Mary Jean Deakle

Mary Jean Deakle, 85, of Gautier, passed away peacefully, on June 2nd, 2023.

Mary Jean was born January 27th, 1938 to Howard and Lucy Hancock in Boonville, MS.  She graduated from Booneville High School in 1956 and went on to study at Northeast Junior College and earned her elementary education degree from Delta State University, later earning a Master of Education degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.   She was a beloved elementary teacher and principal for 35+ years in Pascagoula and Gautier MS, retiring in 1993. She was a devoted Sunday school teacher at the First Baptist Church of Gautier and was active with the prison ministry. 

In 1957, she met the love of her life, Jim Deakle, and they wed June 5, 1959, going on to have two children, Mark and Jeff.

Mary was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother she was kind and loving to everyone.  She enjoyed cooking, gardening, and caring for her family.

Mary was preceded by her mother Lucy Hunt. She is survived by her husband, Jim Deakle; children, Mark (Paula) Deakle & Jeff  (Judene) Deakle, as well as grandchildren, Kaleb, Renny, Mason, Robert (Suzzette), Michelle (Ryan) and Austin.  Great grandchildren, Harper, Noah, Ariah, Logan and Avery. Sister and brother-in-law Ann and Mickey Hawkins along with many family members and friends.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at First Baptist Church of Gautier from 12 noon- 2:00pm. Funeral Service will begin at 2:00pm with Rev. David Aultman officiating. Interment will conclude at Pinecrest Cemetery.  Serving as pallbearers are Kaleb Deakle, Renny Deakle, Mason Deakle, Austin Deakle, Louis Pennell, Ryan Duggan,. Honorary Pallbearers, Walter Green and Ronnie Johns. Condolences may be expressed online at www.obryantokeefe.com.

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