Mary Frances Martin, age 84, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025. She was born on January 4, 1941, to the late Marvin Strickland and Mary Wise Strickland.

Mary was a special lady whose life was marked by kindness, tenderness, and quiet strength. She consistently put the needs of others ahead of her own and had a gentle way of making those around her feel cared for and valued. Her family was deeply important to her, and her love for them was evident in all she did.

One of Mary's greatest joys was playing bingo. She played whenever she could, and it brought her genuine happiness. Mary had a true passion for the game and was affectionately known as the luckiest bingo player, delighting friends and family alike with her wins and her cheerful spirit. These moments reflected her love for simple joys and shared laughter.

She also enjoyed cheering on her favorite teams, especially Alabama football and the Crimson Tide, as well as watching the Atlanta Braves.

Mary was a longtime member of Reese Baptist Church, where she faithfully worshiped for many years. Her strong faith in Jesus Christ sustained her throughout her life, especially as she courageously faced many health challenges with grace and perseverance.

Mary Frances Martin was preceded in death, in addition to her parents, by her husband, Alton "Bub" Martin; her son, Dwayne Davis; her granddaughter, Renee Davis; and seven siblings, Merlin Simpler, Hilda Aplin, Reba Gillman, Shelby Simmons, Franklin Strickland, Roger Strickland, and Martha White.

She is survived by two children, Scotty Davis and wife Denise of Kinston and Eddie Chance and wife Jennifer of Destin; five grandchildren, Dwayne Davis and wife Tiffany of Navarra, Dawson Davis of Kinston, Hannah Chance, Ethan Chance, and Madelyn Chance all of Destin; six great-grandchildren, Dylan Davis, Taylor Davis, Aubrey Davis, Mishaylyn Goodwin, Elizabeth Chambers, and Sebastian Chambers of Panama City; one sister, Diann Thomas and husband Doug Bell of Geneva; and a number of special nieces and nephews.

Mary Frances Martin will be remembered for her gentle heart, her selfless nature, her joyful love of bingo, and her unwavering faith. Her life was a quiet testimony of love, kindness, and devotion to God and family.

Funeral services for Mary Frances Martin will be 11AM Monday December 15, 2025 at Evans Funeral Home with Joe Farris officiating. Visitation will be 1 hour before services. Interment will be in Reese Cemetery.