Mary Belle (Bumbrey) Redmond-Head lived an extraordinary life, which left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She was born on June 5, 1936, in Moss Neck, VA, to George and Ellen Bumbrey. Mary was the twelfth child out of sixteen born to this union. Her family experienced significant changes during World War II when their home and community were taken by eminent domain for the war effort, prompting a move to Fredericksburg, Virginia. This transition marked a pivotal time in her life, and she attended Walker Grant School in Fredericksburg.
Mary married the late Perry Othello Redmond Sr., who was a U.S. Army soldier, and Korean War veteran, and they later relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, where they started a family. Perry Sr. went on to serve in the U.S. Army, worked at the United Postal Service, and eventually became Vice President of Universal Life Insurance Company in Memphis, Tennessee. Although their marriage ended in the late 1970s, Mary cherished the years spent with him. Subsequently, she found happiness with Mose Head, whom she married in the 1980s, and gained a stepson, Virgil (deceased). Mary and Mose shared many wonderful years together until his passing in 1999.

Mary was an Icon and a trailblazer who faced and overcame numerous challenges. She desired to pursue a career in law enforcement or join the military, demonstrating her courage and determination from a young age. However, her parents did not allow her to pursue either path. Her resilience and strength were further exemplified later when she became the first Black woman hired as a Ramp Agent for Eastern Airlines in the 1970s. Despite encountering discrimination and harassment in this role, Mary stood her ground and earned the respect of her peers before retiring from Eastern Airlines.

Family and community were always close to Mary's heart. She had strong family roots in Fredericksburg and maintained a close bond with her siblings, children, and grandchildren throughout her life. Mary worked as a security guard at Wellston School District in St. Louis, where she developed deep connections with students and families, earning respect and admiration within the community. She returned to Fredericksburg to live in the early 2000s.

In the twilight of her life, Mary found a profound sense of peace and belonging. Her journey led her to the welcoming embrace of Shiloh Newsite Baptist Church. With a heart full of faith and a spirit eager for connection, she joined the congregation by Christian experience. This decision was not just a formality; it was a testament to her enduring faith and her desire to be part of a community that shared her devotion.

Mary's vivacious spirit and zest for life were evident in her love for music, particularly the Blues, Rhythm and Blues, and the music of "Anthony Hamilton." She was known for her outgoing, loving, and upbeat personality, and her passion for dancing brought joy to those around her. Some will remember her catchphrase "Put It On Paper" from another of her favorite songs by Ann Nesbit and Al Green. She enjoyed playing spades and bid whistles with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. She was known for her spirited chatter, and her unique ritual of turning and patting the deck to sway the luck in her favor became legendary. Her joy was palpable when her team triumphed, making every game night a cherished memory. She also enjoyed the thrill of the slot machines, always sticking to "pennies only, of course." In quieter moments, she loved working
on word search puzzles. A proud Dallas Football fan, she enjoyed watching and watched the first game of the season.

Mary also had a strong sense of duty, working tirelessly to ensure the highest standards in her yard, gardening, and house cleaning. Her love for travel took her to various destinations in the United States and beyond, including Germany, France (Paris), and the Caribbean (St. Kitts), where she cherished the experiences shared with loved ones.

In her final year, Mary faced illness with unwavering strength and grace. Her love and resilience continued to shine through until the very end when she answered the Lord's call. Mary's passing on August 25, 2024, left a void in the hearts of her loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, George, and Ellen Bumbrey; siblings, Robert Bumbrey, James Bumbrey, Rosie Kendall, Ruth Lewis, George "Churchill" Bumbrey, Charles "PI" Bumbrey, Richard "Big Head" Bumbrey, Mabel McMillan, Delphia Anderson, Marion Williams, Nancy Jackson, Cora Green, and Alberta Henderson.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Kim McManus (devoted and loving son-in-law, Barry) of Leesburg, VA, and Kennya Melinda Redmond of Dallas, TX; her son, Perry O. Redmond Jr. (Christine) of Georgia; her brother, Joseph L. Bumbrey Sr. (Frances) of Selma, AL; and her sister-in-law, Iretha Bumbrey of Fredericksburg, VA, and brother-in-law, Lessie Henderson of Fredericksburg, VA. Her seven grandchildren also survive her: Bryan Fuselier (Stephanie) of Fredericksburg, VA, Perry Redmond III of San Antonio, TX, Marcus Redmond (Rachel) of Georgia, Donnell Perry Jr. of Dallas, TX, Kiara Perry of Dallas, TX, Chaesarae Redmond (Chaz) of Georgia, and Chaesana Redmond (Chase) of Georgia. Additionally, she leaves behind three great-grandchildren: Lailah Redmond of Texas, Bryce Fuselier of Virginia (her main little man), and Kaspian Redmond of Georgia. Her step-grandson also remembers her, Sean McManus (Vanessa) of Virginia, and three step-grandchildren: Kean McManus, Keera McManus, and Kevon McManus of Virginia, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends that she cherished also survive her.

A viewing will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church New Site on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 10:00 AM followed by a funeral 11:00 AM. The interment will follow at Mount Lawn Cemetery.