Mary Ann Massey

Mary "Muff" Ann Massey, 73, was born June 16, 1947 to Paul E. Bishop, Sr. and Joyce Richardson in Fort Smith, AR. She attended Howard Elementary School and later Lincoln High.

She is preceded in death by her parents and sisters: June E. Graham and Patrice Bishop. Mary was seen as an adventurous person with a desire to know new things. She had a unique admiration for the people she loved and the various activities she enjoyed doing. She loved to represent the family through genealogy. She was somewhat a historian. She loved to travel and observe nature, especially butterflies. Mary's tasks were not limited but to name a few: she worked as a Dental Assistant, enjoyed cooking, retired from the Fort Smith Public Schools as cook for Northside Senior High. Prior employment included being the Dietary Aide Supervisor at McManor Nursing Home in Lawton, OK.She was very active in her church. She was oftentimes the Kitchen Cook during numerous functions at First Baptist and famous for the tasty Tea! She worked for the Lord as an Usher, member of Dorcas Circle, and Missionary Society. Her dedication fulfilled the mission code: She gave of her talent and time to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Funeral will be Friday, April 8th, 11:00 a.m. at First Missionary Baptist Church with burial at Fort Smith National Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Demondre, Vincent, Anthony, and Brian Bishop, Antonio Campbell, Darren Massey, James Cherry, and Kenneth Mumphrey.

Viewing will be Thursday, April 7th, 11:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the funeral home and 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at the church where the family will receive visitors and friends.

She is survived by her husband Jim; a son, Drake Bishop of Garland, TX; stepchildren: Erika May and Darren Massey of Fort Smith and Stephanie Ellis of Russellville, AR; her beloved grandchildren: Christopher Bishop of San Diego, CA, Jasmine Bishop of Little Rock, AR, and Kayla Bishop of Garland, TX; five brothers: Paul (Freda) Bishop, Tommy (Gail) Bishop, Steven (Sheila) Bishop, Milton and Alan Bishop all of Fort Smith; three sisters: Frances Campbell, Sheila (John Wayne) McGee of Fort Smith, and Cristina (Eunice) Johnson of Mineral Springs, AR; her best friend, Pearlie Elam; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.