Mary E. Jarrett, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went home and is with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on March 4, 2026, in Nederland, Texas. Born to James Arthur Woods and Lee Pauline Woods on June 17, 1936, in Port Arthur, Texas, Mary was a remarkable woman whose life was devoted to her faith, family, and community.
For twelve years, Mary served as the Day Care Director at Val Verde Baptist Church, where her commitment to nurturing young minds was evident. She was also an esteemed educator, having taught in private schools, where she touched countless lives with her kindness and dedication. A faithful Sunday School teacher and a strong prayer warrior, Mary ensured that her family understood the importance of faith in Christ.
Mary brought joy to all who knew her with her vibrant personality and a love for sports. An ardent fan of football and baseball, her favorite team being the Houston Astros, Mary found great delight in attending sporting events, particularly to cheer for her grandchildren. Her spirited engagement in these events was well-known; she would passionately call out coaches and referees.
Throughout her life, Mary cherished her family above all else. She took pride in gathering her loved ones, regaling them with stories of yesteryear while sitting on the front porch or around the dinner table. Her proudest accomplishments were her family, and she exemplified love and unity during many family gatherings.
Mary leaves behind a loving family who will continue to hold her memory dear. She is survived by her two daughters, Vicki Kelly and her husband, Greg of Nederland, and Cindy Lewis and her husband, David of Red Oak, Texas. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Lee Ann Clayton of Beaumont, Jason Jarrett and his wife, Jennifer of Buna, Jonathan Jarrett of Lufkin, Daniel Jarrett and his wife, Ashley of Bridge City, Jeni Oglesby and her husband, Blake of Palmer, Texas, Jamie Wells and her husband, Bryce of Waco, Shauna Leonard and her husband, Kirk of Nederland, and Jarrett Kelly and his wife, Maicy of Lumberton. Mary was also a proud great-grandmother to numerous great-grandchildren including Justin Locke, Ashleigh Sexton, Kaitlyn Anderle, Cale Jarrett, Jenna Jarrett, Jacee Jarrett, Ethan Jarrett, McKenna Jarrett, Cody Jarrett, Colton Jarrett, Jordis Clayton, Trey Clayton, Sadie Clayton, Isaac Jarrett, Leighton Jarrett, Emery Jarrett, Karter Brown, Jennings Kelly, Oaklyn Kelly, Jaxston Vanslyke, Olivia Leonard, Alice Leonard, Ella Oglesby, Liam Oglesby, Nathan Wells, Abbie Wells, and Hailey Wells.
Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Aundria Bridges and her husband, Bill of Groves, along with numerous nieces and nephews, who will miss her dearly.
Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband of 35 years, James Jarrett, their son Monty Jarrett, and her sister Martha Redman.
Visitation will be held on March 9, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home located at 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas. The funeral service will follow on March 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM, also at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, culminating in a graveside service held at Memory Gardens in Nederland, Texas.
Mary E. Jarrett will be remembered not only for her unwavering faith and nurturing spirit but also for the profound impact she made as a matriarch of her family. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and lives of those she loved dearly.