Mary Marie Pickett Williams, born June 1, 1936, passed away May 12, 2026, after a long and full life.

She was born to Martin O'Neal Pickett and Bernice Irene Hunter Pickett. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Robert Martin Pickett.

Marie married Joe Williams on December 23, 1956, and they shared many years together raising their family and building a life in North Carolina, living in Lyman, Goldsboro, Kinston, Jefferson, and moving to Cary in 1978. They enjoyed traveling, especially road trips with the Tyndall family of Wilmington. Over the years, Marie visited all 50 states, as well as Canada and Mexico, creating many memories along the way.

She is survived by her husband, Joe Williams; her daughters, Debbie Ash of Clayton, North Carolina, and Dianne Wilburn and husband Scott Wilburn of New Mexico.

She was grandmother to Joseph Bower of Clayton, North Carolina; Grey Wilburn of Philadelphia; Hunter Ash of Ohio; Richard Ash of Raleigh; and Colin Wilburn and wife, Meg, of Paris.

As a child, Marie attended Bethel Presbyterian Church in Lyman, North Carolina, where she earned perfect attendance pins for Sunday School for 13 consecutive years, something she remained proud of throughout her life.

Marie graduated from Hardbarger Business College and later earned an associate degree from Wilkes Community College. She began working for the United States Postal Service in 1969 and spent many years there, serving as Postmaster in Jefferson, West Jefferson, and Apex, and as Acting Postmaster in Jonesville, Smithfield, and Goldsboro.

She took pride in her home and yard, especially her azaleas, and her yard in MacGregor Downs was recognized many times as Yard of the Month. She enjoyed keeping a beautiful home and creating a place that reflected her care and attention.

Marie will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her strong work ethic, and the life she built over many years.

All service are private.

Community Funeral Home of Beulaville is honored to serve the Williams family.