Mary Waldene Mize

Mary Waldene Mize, 85, of Beaumont, Texas passed away peacefully on June 15, 2021, at Brookdale Dowlen Oaks.

Born in Ponce de Leon, Florida, on October 12, 1935, she was the daughter of William Lee Merchant and Robelia Ardella Merchant (Lindsey). Mary was a member of St Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church. She loved dogs especially her beloved Babette. Mary enjoyed cooking and baking, every year she baked Christmas cookies to deliver to her friends and family. She really enjoyed spending her down time eating Mexican food and drinking margaritas with her family. Some of Mary’s favorite pass times were reading, sewing, puzzles and watching football. She was “Memaw” to her grandkids who she adored and loved. Mary will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the pleasure to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Robelia Merchant; and husband Dick Mize. Mary was known as “Dene” by her family.

She is survived by her children, Debbie Bevilacqua of Lumberton, Carolyn Kirkpatrick of Beaumont, James Bevilacqua claimed as the son she never had; siblings, Audrey Bowlin, Earl Merchant, Dub Merchant; grandchildren, Jamie Accardo, Brian Bevilacqua, Bruce Bevilacqua, Brad Bevilacqua, Jimmy Bevilacqua, Marissa Fortune, Megan Fortune; great-grandchildren, Olivia and Drew, Luke and Jack, Matthew and Mark, Rose, Dusty, and Lane.

The family would like to thank the staff of Brookdale Dowlen Oaks and Altus Hospice for their incredible care provided to Mary and the entire family. The family appreciates all the prayers and concerns extended to us during this time.

Services will be held at a later date in Mary’s hometown of Chipley, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Humane Society.