This obituary was originally published on Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home.
Mary Pugh Dickens, 92, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully at Whispering Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Born in 1933 in her grandparents’ home, Mary was the daughter of Robert Clarence Pugh and Ruby Catherine Pugh. She graduated from Stedman High School and went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Mary devoted 33 years of her life to education, teaching seventh-grade students and leaving a lasting impact on generations of young people.
Mary had a deep love for the beach and spent 12 cherished years living along the coast, where she formed special bonds with the wonderful community of Harker’s Island. She later moved to Greensboro, which became her beloved home for 22 years. Mary found joy in music and travel, and she especially treasured programs like Hanging of the Greens.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Glen Shaw Dickens. She is survived by her sister, Katherine Blackman; sister-in-law, Helen Alsphaugh; brother, Kirby Pugh; and her nephew and niece, Robert and Karen Blackman.
A graveside service will be held at Cedar Creek Baptist Church Cemetery on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 1:00 pm.
The family extends special thanks to the staff of Pruitt Hospice and the nursing staff of Whispering Pines for their compassionate care.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301.
Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com.