Mary Havens

Mary C. Havens, of Salem, Va., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. She was 91 years old.

Mary was born in Pearisburg, Va., to the late Emma Kate Kitts and Eugene Mose Collins, on Saturday, July 14, 1934. She spent her childhood in Giles County, and as a young woman accepted a date by the local undertaker's son. However, on the night he was to arrive, another young man named Joe came and unexpectedly stole her away. They were married in 1952 and had 56 years together until his passing in 2008.

Upon moving to Salem in 1970, she found employment at Kroger Company, where she worked as deli manager with immense dedication until her retirement. Mary had a passion for gardening flowers, and countless summers were spent in the beautiful flower gardens she tended. She also enjoyed shopping, and her loved ones fondly remember the tradition they shared of going out every Wednesday to shop and have lunch. Mary loved visiting the beach to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the tranquil views. She carried with her a glow that stood as testament to her love for spending time under the sun. What brought Mary joy in her later years was the company of her beloved dog, Oscar, whom she adored. Mary loved her family very much, and they will miss her deeply as they cherish the memories they have with her.

In addition to being predeceased by her parents, Mary was the last of their four children, and is preceded in death by her two sisters and one brother, as well as her husband of 56 years, Joe Havens.

Left to treasure Mary's memory are her son, Joe Havens and wife, Cherie; daughter, Jeannie Noble and husband, David; five grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

A service will be held in remembrance of Mary at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, December 19, 2025, at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, Salem, with Pastor Clark Richardson officiating. Friends are warmly invited for a period of visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the hour of the service. Interment will follow the service at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to offer their sincerest gratitude to Mary's dedicated caregivers, OMBI Healthcare, Affinity Hospice, and Raleigh Court Health and Rehab Center for their care and comfort during such a difficult time. They would also like to extend thanks to the many neighbors who offered help and kindness to Mary throughout the years.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.