Mary Ellen Shankle

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Ellen Bennett Shankle, 66, of Norwood, Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at Atrium Health in Charlotte.

Mary was born March 21, 1956, in Anson County to the late Benny “Bud” and Kathrine Little Benjamin.  She was a member of East Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Norwood. 

Mary was an active part of her community and could often be found showing her love by preparing meals for anyone who was hungry. When she wasn’t busy filling stomachs with delicious food, you could find her singing, dancing and enjoying family. In her most recent days, she shared her home with her grandson, Treshun and her favorite guinea guy, Mr. Nibbles.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Lillie Mae Little and her grandson, Cameron Shankle.

She is survived by her six children, Cassandra Benjamin of Virginia Beach, Joyce Ann Ward (Brian) of Kannapolis, NC, Paul Bennett (Tina) of Spartanburg, SC, Antonio Bennett (Krystle) of WA, Sandra Bennett of WA and Aretha Shankle of Norwood; 17 grandchildren: Brittany Heard, JC Benjamin, Dre’srea Joffrion, Anajah Shankle & Treshun Sellers, TreVante, Jlyn, Tiffany & Joshua Bennett, Maxwell Morrow, Kendra Wideman, Kennyia McDaniel, Shemaya Stanback , Lola & Charlee Bennett, Ciarra Weaver, Kambriale Ward and her 8 great grandchildren.

Additionally, her sisters: Rosa Lindsey, Louise Gaddy and Christina Mills; brothers: Benny, Charles, James, Fred, and Tracy Benjamin.

Mary is also survived by several nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Her life was also enriched by uncles, aunts, and friends that were always considered family.

A public viewing will be held at Edwards Funeral Home in Norwood, Friday, December 16, 2022, from 2:00PM-5:00PM. 

Funeral services will be held at 12:00PM, Saturday, December 17, 2022, at East Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Norwood. The cemetery service will be followed with a repass lunch at the fellowship hall. Family and friends of Mary are invited to attend.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Ellen Shankle, please visit our floral store.