of Marion, AR

July 6, 1942 - April 20, 2025

Mary Anne Pike of Marion passed away at home with family at the age of 82. She was born July 6, 1942, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, to John and Mary Oates. She grew up in Campbell, Missouri, where she developed a love for music while playing in the school band. Mary Anne was Valedictorian of her graduating class. She married her best friend, Butch Pike, in 1960.

Butch and Mary Anne started a family with the birth of their daughter, Lee Anne. They moved to Marion, AR in 1964, where their family grew to include two sons, John and Jimmy. Mary Anne loved to learn and was an avid reader. She dedicated her life to educating not only her children but countless others. Mary Anne was a co-founder of West Memphis Christian School in 1970 and served as Principal and Chancellor for over 50 years. The WMCS Library is named in her honor. Mary Anne achieved a Bachelor's degree in English from Ole Miss University and a Master's of Administration from Arkansas State University. Mary Anne loved her church family at Missouri Street Church of Christ and was involved in many activities, which included mission work on the Navajo Reservation. Mary Anne loved to travel. She visited Japan and Israel with her friends and family. When her children or grandchildren participated in any event, Mary Anne could always be found cheering them on.

She was a woman of rare grace, strength, and wisdom. She was the embodiment of the Proverbs 31 womanâ€"clothed with dignity, kindness, and unwavering faith. She lived her life as a servant leader, giving her heart fully to the work of God, her family, and the countless children whose lives she touched. Her pursuit of excellence was always for the glory of God and the betterment of others. She loved children with a love that was patient, joyful, and boundless. She had a way of making every child feel seen, heard, and treasured. Her prayers were powerful, and her hugs unforgettable. She taught not only with words, but with her life. She will be missed!

She was preceded in death by her father and mother. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Butch; her daughter, Lee Anne and son-in-law, Tim Williams; her son, John; her son, Jimmy and daughter-in-law, Sheila Pike, as well as 8 grandchildren; Jessica Conn, Mary Lynn Lee, Wilson Pike, Bailey Westmoreland, McKenzie Foerster, Madison Ponder, Lauren Pike, and Landon Pike; as well as 5 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to West Memphis Christian School, P.O. Box 996, West Memphis AR 72303.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com