Mary Delores Exum

Obituary

Mary Delores “Lois” Exum was born on February 29, 1940 in Oakwood, Norfolk County, Virginia to James Williams and Mary Lee Brown. She was the oldest child and was followed by seven siblings.

Sister Exum was a unique Women of God. She was “mother” to many and a constant, steady Christian Soldier. Mother Exum loved the Lord at an early age as a member of Disciples of Christ Church in Norfolk, VA. Mother Exum left Norfolk at the age of seventeen to pursue her education. She graduated from St. Albans High School, Queens, New York in 1958. She later continued her studies and settled into a career as a nursing assistant.

Shortly after completing school she met a young man, John William Exum, Jr. of Tarboro, North Carolina. The two dated, fell in love and sealed their union in Holy Matrimony at the Holy Sacred Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY, officiated by Rev. John H. Christopher on July 15, 1961. A scripture from their Holy nuptials was, “ The Peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

Brother John and Mother Exum began their life in Brooklyn, NY where the first of their children was born. Shortly after the birth of their first child, they bought their first home in Brentwood, NY where she resided until the Lord accepted her into His house of glory.

Mother Exum was faithful to Christ, raising her children to always serve and love the Lord. She became ill at the age of thirty-four and pressed her way always trusting in the Lord. As a devoted wife and mother she was truly dedicated and faithful.

Brother John and Mother Exum began worshipping at Bread of Life Fellowship in 1994, under the leadership of “her” Apostle Randy Brown and Pastor Gayle Brown where she remained a faithful member.

Mother Exum went home to be with the Lord on September 1, 2001 at 3:00 pm

Mother Exum leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate her good life’s work, her husband of forty years, John William Exum Jr., Brentwood, NY; three loving, devoted children: her oldest son Eric Anthony Exum, Brentwood, NY, one daughter Adrianne Delzorah Smiling, North Plainfield, NJ, her youngest son, John Kenneth Exum, Brentwood, NY; 1 god-daughter: Clanese Evans, Jacksonville, FL; her Mother: Mary Lee Brown, Norfolk, VA; sister-in-law: Marie (Dena) Williams widow of beloved brother James Ray Williams, Norfolk, VA; 3 brothers:  Charles Brown, Randy Brown and Gilbert Brown all of Norfolk, VA; 3 sisters: Gaile Taylor, Renee Griffin, both of Norfolk, VA, Robbin Brown of San Diego, CA; mother-in-law: Delzora Lee Exum of Tarboro, NC, a loving son-in-law: Jimmie Lee Smiling; daughter-in-law: Theresa, five grandsons, three adoring granddaughters, nine sister-in-laws, seven brother-in-laws and a host of nieces, nephews, family, church family and friends.

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