Dr. Mary B. Avery, 79, passed January 29, 2026 in Phenix City, AL.
Funeral Service will be held 11:00 a.m. EST, Monday, February 9, 2026 in the C.T. Chapel of Taylor Funeral Home with Pastor Otto Thomas, officiating. Interment will follow at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. Public Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST, Saturday, February 7, 2026, during which time Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will conduct an Omega Omega Service at 2:00 p.m. EST.
Dr. Avery, beloved mother, wife, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, departed this life, on January 29, 2026, in Phenix City, AL.
Born on October 13, 1946, in Montgomery, AL, to Mary Frances Glass and Golden Harris. Mary was preceded in death by two sisters, Janice Brooks and Georgia Alexander; and one brother, Charlie Reese.
Education was one of Mary’s greatest callings, and she pursued it with extraordinary dedication. A proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in 1966, she went on to build and exceptional academic foundation. After relocating to New York, Mary earned both her Bachelor of Education in 1973 and Master of Education in 1976 from Herbert H. Lehman College in the Bronx. Her commitment to lifelong learning culminated in the achievement of her Doctorate in Education from Argosy University in Sarasota, Florida - a milestone that reflected her passion for scholarship, leadership, and service.
Mary devoted more than thirty years to the field of education, distinguishing, herself as a “teacher’s teacher.” She began her career in the classroom and rose through the ranks to become a respected school principal. Whether teaching or leading, Mary approached every role with a steadfast mission: to uplift children and transform their futures.
In 1979, while serving with the Department of Defense Overseas Schools in Germany, Mary met the man who would become her life partner, William T. Avery. Their meeting sparked a love story that would span more than 46 years. Together, they built a marriage grounded in devotion, adventure, and mutual respect traveling the world, raising a family, and supporting one another through every chapter of life. Their union stands as a testament to enduring love and partnership.
Mary leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, William T. Avery, 2 loving sons, Christopher Burke of Raleigh, NC and Michael P. Murray (Venus) of Brooklyn, NY; 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Sandra Thomas (Otto) and Teresa Wilkerson; and 2 brothers, Arthur Reese and Michael Reese, all of Montgomery, AL.
Send flowers to the service of Dr. Mary B. Avery
Deirdre Poe-Sanders planted 5 trees in memory of Dr. Mary B. Avery . - February 01, 2026
I am saddened by the loss of my friend, Mary. We worked together in the Muscogee County School District and the Muscogee Retired Educators Association. She will be dearly missed. To the Avery Family, May God's promises of comfort and love strengthen you and bring peace to your heart.
With heartfelt sympathy, Margaret L. Ingersoll
Mary Burke was a truly special person, someone whose kindness and generosity left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her. I had the privilege of meeting Mary at Labor Sherman Daycare Center, and from the very beginning, her beautiful spirit and good heart shone through. She had a natural way of making people feel seen, valued, and cared for, and her compassion for others—especially children—was unmistakable. Mary and I connected easily, united by a shared passion for helping our community. Together, we worked on a fundraiser with the goal of giving children from the inner city an opportunity they might never otherwise have had: a trip to Disney World. That experience was nothing short of magical. Watching the joy, excitement, and wonder on those children's faces was unforgettable, and it was a direct reflection of Mary's loving heart and dedication to making a difference. The time we spent working together was filled with purpose, laughter, and genuine connection. Mary was not only wonderful to work alongside, but she was also a beautiful soul whose kindness rippled outward and touched so many lives. She will always be remembered for her warmth, her generosity, and the love she so freely gave to others.
Gerrie
I met Dr. Avery while working at Forrest Road Elementary. Mary always was willing to share her expertise with working with children and their parents. She was a wealth of knowledge. My heartfelt condolences extended to her dear family.
In times of sorrow when words of comfort are needed most it seems they are most difficult to say. May you find comfort in knowing that warm thoughts and sympathy are with you.
The J W Ligon Class Of 1967 Sending our condolences to you.Praying for you and the family.
Sending condolences to you and your family on the loss of wife.
my condolences to her family and friends, I have known her for a few years working on the panel review team for foster care, I looked for her cheerful greeting each month, and was shocked to hear of her passing, I will miss her smiling face.
Farewell my sweet & dear friend. It's said We have a born date: October 13, 1946 We have a death date: January 29, 2026 But it's that dash (-) in between that matters the most. All my heart & soul can say is Mary job well done. You've fulfilled your purpose. Love ya, Novie
My deep deep condolences to William (Sgt Major Avery as I know him) and to all the family.
Sincere condolences and sympathy are being extended to the entire family. I pray that as you lean on our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, you will find comfort, endurance, and strength as you go through this time of grief and mourning. I pray God's continued blessings and love towards each of you.
William, please know that I am praying for you and your family after the loss of your loved one. May the love you shared remain in your hearts and help guide you through this difficult time. Look to God and know that He is always with you.
