Mary E. Layson (Mel) Pease

Mary E. Layson (Mel) Pease, age 97, passed away on Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at Addington Place, Brunswick, Georgia.

A native of Blytheville, Arkansas, Mel was the daughter of the late Henry Clifton and Neicie McAlister Layson. She was predeceased in 2001 by both her husband, Willard Hendrix (Bill) Pease and her brother, Bryce Layson. She is survived by her son, Clifton Hendrix Pease and wife, Debbie of St. Simons Island; grandson, William Hendrix Pease of Charlotte, NC; sister, Betty Layson Smith of St. Simons Island, and several nieces and nephews.

Mel was born on June 25, 1920 in Blytheville where she grew up and was active in church and community affairs. She graduated from Cottey College and for 75 years was a member of P.E.O. Sisterhood, a philanthropic and educational organization.

In 1942 Mel married Willard Hendrix (Bill) Pease. They live in Atlanta from 1953 to 1975 and were members of Trinity Presbyterian Church where Mel served as director or the original Senior Care Group, taught Sunday school, and sang in the choir. In December 1975, Mel and Bill moved to St. Simons and became members of St. Simons Presbyterian Church. Mel served on the Council of Presbyterian Women for many years, and in 1995 she was presented the Honorary Life Membership award. She was also an active member of the Golden Isles Duplicate Bridge Club.

A memorial service honoring Mel will be held at St. Simons Presbyterian Church on July 21, 2017 at 10:00 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Simons Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements are entrusted with Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home.