Mary Lenna Daeke

RALEIGH - Mary Lenna Daeke, 85, was released from her earthly bonds to enter the loving arms of the Lord on February 17, 2021. All who knew, and will always love her, will never forget her spirit and her love of God, family and friends, any and every cat, flowers, great food, a good book to read…and fruit! Mary was a lifetime resident of Raleigh, NC, and still resided in the home where she was born in the front bedroom. She was a proud graduate of Hugh Morson High School and enjoyed attending class reunions for years. A member of Tabernacle Baptist Church since childhood, she continued to enjoy her church and church family when physically able and prior to pandemic restrictions. Mary was a member of the church choir and its Living Christmas Tree event for many years. She was a valued employee of Liberty Mutual Insurance for over three decades until her retirement. Mary loved her family and, though she never had children of her own, was a loving and giving aunt to her niece and nephews. Mary enjoyed the company of her cousins and looked forward to spending time with them. She was proud of her neighborhood and her neighbors and kept watch over them all. Whenever she was in need of a favor or assistance, someone was there for her, even to the end of her days. She was the daughter of the late Henry H. and A. Lalon O’Briant Daeke of Raleigh and had two siblings, Emma Earle Daeke and Eva Carolyn Daeke Ragan, and a brother-in-law, Thomas Graham Ragan, who all preceded her in death. She is survived by her nephews Donald Graham Ragan and Ronald Leonard Ragan of Durham, John Thomas Ragan of Pikeville, and David Earl Ragan of Wilmington, and one niece, Margaret Ragan Parker and spouse Terry Russell Parker of Pikeville, as well as her loving cousins, church family, beloved neighbors, and her feline companion, Amos. Mary will be laid to rest at a graveside service on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at 12:00 noon at Montlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh, NC. Flowers and plants are appreciated as well as donations in her memory to Tabernacle Baptist Church or the Wake County SPCA. Arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com