On behalf of the Muscogee Retired Educators Association we offer sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Dr. Mary Avery. We are grateful for her service to MREA, her dedication to education, and the lasting impact she made on her students and colleagues. Dr. Avery's legacy will be remembered with admiration and respect. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of loss. With sincere sympathy, Patricia Davis MREA President
Ms. Avery was my 3rd grade teacher over 30 years ago. She used to bring us donuts and she was so sweet. I always used her name as my favorite teacher for passwords. My condolences to the family. May your legacy live on.
Ms. Avery was my first-grade teacher at Forrest Road Elementary School over 28 years ago, and I have never forgotten her. That alone speaks volumes about the incredible teacher and person she was. She made a lasting impact on my life, and I am sure she touched the lives of so many others in the same way. My prayers are with her family and loved ones.
Sending my deepest condolences to this sweet lady . I meet her in Walmart she was one of our customers and over the years we have had got close. I will always remember my sweet lady continue to rest in peace.
My Sister,Thank you all the love & Kindness. The love between her & William were Wonderful ❣️
My prayers and condolences go to the husband and family of Ms Mary Avery! May GOD provide comfort and strength while processing this loss and grief.
We are so sorry for your loss, but may the sweet memories of your loved one bring you comfort and peace.
We send sincere condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Mary Avery. May the Angels watch over you and may the Peace and Tranquility of the Lord's Grace and Glory guide your thoughts and being. Let the memories of Mary and the Love she had for all of you, give you Joy, peace and bring smiles of contentment in knowing that she is with her Heavenly Father. Rosetta Glass-Latimore & Family
William, Sandra and I send sincere condolences to you and your family.
Aunt Mary, my heart is still trying to catch up. You loved big, laughed loud, and had a way of making ordinary moments feel important. Thank you for loving Daxton and Dakota so fiercely and for being their Godmother in every sense of the word. I'll always be grateful for the love, time, and understanding you gave so effortlessly. My heart is especially with Uncle Billy, and with Michael and Chris — your love lives on so beautifully through them. Rest well, My Girl, Auntie Grandma. You will always be with us.
Mia Mae, Daxton, & Dakota
It was such a joy to get to know Mary and work alongside her as part of the Muscogee Retired Educators Association. I am saddened at her passing and will miss her greatly. I'll be praying for comfort for her family and all of us that knew and loved her. Bobbie Getz
To the family of Dr. Mary B. Avery, Dr. Avery will always hold a very special place in my heart. She offered me my very first teaching position straight out of college as a Pre‑K teacher at Muscogee Elementary School. That opportunity changed the course of my life and career.
Even after her retirement, she continued to check on me at the beginning of every school year, always wanting to know how I was doing. That level of care and genuine connection meant more to me than she probably ever knew.
I am deeply grateful for the knowledge she poured into me and for the high expectations she set for me in the field of education. She believed in excellence, professionalism, and purpose—and she modeled those values in everything she did.
Dr. Avery's legacy will live on through the many educators she mentored and the countless students whose lives were impacted because of her. She will truly be missed.
William, Charlotte and I send our sincere condolences.
Mose Dorsey
Our condolences at the loss of Dr. Mary B. Avery. Such a beautiful person who was always most kind. Peace and strength for the family during this time. May God bless and keep you all.
So Sorry for your Loss,Asking God to hold this family in His Arm, Sending Prayer From Mercedes Benz of Columbus Most Lovely Lady of God Will be miss
So Sorry for your Loss,Asking God to hold this family in His Arm, Sending Prayer From Mercedes Benz of Columbus Most Lovely Lady of God Will be miss
So sorry to hear of Dr. Avery's passing. May God be with you and comfort you.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
It was such a delight talking with Dr. Avery just s few days ago. I am praying for healing strength for the family. May God bless the family.
May God comfort you in times like these. You know that Air panel sorrow that heaven cannot be but mean on the everlasting on the pieces he will take you to much love to Evans.
Bill, So sorry to hear. She was such a beautiful light.
-Parick carey
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend, Dr. Mary Avery. "Faithful friends are a sturdy shelter; whoever finds one finds a treasure. Faithful friends are beyond price, no amount can balance their worth. Faithful friends are life-saving medicine; those who fear God will find them." Sirach 6: 14-16. Thank you for being a true and faithful friend.
May the love and support of family and friends bring her family comfort and peace during this very difficult time.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let Your perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
I wish to extend deepest sympathy and prayers to the family and loved ones of Dr. Mary B. Avery. "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty."- Psalm 91:1
Keeping the family in my prayers
Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our beloved sister-in-love, Mary Avery. Your kindness, laughter, and unwavering love touched everyone who knew you. Though you are no longer with us in person, your spirit will forever live in our hearts. Rest peacefully, Mary — you will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Love Mikel, Diane, and Family.
Condolences on the loss of my dear friend Mary. So glad we had a chance to have a long talk just 3 days ago. 🙏🏾
Sending prayers 🙏 in the lost of your loved one.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.