favorite. ❤️
Beth, you/family are in my thoughts and prayers! Your mom was a very beautiful sweet lady and was always so good to me! So blessed you are to have had a wonderful mother! I know you will miss her tremendously but she is with your dad now in heaven! God bless you and Keith and your son and his family! Love/Prayers, Sharon Swink Cain
