July 19, 2025, 90, Goldsboro —
Mary Ann Herring, 90, peacefully passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Rolling Ridge Assisted Living in Newton Grove. Born in Wayne County on September 19, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Esten Lewis, Sr. and Gladys Williams Herring.
In addition to her parents, Mary Ann was preceded in death by her sons, Philip Dail and Greg Dail; brothers, Lewis Herring, Keith Herring, Lamont Herring, and Roger Herring; a sister-in-law who was more like a sister, Keith’s wife, Peggy Uzzell Herring; and nephew, Gerald Herring.
Mary Ann is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Joe “MJ” Herring and Mark Evan; son, Mark Joseph Dail; granddaughter, Melissa Carr (Ed); and great-granddaughters, Madison Batton and Mackenzie Batton. She is also survived by several special nieces and nephews to include, Melanie Woodard, Angelia Jones, Laura Dudley, Timothy Herring, and Michael Herring; and her best friend, Betty Matthews.
A lifelong member of Providence Church, Mary Ann was deeply rooted in her faith and her community. She served in many areas of the church with grace and dedication, always eager to lend a helping hand and offer encouragement to those around her.
For 31 years, Mary Ann worked alongside her family at Herring Milling Company, serving as office manager. Her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and welcoming spirit made her a beloved part of the business and the lives of those she worked with.
Mary Ann found joy in the simple pleasures of life—working in her yard, dancing, and spending time with her many friends. She never met a stranger and had a unique gift for making everyone feel like family. Her time as a resident of Rolling Ridge over the past seven years brought her new friendships and continued joy, and she cherished being part of that community.
Above all, Mary Ann was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Her love for her family was boundless, and she took special joy in each role she filled.
A celebration of Mary Ann’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025 in the sanctuary of Providence Church with Rev. David Pate and Pastor Amy Kelly officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the residents and staff at Rolling Ridge Assisted Living for the love, care, and support shown to Mary Ann the last seven years. They would also like to acknowledge their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their loving kindness in Mary Ann’s final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Providence Church, 202 Providence Church Road, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
