Ms. Mary Ann Shears

Mary Ann Shears was born to James C. Shears and Bertha Bailey Shears Chapman on October 30, 1942, in Talledega, Alabama. She was the eldest of twelve children: Robert, Bobby, Benny, Jane, Peggy, Juanita, Geraldine, Dorothy, Wayne, James Jr and Ann. As the oldest sibling, she was known for her caring nature, and her brothers and sisters often thought of her as a second mother. She loved the Lord deeply and lived a life rooted in faith. Affectionately known as "Dancing Mary," she loved to dance, sing in church, and praise God with joy. She was a devoted member of Kingdom Building Worship Center of Linden, NC, where she worshipped faithfully until she was called home. At the age of 16, Mary Ann left home and moved to New York in search of new opportunities and a better life. It was there that she met George Hightower, and together they welcomed three beautiful daughters. Later, she met John Watts, and they were blessed with a baby boy. As a mother, Mary Ann was deeply devoted to her children. She was hands-on, protective, and always involved. She kept them active in extracurricular activities because she believed in structure, education, and guiding them on the right path. She was also an exceptional cook who made meals that brought the family together. In addition to her dedication at home, Mary Ann worked as a nurse at The Promenade in Long Beach, NY, where she cared for others with the same compassion she poured into her family. Mary Ann also had a love for gardening and was known to have a "mean green thumb," creating beautiful spaces that reflected her care and creativity. Mary Ann Shears was a devoted grandmother who loved her family deeply. She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her four children: Sharon Hightower, Twala Hightower Hayes (Robert Hayes Jr.), Linda Hightower Simons (Hubert Simons Jr.), and John J. Watts II (Nia Watts). She also leaves behind eleven grandchildren: Shamiqua Anglin, Taaliba Baugh, Idriys J. Bullock, Lacresha Anglin, James C. Morning III, Kehinde Ford (Arielle Ford), Najiyyah Moore (Frankie Moore), Douglas Anglin Jr., Aja Simons, and Jahshai Mekhi Hightower Hayes. Her legacy continues through thirteen great-grandchildren: Tamia Baugh, Patrick Baugh, Amiya Simmons, Kahliyl Baugh, Justin Morning, Jarick Baugh, Christian Anglin, Carter Morning, Skai Thompson, Pharaoh Fahiym Moore, Jaxon Morning, Noah Anglin, and Peace King, along with one great-great-granddaughter, Kiara Pittman. Mary Ann's love, strength, nurturing spirit, and her green thumb will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Ms. Mary Ann Shears

October 30, 1942 - November 25, 2025