Mary Nell Redding Wright was born in Albany, Georgia on June 14, 1956, to the late Cornell Redding Sr. and Mary Lois Bryd Redding.
She received her primary and secondary education in the Dougherty County School System. Throughout school, Mary was a very considerate, attentive young lady with a yearning to be of service and help others. Her caring nature and one-of-a-kind personality made her a favorite among teachers and fellow students.

A very conscientious and persistent individual, Mary Nell held fast to her belief in professional work ethics and responsibilities while employed at AT&T and Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. In later years, she accepted employment with Georgia Pacific where she consistently pursued excellence in her duties and responsibilities until her retirement. Throughout her career, Mary never shied away from a challenge and always gave her BEST. Mary Nell saw the beauty in all things; accepted everyone for who they were; and openly welcomed them into her heart and home. She was a giver—always willing to give to others and never expected anything in return. Mary Nell had the voice of an angel and loved to sing. She was a consummate virtual gamer who loved to play Bingo with her daughter, Stacie. Mary was a phenomenal mother, an extraordinary grandmother and great grandmother, a wonderful sister and fantastic aunt, a committed cousin, and the greatest friend anyone could ever hope for. Her kind, gentle spirit will always have a very special place in the hearts of all who knew and loved her dearly.

On August 19, 2023, Mary Nell transitioned from this earthly life to eternal peace and rest. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved stepmother, Ethel Holsey Redding.

Cherished memories of a life well lived will forever remain with her loving daughters, Stephanie Wright Walker (Reco) and Stacie Wright Thomas (Travis); five siblings, Brenda Washington (Bob), Barbara Redding Williams, Tamara Redding Kennon (Ronald), Willie C. Redding, and Cornell Redding, Jr.; two special friends, Michael Porter and Henri Taylor -Green; grandchildren,
Erin Sibley Williams (Jameel), Erik Sibley, Erial Nelson, Kenneth Zachary III, Christa Ransom, and Camryn Ransom; eleven great grandchildren; one aunt, Trudy Cloud; two very special Nieces, Andrea "Menard" Hall and Whitney Williams -Johnson (Shamir); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.