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Mary Ella Staples Wilson was born to the late Burrell H. and Lucile Thompson Staples on Oct.1, 1927 in South Hill, Va. Her time on Earth ended Dec 27, 2017, when she was promoted to Heaven. Her older sister, Margaret, called her "Doll" when she was born, and from then on family and close friends always called her "Doll" as well. She was predeceased by husband Elree O. Wilson, sisters Margaret Ford, Carolyn Moose, and brother, Louis Staples. She is survived by daughter and son-in-law Cindy and Smith Bradford. Survivors also include grandchildren Cortney Bradford (Tabitha Hays), Corey Bradford (Vily), and great grandchildren Nelson Bradford and Grier Bradford. She is also survived by brother Steve Staples (Diane). Doll grew up in Statesville and Loray, NC, moving to Mooresville NC. soon after marrying Elree. Though a member of Concord Presbyterian Church while in Loray, after moving to Mooresville, she soon became a very active member of Southside Baptist Church, serving in various roles such as Sunday school teacher, visiting homebound members regularly, sitting on many committees and working with the ladies circles, for over 50 years. Before getting married, Doll worked for the Playhouse Theater in Statesville. After getting married and not working for several years, Doll was hired as a secretary at Davidson College Library. Working there for 30 years, she retired as business manager for the library. Her years at the library were truly enjoyable ones for her. Doll was widely known locally for her baking skills, namely her cakes. While unemployed, she would take orders for cakes during the week while baking, and then set out to deliver them on Fridays and Saturdays. If you were sick, or had a death in the family, you would have received one of these cakes!! When Doll was in her 80’s, Cindy and Smith asked her to move to Chester, Va., to be closer to them and the grandchildren and she agreed. While in Chester, she made many new friends and joined Ironbridge Baptist Church. It was there that she acquired the name "Little Mary". She also enjoyed the care and company of a very special lady, Ann Barba, for the past 4 years. Visitation will take place at Southside Baptist Church, Mooresville, NC, on Sat., Jan. 6 beginning at 2pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Southside Baptist Church, 525 S. Broad St., Mooresville, NC 28115 or Samaritan’s Purse, P. O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or a charity of your choice. A woman of excellence who will find? For her worth is far more than precious jewels." Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Wilson family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.

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Mary 'Doll' Ella 'Doll' Staples Wilson

October 1, 1927 - December 27, 2017