DURHAM: The earthly spirit of Mary Stewart Manasse has left us and is now with The Great Spirit which is as one with all things; past, present and future. Her husband, George Henry Manasse and their son, Daniel Ephraim Manasse miss her deeply, but rejoice in our memories and our everlasting love for Mary.

Mary Stewart was born in Raleigh on July 30, 1943 to Mary Stewart Minter and John D. Minter. She had one brother, John D. Minter (Jack). They all have left us. She has many cousins scattered throughout the United States, George’s cousin in Brazil, as well as many close friends she made while living in New York and California.

Mary graduated from Hood College and earned a MSW from NYU’s School of Social Work. Until the birth of Daniel, she worked as a psychiatric social worker in the South Bronx. Mary loved traveling, art, cinema and music, especially jazz. However, her life was dedicated to her family and social justice. In 2012, she was invited to the White House Christmas Party for her help in passing The Affordable Care Act. In North Carolina, her time in working to register voters was overwhelming. She will be missed. To all who wish to commemorate her, a donation in her memory to the Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104 would be greatly appreciated.

A gathering of friends to celebrate her life and share memories will be held at a later date.