Mary Elizabeth Mosely was born May 6, 1929 to Iona & Charles Derrickson in Danville, Illinois. Mary was the youngest sibling of a very large family of 12 known brothers and sisters. Lovingly known as the baby of the family and was the last surviving sibling. Mary was preceded in death by her 12 siblings, Wilber, Opal, Ralph, Carl, Norma, Dorothy (Aunt Dot), Rosella (Aunt Rose, Auntie), Charles, Robert (Uncle Bob), Albert (Uncle Pete), Herbert (Uncle Herb), and James (Uncle Big). Mary traveled often to her hometown throughout the years to visit her family and remained close to her extended family in Danville, Illinois. Mary loved spending time with her family and friends.
Mary finished high school and moved to Cleveland, Ohio in 1947. A short time after, she met and married William Harrington. From this union her first child was born, Vicki Acquah. At this time, Mary began studying the schemes, which was hard work. Mary went on to work at the United States Post Office, where she worked for 30 years until her retirement. She was recognized many times over the years for her hard work.
From other unions, Mary went on to have three more children, Kathleen Harris and Rosalyn Henderson-Fountain and Edward Derek Henderson with her then Husband, A. Edward (Eddie) Henderson. During the 1980’s she met John S. Mosely, who she would later marry. Mary and John were happily married until his death in 2011.
Mary was a servant of God and was a faithful member of Morning Star Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Cole. She was also a faithful member of True Vine Baptist Church and then Glenville Presbyterian Church under the leadership of Pastors Rick and Toby. In church, Mary served on the many committees and enjoyed singing and playing the piano. She was also very active in various women prayer groups, including the Postal Prayer Band which she was instrumental in starting.
Mary leaves to mourn: Three Grieving Daughters; Vicki Acquah, Kathleen Harris (James-Decease), and Rosalyn (Fletcher). Eleven Loving Grandchildren; Kelly(LeKeta), Patrice, Phillip(Jennifer), Selena(Dwayne) of Washington DC, Aleesha (Jerry), Derek DeRicco(Alecia), Chase, India of Jersey City, NJ, & Chaz(Amber). Twelve Heartbroken Great-Grandchildren: Jazmine, Gyasi, Sarah, Seynabou, Dakaria, Sincere, Jaicee’, D. Rick, Apollo, Milora, Infiniti, Izra, & Roman. As well as a host of Sadden extended family and friends.