Mary Christine Varner

Varner – Mary Christine Jordan Varner peacefully departed this earthly life on December 20, 2025, at the remarkable age of 100. Born on October 5, 1925, in Tifton, Georgia, Mary was the beloved daughter of Minnie and William Henry Jordan and grew up surrounded by a lively, loving family of brothers and sisters: James Henry, Huey, Hubert, Billy, Leroy, Dorothy Jean Jenson, Kate Modock and Juanita Blalock.

Mary met the love of her life, Kirby Newton Varner, in October 1943, and just two days later, they were married, beginning a partnership that would last nearly fifty years. Kirby served honorably in the United States Army during World War II in France, earning a Purple Heart and a modest pension, while Mary supported him with unwavering strength and devotion. After the war, limited job opportunities in Tifton led the couple to relocate to Jacksonville, Florida, with their son, Joseph and daughter, Brenda, in 1952, determined to build a better life.

Shortly after arriving, Mary gave birth to their third and youngest child, Steve, and began working at a laundry mat on Bay Street in 1955. With perseverance, she used her savings to attend Jones Business College, where she earned her certification as a Key Punch Operator. She later went on to retire from Ryder Truck Lines. Mary was a charter member of Highlands Methodist Church and was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Known for her grace and fashion sense, Mary loved to laugh and easily made people around her feel instantly at home. She is preceded in death by her parents, Minnie and William Henry Jordan, her husband, Kirby; siblings James Henry, Huey, Hubert, Billy, Leroy, Dorothy Jean and Juanita; son-in-law James, and granddaughter, Tammy.

Mary is survived by her children, Joseph (Sandra) Varner, Brenda Simmons, and Steve Varner; grandchildren, Angela Johns (Kellan); Kimberly Noble (Scott); Jeremy Simmons (Jamie), great-grandchildren, Chelsea (Jonathan), Jordan, Hunter, Eli James, Emma Lee, and great-great-grandson, Jackson.

The tribute above was prepared by Mary's loving family.

A Celebration of Mary's Life will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Cedar Bay Funeral Home with Pastor Jason Reid officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 Main Street North, Jacksonville, Florida, 32206. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of CEDAR BAY FUNERAL HOME, 405 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, Florida, 32218. (904) 714-1110.