Mary Lynn Chambers

Mary Lynn Chambers of Asheville, NC, passed away peacefully the morning of Sunday, May 23, with husband Ed Chambers by her side.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Florence and Rev. Guy A. Sluder and son, Daniel Bryan Chambers.  Lynn is survived by Edward Chambers, her husband of 59 years; son, Brady Guy Chambers, wife Debbie Stair Chambers; daughter-in-law, Dorene Rountree Chambers; grandchildren, Geoffrey Charles Chambers, Mara Lelia Chambers, Emma Estelle Chambers, Harper Ryan Chambers, Caroline Grace Chambers, and Aidan Thomas Stair.  Memorial will be held at Mount Carmel Baptist Church for those comfortable with indoor gatherings and use of face mask, Friday, May 28, at 6:30 pm. In lieu of a receiving line the family will gather outside at 5:00 pm.

From the day he first saw her, Ed thought Lynn was the most beautiful girl he ever saw. He is still amazed that she agreed to become his life partner for 59 years. She was graceful and expressive, with a killer smile that lit up her face entirely. He went downtown to Asheville to get a ring while Lynn was still in high school and put it on her finger, so other high school boys wouldn’t try to ask her out. Lynn was a beautiful child and continued to grace those around her with her beauty until her passing. 

People who knew Lynn well experienced a woman who loved life. When excited, her voice would lift in joy and laughter, she would throw her arms in the air and scream with joy. Her joy for life was infectious to all around her. She loved to travel and have adventures with Ed and friends. They traveled to college basketball games around the country, traveled to Montana to fish, and cruised in Hawaii and Alaska. With Ed’s mother and sister-in-law, she went to France, Germany and Italy, traveling with Ed’s niece who was living in Germany with her husband in service. She loved going to new places and having new experiences. She was curious about other people’s experiences and was always willing to listen and learn with interest. She wanted to know all about them, and never forgot what they told her. Lynn was able to make others feel special in every way.

From childhood until the end of her life, Lynn represented an outstanding example of a well-lived Christian life. She served as the first female Sunday School superintendent at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and led Bible study and youth groups. Lynn was always known as being a living example of a Christian woman, who not only professed, but lived her faith every day of her life. She carried that faith with a grace and wisdom that influenced those with whom she spent time to become more spiritual themselves. She was the “rock” for many friends and family and an angel on earth for others.

Her home became a second home to visitors from near and far. She intentionally provided something unique and special for each person. These guests included family, “referee” friends of Ed’s, neighbors and their families, and her children’s buddies, to whom she became “Mom #2.” She remembered special occasions for each person and sent cards to let them know she was thinking of them. Meals at her home included a spread of delicious and lovingly prepared dishes, with a favorite for each guest. No one left her table without feeling special and fully satisfied. 

While Lynn filled her life with many friends and family who she loved dearly, her devotion was greatest for her family. For 59 years of marriage to Ed, she was his best friend, travel companion, homemaker extraordinaire, and maker of things he really liked. She kept the knowledge for the family and served as a memory keeper and partner in life’s endeavors for Ed, too. For Bryan, in addition to being his cheerleader and coach, Lynn was his base, his confidante and angel. He adored his mother in all ways until his dying day.  For Brady, Lynn was his “enough”, never having to feel like he needed to be smarter, faster, smoother, more graceful, or in any way anything but who he was/is.  She was his wholly safe place where she would listen, hold, care, and offer a nugget of gold advice without ever shaming or overstepping.             

Each grandchild had special gifts wrapped in favorite colors, a special individual Christmas tree, and cards for every occasion. They were her pride and joy. Hearing their voices would bring a sparkle to her eyes and a wide brilliant smile. Bryan’s children, Geoffrey and Mara, adored being in her presence and listening to her words of wisdom about life.  Brady’s children grew up around the special little table in the kitchen just the right height for them.  Baking together with their Nana is a fond memory.  For the children of close friends who have passed, Lynn became a second mom, providing love and solace when needed. For cousins living in other parts of the country, she was their confidante and keeper of family memories. She always remembered every birthday, knew every momentous occasion, and celebrated all events with them.

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