Mary Madelyn Blakely

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Mary Madelyn Blakely, born on December 27, 1936, left this world on September 14, 2024, but the warmth of her presence will forever echo in the hearts of who were fortunate to know her. A devoted mother, cherished friend, and compassionate soul, Mary exemplified a life lived with grace, humor, and unwavering love.

Mary's journey began in a family of twelve, where she learned the values of hard work and kindness. Perhaps it was in those bustling days as one of many siblings that she developed her sociable nature and her genuine ability to connect with others. Her vibrant spirit and good sense of humor brought joy to not just her family, but to everyone she met along her pathway.

Before embracing motherhood fully, Mary found fulfillment in her career, initially working for the Methodist Printing House. However, it was in the cherished moments with her children and her involvement in their lives that she truly thrived. Although she later returned to work, it was her roles as a switchboard operator at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, alongside her two best friends Gaynell Cart and Lottie Crouch, that she fondly remembered. The laughter and camaraderie they shared were a highlight of her professional life. Additionally, her time in the Station B Mailroom at Vanderbilt brought her fulfillment and further memories that she would cherish.

Traveling was another passion of Mary’s; she loved exploring new places and creating lasting memories with her family. Her love for travel was matched only by her generous spirit, as she always found ways to care for children, the elderly, or those in need. Mary was selfless, embodying a life dedicated to serving others, a reflection of her deep-rooted faith and love for the Lord.

Though she has joined her beloved husband in eternal rest, her legacy of kindness, love, and faith remains firmly planted in the hearts of her children and the community she served. Mary’s gentle spirit, laughter, and selfless nature will be deeply missed but never forgotten. She touched so many lives, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven with love and light.

Visitation: will be on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 1:00 PM – until time of services.

Funeral Service: will begin at 4:00 PM on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from the Chapel of Spann Funeral Home with Mickey Blakely officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association 

Survived by: 

Sons:

 Michael “Mickey” Blakely (Lisa) of Murfreesboro, TN

 Timothy Blakely (Vickie) of Dickson, TN

 Johnathan Blakely of Charlotte, TN

Brothers:

 Tony Sadler (Melanie) of Pegram, TN

 Gary Sadley (Veronica) of Arizona

Sisters:

 Medearis Adams (Jim) of Nashville, TN

 Judy Donnelly (Tommy) of Georgia

10 Grandchildren

16 Great Grandchildren

As well as many nieces and nephews

Special thanks to the caring staff at Life Care Center of Centerville, as well as the staff with Accent Care Hospice.

Preceded in death by: 

Husband of 67 years: Rex Blakely

Parents: Charles and Roselee (Morrow) Sadler

Daughters: Dawn Earps, and Jennifer Booth

Daughter-In-Law: Mary Blakely

Grandchild: Elizabeth Blakely

Great Grandchild: Layne Earps

Brothers: Malcolm, Charlie, Grant, Gene, Jimmy Sadler

Sisters: Margaret Cooper, and Nita Hobson

Arrangements by Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services (615) 446-1123