Mary Ann Nessamar Dudley

Mrs. Mary Ann Nessamar Dudley, 75, of Americus, passed away at her residence on February 19, 2025. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 2:00PM in Ellaville City Cemetery with Bro. Stephen Fripp officiating. The family will greet friends at Way-Watson Funeral Home in Ellaville on Friday evening from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. 

Born January 13, 1950, in Americus, Georgia, to Giuseppe Maxtuvious Franciscus Nessamar and Mary Eva Heath Nessamar, she lived her childhood years in Schley County and later Americus. Thoughout her life Mary Ann spent her time most often with family, especially her sister Maxine Nessamar Stribling and brother, Andrew Lawrence “Bud” Nessamar. She is survived by her husband of thirty-six years, Crawford Dudley Jr., and her beloved children, Jessi Ann Austin Wade and Stuart Griffin Austin (Joanna). She was a precious Mimi to grandchildren Camilla Austin Wade, Anna-Claire Wade, and Pierce William Austin. She was preceded in death by her parents and her dear brother, Andrew Lawrence “Bud” Nessamar. 

A graduate of Americus High School, she earned a degree in comprehensive business education and a master’s in education from Georgia Southwestern College. She was a dedicated classroom teacher for many years, while also earning an education specialist degree. She later also earned a media degree at Georgia College and State University. She took her job as an educator very seriously. She made an impact on students for forty years of teaching in the Sumter and Schley County schools, and her career allowed her to interact with students of every age, from kindergarten through twelfth grade. 

Given that her father was a World War II combat Marine and her mother served the war effort through employment in Washington, D.C. at the War Department, Mary Ann had a lifelong interest in the history of that era. She was also the family historian who loved learning the details of both sides of her family, that of her mother, whose people have called South Georgia home for generations, and her father, whose parents immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island from their home near the Austrian/Italian border. She took pride in her unique heritage. 

Known for her contagious laughter and ebullient spirit, Mary Ann was a gracious hostess who loved sharing her home with loved ones. She excelled at making all who came through her door feel welcome. She enjoyed gardening and her pets. She also loved shopping and had a flair for bright colors. She maintained strong lifelong friendships and treasured time spent reminiscing with those who had shared her life over the years. 

Her greatest joy and dominant personality trait was her fierce love for her family, especially her beloved children and grandchildren. Mary Ann was the kind of mother and grandmother who would take any call, attend any event, and shoulder any burden for those she loved. She was her family’s most spirited cheerleader, most passionate advocate, and most fierce defender, and the impact of her love is everlasting. Her spirit, humor, wisdom, and loyalty will not be forgotten. 

Mary Ann was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Americus. 

Flowers are acceptable or memorial contributions may be made to cancer research.