Mary Jeanette Wicker was born in Bogalusa, to the union of Moses and Elizabeth McCarthy Wicker on July 23, 1946, and had two siblings. She fell asleep in death Sunday, October 4, 2015.

She attended Central Memorial High School and graduated in 1964. After receiving a bachelor of science degree in home economics from Grambling State University, she moved to Chicago, Ill., and worked in the dietary/nutrition field. Later she worked in social services for the state of Illinois, from which she retired.

In Chicago, Mary began to study the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses and was baptized July 1, 1974, in symbol of her dedication to Jehovah God. She enjoyed telling others about God’s Kingdom whether from her wheelchair or scooter because of health issues.

As her health improved, she shared regularly in telephone witnessing and letter writing. Her love of cooking led to her entertaining many friends and family in her home for delicious meals, including barbeque for the children in the congregation.   She also loved to bake cakes and pies and would have you come to pick them up.

Later, when her son Kenny moved to Louisiana, she had him make deliveries. As an animal lover — dogs especially — she bought dog food and dog biscuits for pets of her friends although she did not own one.

She is survived by her only son, Kenneth; her sister, Nina W. Douglas; her aunt, Allean McCarthy McDonald; and beloved cousin, Lulla Jo Keller; many other relatives and loving friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Mose Wicker; and maternal grandparents, Payton and Nina McCarthy.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1017 City Limits Road in Bogalusa. Cook Richmond is handling the funeral arrangements.