Mary Margaret Hanks Byford, age 93, died Tuesday, February 12, 2013 in Huntsville, Alabama.
Born in Cherokee, Oklahoma, Mary was raised and lived the majority of her life in White County, Illinois. Happily married to John T. Byford for 58 years, the Byfords were actively involved in Baptist Churches for over half a century. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she moved to Huntsville, AL in 1997. An avid gardener, extraordinary cook, and talented artisan, Mary enjoyed piecing quilts, and in her eighties she crocheted dozens of baby blankets for church charities. She was happiest spending time with her family and in nature.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband, John T. Byford of Calvin; son, Michael Byford; parents, Frank and Jessie Hanks; sisters, Faye Wells of Crossville and Frieda Hanks; and son in law, William Paul Wake originally from Crossville.
Mrs. Byford is survived by her daughter, Sandra Wake Kays of Huntsville; sister, Vivian Rizzo (Richard) of Vero Beach, FL; brother Frank Hanks, Jr. of Watervliet, Michigan; grandchildren, Matt Wake of Huntsville, AL, Amanda Buck of Nashville, TN, and Nathan Wake of Huntsville, AL; son in law, Ray Kays, originally from Crossville; grandson in law Jason Buck of Nashville, TN; and extended family.
Memorial services will be held at Cook Funeral Chapel in Grayville, Ill. On Saturday February 16th at 10 AM. For more information, please visit www.cookfuneralchapel.com.
