Mary Ann Dudley-Heards

Mary Ann Dudley-Heards was born on August 22, 1958, and peacefully departed this life on March 10, 2026. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will forever live on in the hearts of those blessed to know her.

A proud graduate of Washington High School, Mary later earned her Bachelor’s degree from the Aultman School of Nursing in 1992, where she continued to deepen her passion for helping others and making a difference in people’s lives.

Mary dedicated her life to caring for others as a Registered Nurse, with her final and most meaningful role serving as a hospice nurse. In this role, she provided comfort, dignity, and compassion to patients and their families during life’s most difficult moments.

Mary took great pride in her appearance and carried herself with grace and confidence. She believed in leading by example and showed those around her the importance of kindness, strength, and self-respect. Beautiful both inside and out, her warm spirit and genuine heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Mary had a love for shopping, often spending endless hours browsing the stores, something she truly enjoyed. She also enjoyed traveling and exploring the world, visiting many different countries and embracing the experiences and cultures she encountered along the way. She cherished family and family gatherings, where laughter, conversation, and togetherness meant so much to her. Those closest to her will always remember her joyful personality and the way she would often say “Whoot Whoot!”, bringing smiles and laughter to those around her.

Above all, Mary cherished her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Calvin Heards, Sr.; her daughters, Salesia (Michael) Dudley-Alford and Analesa Dudley; her father, Edward L. (Pamela) Dudley, Sr.; her sisters, Cheryl (Terry) Dudley-Mitchell, Kelly (Greg) Dudley, and Kimberly (Will) Collins; her brothers, Edward L. Dudley, Jr. and Christopher Dudley; and her beloved grandchildren, Keana “Swirl” Pounds, William “Steeler Bill” Pettis, and Mikayla and Malia Alford, lovingly known to her as Grandma’s “Baby Dolls.” She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, stepchildren, step-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends who will continue to honor her memory.

Mary was preceded in death by her mother, Anna Pearl Dudley; her son, Calvin Heards, Jr.; and her sister, Yvonne Dudley.

Mary Ann Dudley-Heards will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her unwavering love, compassionate spirit, and the lasting impact she made on the lives of so many.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Mary’s life. Visitation will be held at Paquelet Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home in Massillon, Ohio, on March 27, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, with a funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM.

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