Mrs. Mary Ann McCleave, 86, of Charlotte, NC, departed this life on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Levine & Dickson-Southminster.

Our beloved, Mary Ann Darby McCleave, was born on September 26, 1938, to the late Murray and Ella Darby, in Chester, South Carolina.  She peacefully departed this life on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Levine & Dickson Hospice House at Southminster in Charlotte, NC.

At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at Christian Home Baptist Church in Chester, South Carolina. After relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, she joined Temple Chapel Baptist Church, where she remained a faithful member until her health declined.

Mary was united in holy matrimony to the late Elliott C. McCleave. They shared 53 years of marriage until his passing in 2010. Mary was also preceded in death by her eleven siblings, James, Palline, Henrietta, Reola, Charlie, Anna Mae, Nathaniel, Luella, Ulysses, Arthur "A.D.," and Leecy, and by her special niece, Ruby L. Darby.

She received her education through the Chester County School System. Shortly after moving to Charlotte, she began working at Secrest Laundry. She later joined Lance Incorporated, where she worked as a peanut packer for 27 years until her retirement.

Mary deeply loved her family and cherished time spent at family gatherings. Known for her delicious homemade pies and macaroni and cheese, she continued her passion for cooking even after retirement. Mary had a generous and caring spirit, and she took great joy in caring for others. She also enjoyed reading and watching her favorite television shows.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, William D. "Doug" McCleave (Theresa) of Pineville, NC; daughter, Angela McCleave and son, Christopher C. McCleave, both of Charlotte, NC. She is also survived by five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; special nieces Benita Darby Johnson of Asheville, NC, Imagene Bacote and Ola Mae Willingham, both of Charlotte, NC; a special brother-in-law, William Arthur "Pete" McCleave of Fort Mill, SC; a dear friend, Cornelia Martin of Charlotte, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends, and loved ones.