Mary Katherine Steele Little went to her heavenly home, on December 18, 2016, to be reunited with her husband of 50 years; John Lawrence Little.

Mary was born in Atlanta, Georgia on February 13, 1922, to William Henry and Luna Lilly Ethel Voyles Steele. She was the third child of five born during the depression era and often told stories of her travels, historical and sporting events and growing up with her siblings: William Steele, Edna Weems, Nell Camp and her only surviving brother Walter Steel.

Mary and John were married in Atlanta, Georgia on October 6, 1945, then moving to Rutherfordton, North Carolina, where their two children William Lawrence and Rebecca Alice were born.

From this small union of a family, the "Little" family tree grew by branches and memories. Having six grandchildren: Kimberly (Duane), Marjorie, Michael (Brynn), Jennifer (Mitch), Billy (Amanda), Elliot (Jessica) and twelve great grandchildren: Isabella and Gabriella; Katharine and Evan; Jacob and Emma; Madison, Morgan, Kellan, and Kalli; Scarlett and Kendall, all were a special blessing.

Mary, loved her many nieces and nephews; Mary, Beverly, Jerry, Becky, Buddy, Linda, Renee, Ann, Diane, Claudia, Graham and Hawk all who treasured her many stories and family history.

Mary was an avid sports fan, especially the Atlanta Braves and quilting was her passion and her means of artistic expression as well as socializing with friends Janet, Joyce, Dottie and Peg.

Mary's strength came from her belief in Jesus Christ as her savior and knowing that she will be reunited with her family and friends in our heavenly home.

The family will receive guests at a visitation Wednesday, 5 to 7 pm, December 21, 2016 at Arlington Park Funeral Home, 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211.

A Celebration of Service will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, December 22, 2016 at Grace Lutheran Church, 12200 McCormick Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225. Interment will be in Arlington Park Cemetery, 6920 Lone Star Road Jacksonville, FL 32211.