Mary Eleanor Young

Mary Eleanor Young, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away on February 1, 2026, at her residence in Statesboro, surrounded by the loving care of Affinis Hospice and her family. Mary was born on February 15, 1944, in the quaint town of Cambridge, England to William and Alice Taylor Oliver.  Bringing her vibrant spirit and indomitable strength, Mary left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Mary met and married the love of her life, Thomas Young while he was serving his country in the United States Air Force and stationed in England. She was a devoted wife for 63 years. 

Mary dedicated her professional life to serving as a secretary at the Glennville Middle School, where her warmth and commitment to nurturing young minds blended seamlessly into the fabric of the school community. Throughout her career, she exemplified what it meant to be a people lover, building connections that lasted a lifetime, embodying the very spirit of kindness and generosity.

An ardent foster parent for over thirty years, Mary's heart was expansive, embracing children with love and guidance, offering them a place to call home and hope for a brighter future. Her commitment to nurturing others extended well beyond her family, as she devoted her time and talents to teaching Sunday school and participating in Women's ministries at Cornerstone Bible Church, as well as being an active member of Glennville First Baptist Church. Through these pursuits, she enriched the lives of countless individuals, imparting wisdom, compassion, and faith to those around her.

Mary held a passionate appreciation for her English heritage, often sharing stories that bridged her past to the present. Her pride in her family was evident in everything she did, as they were her greatest treasure and her proudest accomplishment. She rejoiced in every moment spent with them, weaving memories that will be cherished for generations to come. Whether through her love of sewing or conversations filled with laughter, Mary cultivated an atmosphere of belonging that nurtured and inspired.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law, Mary Ann Young and a niece, Tammy Young Brannen.

She is survived by: her husband, Thomas "Tom" Young, her daughters, Cherie Bland of Statesboro, Georgia and Kathy Kirkland of Glennville, Georgia. A brother and sister-in-law, John and Molly Oliver of Statesboro, Georgia, brother-in-law, Charles "Chuck" Young and his children, Charlie Young, Albert Young, Cheryl Hendrix and Shauna King. Her beloved grandchildren, Joseph Taylor Folsom (Chris Fincher & John Neville), Brendon Folsom and Wesley Bland. Her best friend whom she loved like a sister, Judy Dasher and Mandy Hawkins whom she loved like a daughter.

While we mourn the loss of this extraordinary woman, we rejoice in the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to family and community. Mary Eleanor Young will forever remain in our hearts, her light continuing to shine through the lives she touched with grace and kindness.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 am, Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Brannen Family Funeral Services. A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at the chapel of Brannen Family Funeral Services. 

Remembrance's to: Foster Care Support Foundation, 417 Fair Road, Statesboro, GA 30458, or St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN 38105 or online at stjudes.org

Care and Services are entrusted to Brannen Family Funeral Service, Glennville, Georgia. "Our Family Serving Your Family."