Mary Frances Covington

Mary Frances Covington, lovingly known as "Mae," passed away peacefully, leaving behind a rich legacy of faith, service, and love. Born on January 29, 1947, in Cave Spring, Georgia, to the late David and Vivian (Neal) Shepherd, Mary moved with her family to Detroit, Michigan, around 1948. She was the third of eight children and was preceded in death by her brothers, David Jr. and Charles. On June 12, 1966, Mary married Ben James Covington. Together, they shared two children, Tanya Denise and Ben James "Cubby" Covington Jr., who also preceded her in death. A lifelong and devoted member of Lomax Temple AME Zion Church, Mary's faith guided every aspect of her life. Baptized in the mid-1950s, she became a pillar of the church community. She served faithfully through various ministries including the Y-Teens, the W.H.O.M. Missionary Society, and the Steward Board. In 2009, Rev. Brian Relford appointed her to the Steward Board, and in the 2011-2012 Conference Year, she made history as the first woman appointed as Preacher's Steward at Lomax Temple. Mary served as Chairman of the Steward Board until her passing, leaving an indelible mark on the church she so dearly loved. Mary graduated from John J. Pershing High School in 1965 and pursued further education at the Detroit Business Institute. Her professional career was wide-ranging and impactful, including roles with Federal's Warehouse, Detroit Public Schools, Alpha Family Counseling, Chrysler Corporation, and General Dynamics Corporation, where she retired. Never one to slow down, she began a successful second career in the tax industry, first with Jackson Hewitt and later as the proud owner of her own franchise in Southfield, Michigan, which she operated for over 25 years. Through this work, she became a trusted advisor and friend to many. Beyond her remarkable career and spiritual commitments, Mary lived life fully and joyfully. She was known for her impeccable fashion sense, love of dancing, roller skating at Arcadia Roller Rink, bowling, attending R&B concerts, and traveling. Family reunions and time with friends many of whom she'd known since childhood-brought her immense joy. Among her dearest lifelong friends were Lanis Wimbley, Odie Burton, Lenore Iverson, Charlene Attles, Charlene Turk-Gibson, twins Betty and Irma Duffie, Barbara "Babs" Lenard, and Karen "Tootie" Adams. Mary is survived by her loving daughter, Tanya Denise Mims; her cherished niece, Tiffany Jenai Shepherd (Preston); her beloved grandchildren, Corey Dickerson (MarQuisha), Jazzmin Mims, and Nevaeh Harris-Tucker; and her great-grandchildren, Brooklynn, Kyson, and Kyrie Dickerson. She also leaves behind her devoted siblings, Janice Warren (Larry), Matilda Ware (Floyd), Dorothy Grigsby, Carolyn Shepherd, and Richard Shepherd (Deborah); along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, her Lomax Temple family, and countless treasured friends. Mary Frances Covington's life was one of love, faith, resilience, and unwavering service. Her light will continue to shine in all those blessed to have known her.

Mary Frances Covington

January 29, 1947 - October 11, 2025