Mary Louise Persons, 57, of Burgaw and formerly of Pine Hill, NY passed gently from her earthly life on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at home surrounded with love by her family.

She was born November 8, 1957 in Schenectady, NY, one of seven children born to Sylvia Peters Persons and the late Ralph H. Persons, Jr.

In addition to her mother, Mary is survived by her husband, Jacob H. Arthur; step-sons, Solomon D. Arthur (Chevonne) and Nathaniel M. Arthur; grandchildren, Keenan, Rowan, and Elena Arthur; sisters, Margaret Dee (John), Michele Wooton (John) and Marcia Mariani (Nicholas); brothers, Michael Persons, Mark Persons (Cynthia) and Matthew Persons (Jacqueline); many nieces, nephews and friends.

Mary worked for 30 years with the NY State D.E.C. as a nursery (childcare) director. After moving to Burgaw, NC many will remember Mary's smiling face at Rooks Lawn and Garden.
She was a devoted member of Hopewell Presbyterian Church.

Mary loved with all of her heart and her radiant smile brightened the lives of everyone she knew. Her joy in life first was family, then the ocean/beach, all flora and fauna, and caring for children. She always had a hand stretched out to help others. Mary leaves a legacy of love, hope, laughter and steadfast faith in God.

Memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, February 1, 2015 at Hopewell Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Ralph Evans officiating. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall following the service.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Lower Cape Fear Hospice foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw, NC.

Memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, February 1, 2015 at Hopewell Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Ralph Evans officiating. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall following the service.