Dr. Mary Stone Lange

Dr. Mary Stone Lange went to be with the Lord Tuesday, December 26, 2023.  With her compassionate spirit and dedication to healthcare, she touched the lives of many throughout her remarkable journey.
Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2023, at Ray Funeral Home in Cleveland, MS.  Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m.

Born on February 8, 1943, in Vaiden, Mississippi, Mary grew up in Goodman and graduated from Goodman High School. She married Jim Stone, and had three children.  She was a hair dresser for many years before she began to pursue her nursing degree.  She went to Delta State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in science. Her thirst for knowledge and passion for nursing led her to further her education at the University of Southern Mississippi, where she obtained her master’s degree and certified as Nurse Practitioner. Continuing her academic path, Mary further distinguished herself by earning her Doctorate degree in nursing.

Mary's career was an incredible testament to both her skill and her commitment to caring for others. She commenced her medical journey as a nurse at Delta Regional Medical Center in Greenville before transitioning to academia as a nursing instructor at Delta State University nursing school. Her knowledge and expertise helped shape the next generation of nurses.

Later on, fate brought Mary to Memphis, Tennessee, where she began working at St Francis Hospital. It was there that she met with her late husband Frederick Lange.

While Mary's professional accomplishments were undeniably admirable, it was in her role as a mother, grandmother, sister, and friend where her true essence shone brightest. She cherished these relationships above all else and was deeply loved by those fortunate enough to share in her life.

Beyond her professional achievements and dedicated roles within her family, Mary had a passion for gardening. Finding solace amongst the flowers and plants, she cultivated a beautiful oasis that brought joy to all who visited her home. Mary's green thumb also earned recognition as she was published in the Commercial Appeal—her knowledge as a master gardener with the day lily society. She loved when community members and other gardeners would come by to see her many varieties of day lilies as well as her yard. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, William Scott and Gladys Scott; former husband, Jim Stone, husband, Frederick Lange; son, Brad Stone; sisters, Dixie Woods and Sherry Scott; brother, William “Brother” Scott. 

Mary is survived by her daughter, Jenifer Stone Jenkins of Cleveland, MS; son, Alan Stone of Murfreesboro, TN; granddaughters, Brittany Self (Matt). Faith and Natalie Jenkins; great grandchildren, Taylor, Rollie, Gatlin, Matthew Ryan, and Gage; sisters, Shirley Rogers, Jerrie Harkins, and brother-in-law Ricky Stone (Sharon) of Cleveland.

Mary's legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the memories she left behind. She has demonstrated to us all the importance of compassion, education, and cherishing our loved ones. As we mourn her loss, let us also take solace in celebrating a life well-lived—a life filled with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on those around her.

Special thank you to Indywood and especially Jeanette with Sunflower Hospice for the love and care that you gave Mary.  

May her soul rest in eternal peace.