Mary Ann Whitaker

Mary Ann Whitaker, a cherished member of the Grand Prairie community, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on August 17, 1940, in Jackson, Tennessee, the oldest of two children, Mary Ann moved to Texas at the age of sixteen, where she built a fulfilling life dedicated to family and service.
Mary Ann was the beloved mother of Russell Whitaker and his wife, Soraya. She was a devoted grandmother to the "dynamic duo"; Kayla Clark and Jenna Whitaker; great-grandmother to Cason Clark and a sister to Andrea Blake. She also leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth to her nephews, Jerald Andrew Blake and Jose Luis Medina and his spouse Gloria Medina.
An accomplished dance instructor, Mary Ann impacted the lives of thousands of students in Grand Prairie, teaching a rich array of genres from tap to ballet. Her passion for dance nurtured a vibrant community, inspiring generations to express themselves through movement.
A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church for sixty-eight years, Mary Ann's faith and commitment to her community were central to her life. She leaves behind a profound impact on all who knew her.
A Memorial Service will be held in her honor at the First United Methodist Church, 122 N Center Street, Grand Prairie, TX, 75050 on February 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate the remarkable life of Mary Ann Whitaker, remembering her generosity, love of dance, and unwavering spirit.
In this time of remembrance, we find comfort in the memories shared, knowing that her legacy of love and community will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who loved her.
Mary Ann was blessed by a life married to her husband of fifty-nine years, the late James Franklin Whitaker Jr. and her parents; Andrew Thomas Little and Mary Pearl Russell.