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Mary Ann Nowell, 84, of Jonesboro, Georgia passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026. She was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee. In addition to her parents, Clyde McDearis and Bonnie Stewart McDearis, she is preceded in death by her
brothers, Bill McDearis and Johnny McDearis, and daughter-in- law, Wendy Nowell (Mark).
Mary Ann is survived by her husband, Tommy Nowell Sr., and her sons, Tommy (Connie) Nowell Jr. and Mark (Janet) Nowell; her grandchildren, Jacob (Beverly) Nowell, Sallie Nowell, Dylan (Megan) Nowell, Hunter (Torrie) Nowell, and Lexi Nowell. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Mason Nowell, Liam Nowell, Layla Nowell, and River Nowell, in addition to her sister, Donnie McGaughey (Bill), and several nieces, and nephews.
Mary Ann and Tommy met at Central High School Chattanooga. On August 29, 1959, they were married and then enjoyed 67 happy years together. They lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee before moving to Morrow, Georgia and then settling in Jonesboro.
Mary Ann was not just a housewife, but a homemaker. She shaped a Godly home that was a foretaste of Heaven; a home that would put anything in Southern Living Magazine to shame. Mary Ann attended Eagles Landing First Baptist Church since the very beginning of the church’s establishment in 1989. She was active in the women’s ministry and was a prayer warrior through and through. She loved the Lord wholeheartedly.
Mary Ann had many hobbies. She was athletic, playing multiple sports: tennis, softball, snow skiing and running. She loved to decorate, shop, and had an eye for fashion and what looked good. But her favorite activity was doing things for her grandchildren, family, and friends. Most of her life was spent taking care of others.
She will be remembered as a great wife, the best mother and grandmother, and a great friend to many. Most importantly, she will be remembered for her love: her love for the Lord and all those around her.
Please join us in a celebration of Mary Ann’s life on April 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM in The Chapel at Eagles Landing Baptist Church: 2400 Highway 42 North, McDonough, GA 30253 (located by the gym). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary Ann’s name to your favorite Christian charity.
Sally May says
Loved Mary Ann ! Yes, she was a shopper! She would go shopping and stop by Lake Harbin showing us what she bought, and of course, we would send her back to shop for us too ! Jean Beck and Sally May) She was a fun loving lady ! We know where she is! She lived her testimony!
Elizabeth Burge says
We had the privilege of going to church with Tommy and Mary Ann for many years at Harvest Baptist Church. They both lived their lives Jesus honoring. They were very involved serving the Lord and also raised some wonderful kids. Ted and I looked up to them as wonderful role models. Mary Ann will be missed.
Molly House Langley says
My heart goes out to the Nowell family.
I grew up next door to them and our paths have crossed several times since then.
Hugs & prayers
Molly House Langley
Linda Castellaw says
Mary Ann lit up the room as soon as she entered. Always smiling laughing and beautiful inside and out. She was a precious friend and though we will miss her, she is before the “Light” that shone through her daily.
LaWanda Oswalt says
I remember Mary Ann and Tommy from Lake City Baptist. She was beautiful inside and out. She was such a fine Christian Lady and was loved by many. She and Tommy were so much fun to be around. Prayers going up for Tommy and the family. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. We know she is with our Lord now because of her love for Him. She was truly a Child of God!!
Gale Vaughan Ginn says
We went to church with Mary Ann and Tommy years ago at Lake City Baptist. I was in the same Ladies Sunday School class with Mary Ann. She was a beautiful and wonderful person. I enjoyed knowing her and her family. My sympathy and prayers go to the family.
Becki Duren says
What a precious sister in the Lord Jesus! There are some people you wish you had stayed in touch with and Mary Ann is definitely one for me. Her beautiful smile exudes Jesus. How blessed I am to have been in church with her and her family at Lake City and Mt. Zion.
“The Lord bless you and keep you and give you His peace” Tommy and family. Love and prayers.
Pat Rager says
My wonderful friend. First person I met when we moved South, became best and forever friends. Prayers to this special family, God Bless.