With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved Mary Elizabeth Hanks Young, who went home to Jesus while surrounded by family on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at age 91.

A woman of warmth, humor, and remarkable liveliness, she lived a full and joyful life. Her larger-than-life smile became her trademark. Unmistakably Mary, that bright smile remained with her through her final days.

Mary always shared how blessed she felt and was quick to bless those around her. She was a devoted daughter, sister, and wife to high school sweetheart and lifelong husband of 72 years Luther J (LJ) Young; a proud and loving mother of three sons—Bruce (Rose), Brian (Donda) and Brent; a doting grandmother to Adrianne, Caitlin, Chandler (Nathan), Austin (Camilla), Braden, Kendal, and Tyler; and great-grandmother to Alda.

Born August 30, 1934, in Devers, Texas, to William Elmore Hanks and Beatrice Weatherford Hanks, Mary grew up alongside her older brother and sister, Elmore Hanks and Bertie (Hanks) Beavers. She excelled in all facets of education especially at Brenham High School where she was a Majorette in the band as well as member of several school productions. Mary’s life was full of purpose, service, and love. She volunteered extensively for the boy’s school’s PTA, Booster Clubs and several sports organizations they were involved in. Later, she completed paralegal school and worked for the Texas Department of Transportation.

For decades, Mary and LJ were faithful members of Chapelwood United Methodist Church Houston, First Methodist Church of Willis, and First Methodist Conroe. For years, Mary dedicated herself to studying, preparing, and teaching Sunday School lessons to the First Methodist’s BASIC Class she attended. Mary also volunteered with the Gathering Place serving individuals with dementia. She found joy in sharing her faith and encouraging those around her.

Every time family visited and it was time to head home, Mary would wait at the door to see us off. She would stand there to wave goodbye, watching and waving until we were out of sight. That smile, that wave, and the love behind them are memories her family will carry with them.

Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, September 17, 2026 at First Methodist Church in Conroe. Visitation at 10:00 a.m. with service starting at 11:00 a.m. followed by a reception. Burial will be Friday, September 18, 2026 at Prairie Lea Cemetery in Brenham, TX at 11:00 a.m.

Pallbearers are Austin Young, Braden Young, Tyler Young, Scott Young, Mitchell Kettrick, Nathan Tjon-Joe-Pin. Honorary Pallbearers Jerome Oddo and Steve Taylor

The family asks that memorial donations be made to the Gathering Place at First Methodist Conroe in Mary’s honor.