Mary W. Dykes

Mary W. Dykes of Dothan passed away September 18, 2012. She was 81 years old.

Mary, the daughter of the late J.J. and Georgia P. Womble, was born on October 1, 1930, in Madrid, AL. She attended Rehobeth High School and graduated from what is now Troy University in 1952. She was a long-time member of Cloverdale United Methodist Church where she was formerly active as a Sunday School teacher and member of Ladies' Circle and the handbell choir. Mrs. Dykes was formerly employed by Dothan City Schools as a substitute teacher. She also operated a home day care center for over 20 years and was affectionately known as "Mamaw" by the children whose lives she touched.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Dykes was preceded in death by her husband of 59 and a half years, Joe Dykes, who passed away in May, 2012; twin brother, James M. Womble; and sisters, Lelah W. Smith, Valeria W. Smith and Annie W. Chumney.

She is survived by daughters, Mary Jo Dykes (Tom Howard), Lincoln, NE; Patricia D. Tooley, Silver Springs, FL; grandchildren, James C. Watson, Jr. (Lisa), Soddy Daisy, TN; Jessica P. Lechner (Robert), Auburn, NE; Amy L. Tooley, Gainesville, FL; great-grandchildren, Brooke and Lily Watson and Aubrey Lechner; brother, Edmond Womble, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 3 P.M. Sunday, September 23, 2012, at the Ward Wilson Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive visitors from 2 to 3 P.M. Sunday, September 23, 2012, one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Cloverdale United Methodist Church, 102 Rollins Avenue, Dothan, AL 36301.