Mary Arlene Steward, affectionately known as Monkey, Miss Mary, Nee Nee, Mary Mary, and Grand-Mary, was born on August 17, 1942 to the late Willie C. Huffman and Louise Goode Huffman in Birmingham, Alabama.   Early in her life the family moved to Courtland, Alabama.  In her adult year, Mary moved with her family to DeFuniak Springs, Florida and then to Ft. Walton Beach, where she lived until her demise.  Mary confessed her hope in Christ at an early age and joined Jackson Chapel C.M.E. Church.  Her hope was rekindled at Gregg Chapel A.M.E. where she was a faithful member and dedicated her service and support through her work with the Women’s Missionary Society and the Stewardess Board.  Mary demonstrated God’s purpose through cooking and spent 20 plus years as the Chef at the Hurlburt Fld. Officers Club.   She continued her passion for cooking and feeding people wherever possible. One sister preceded Mary, the late Elizabeth J. Willingham.  Mary leaves to cherish her life four children, Michael A. Steward, Jeffrey M. Steward of Courtland, Alabama; Anita F. Steward of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; and Anthony L. Steward (Brenda), of Troy, Illinois.  Three brothers; Willie J. Huffman and James A. Huffman (Patricia) of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, Lawrence W. (Gloria) of Town Creek, Alabama; two sisters Geraldine Evans of Buffalo, New York and Deborah A. Weaver (Dewey) of DeFuniak Springs, Florida; fourteen (14) grandchildren; thirteen (13) great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives; one special Godchild Miles Maximus Thomas and a very special friend, Derek Milton.

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