Mary Francis Mazie, age 85 of Tarboro, passed away peacefully on Sunday,  January 28, 2024 in her home with family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde Ed Bagwell and Matilda Bagwell;  husband, James Johnston;  husband, Ed Smith and husband Walter Mazie.

She is survived by her daughter, Melissa J. Hyman (Garry) of Tarboro, NC.  James Gregory Johnston (Kathy) of Hickory, NC.

Surviving Grandchildren:  Brittany Wingler (Daniel) of Red Oak, NC and Mary Sloane;  Kristen Patteson (Trenton) of Wallburg, NC and Julien and Lawson;  Adam Hyman (Jackie) of Greenville, NC and Eleanor. Seth Johnston (Annie) of Falls Church, VA and Leo; Kenan Johnston (Sara) of Pittsboro, NC and Silas and Parker;  Kelsey Bassett (Tyler) of Martinsville, VA and Hayes and Jack.

Mary is also survived by brothers Ed Bagwell of Washington, NC  and John Bagwell (Susan) of Phoenix, AZ;  longtime devoted friends Carolyn Fugate of Frankfort, KY and Ed Scarborough of Rehoboth Beach, DE.

Mary was an educator who served forty + years enriching the lives of children and adults whom she taught or led.  Her heart was big and she loved unconditionally. She loved to travel and was one to not keep roots in one place for long periods of time. She settled in Tarboro to be close to family when her health declined. A special thanks to Dr. Mark Petruzziello for providing care in her home when needed; Gentiva Hospice for their caring staff when we approached the end of life; her loving caregiver companion Christine Cochran and Garry Hyman, her son-in-law, for sacrificing through this journey to meet her wants and needs.