Mary Elizabeth Rippy Drewery

Mary Elizabeth Rippy Drewery, age 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Jackson Madison County General Hospital. She was born on October 9, 1934, in Cross Plains, TN, the daughter of the late Chester and Robbie Rippy. Mary lived a life filled with love, dedication, and a nurturing spirit.

Mary served in several secretarial roles throughout her career, which showcased her professionalism and commitment. She contributed significantly to the Tennessee Department of Mental Health in Nashville and later held positions with Tennessee Consolidated Aluminum and the District Attorney’s office in Jackson, TN. Her work life was characterized by her diligence and caring nature, which extended to everyone she encountered.

Mary was an active member of First Baptist Church, a friend to many, and beloved by her entire family. Known for her friendly demeanor and caring personality, she had a knack for brightening the lives of those around her. In her leisure time, she cultivated her passions for gardening, music, and crafting, reflecting her creative spirit and love for nature. She was active in the garden club, served on the Jackson Community Concerts’ committee, and was a pianist for First Baptist Church’s preschool children’s choir for many years.

Mary was preceded in death by her son, Richard Drewery, and her parents, Chester and Robbie Rippy.

She was survived by her husband, Richard Drewery, their daughters, Dawn Covington and Diana Hart, and her sons-in-law, Ronald Covington and Spencer Hart. Her six grandchildren, Andrew Covington, Elise Covington, Craig Covington, Brent Drewery, Sarah Loiacano, her husband Andrew, Allison James and her husband Gerry, and four great-grandchildren Wyatt Drewery, Roman Loiacano, Caroline Loiacano, and Mara James. Family was at the heart of Mary’s life, and she took great joy as a mother, adoring grandmother, and great-grandmother.

A visitation honoring Mary will be held on February 3, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Jackson, located at 1627 N Highland Ave, Jackson, TN. This will be followed by a funeral service commencing at 2:00 p.m., where friends and family will gather to celebrate her remarkable life.

Mary Elizabeth Rippy Drewery will be remembered for her enduring kindness, strong familial bonds, and the joy she brought to all aspects of her life. As we reflect on her legacy, we are reminded to embrace our loved ones and nurture our passions, just as Mary did.