Mary Ann (Gibbs) Bywater

Mary Ann Bywater, a loving and gentle soul, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2023, at her home in Newton, Alabama. Born on November 12, 1938, in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, Mary was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend to many.

Mary is survived by her sons, Andrew Bywater of Clayhatchee and Danny Bywater (Robin) of Texas; daughters, Donna Bywater of Louisiana, Becky Nicholson of Abeline, Texas, and Terry Bass of Newton; grandson and caretaker, Will Bass; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Patsy Lawson of Kentucky; and brother, Charlie Gibbs of Kentucky. She is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Gibbs and Ollie Morgan Gibbs, and her husband of 43 years, Donald E. Bywater.

Throughout her life, Mary was a dedicated homemaker, raising her five children with love and care. She was a pillar of strength for her family, always putting their needs before her own. Mary's gentle nature and warm heart made her a beloved figure in her community, and her home was always open to friends and neighbors.

In her younger years, Mary ran a farm and lived in Germany for three years. When she was not with family, she enjoyed to garden. Family was at the heart of Mary's life, and she cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love for her family was boundless, and she took great joy in watching them grow and thrive. Mary's legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

Mary's gentle and loving nature will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will be cherished by her family and friends, who will remember her as a beacon of light and love in their lives. May Mary Ann Bywater rest in peace, surrounded by the love of those who have gone before her and the knowledge that her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and friendship.

A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 3:30pm in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be held at 3:00pm on Friday. Burial will follow the service in the Daleville Memorial Gardens.