Mary Ann Bicknell Gregory 1923 - 2010 "A Rose Beyond the Wall" "Near a shady wall a rose once grew....." Born to William Kelly and Minnie Ethel Bicknell in Downs, Illinois on April 12, 1923. Mary Ann was the youngest of five children: a sister, Buelah; brothers, Joseph Gilbert, Hugh, John D, whom all preceded her in death. "As it grew and blossomed....." Mary Ann graduated from Bloomington High in Bloomington, Illinois. "...Onward...with never a thought of fear or pride...." Mary Ann moved to California in 1946. Married Charles Albert Gregory at Bloomington, Illinois on June 10. 1946. They were married for 51 years until Charles' death in 1997. They raised a daughter, Charl Ann Gregory, of Weldon, California. Mary Ann worked a cafeteria manager for Bakersfield City School District, especially loving her time at Rafer Johnson School. She was active in PTA and Girl Scouts touching the lives and hearts of many. Through scouting, she met her friends of more than 50 years; Phyllis, Virginia, and Betty. She was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church. Mary Ann especially loved to spend time with her many nieces and nephews, delighting in baking dinner rolls and cooking for family gatherings. "Shall claim of death cause us to grieve..." Graveside services will be Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 1:00 PM, viewing will be from 8:30 AM - 12 Noon at Hillcrest Cemetery in Bakersfield California, officiated by her nephew, Fred Gregory. "...Let us faith and hope receive..." Special gratitude to friends Laura, LouAnn, Barbara, and Jim. Also to Dr. Denis Maddox for his loving care. She is "scattering fragrance far and wide, as in days of yore." In leiu of flowers please send donations to charity of choice, or Southfork Student Body, 5225 Kelso Valley Rd. Weldon, CA 93283 www.bakersfield.com/obits
Published in Bakersfield Californian on October 22, 2010