Family · Memory · Journey
September 23, 1934 – June 17, 2025
Beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Grandmother — Forever in our Hearts
On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Mary Anderson Chunn, aged 90, departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love and a beautiful life that touched many. Born on September 23, 1934, in Nashville, TN, Mary's journey was marked by academic excellence and a deep commitment to education and faith.
Valedictorian of Hendersonville High School's class of 1952, Mary's intellectual prowess was evident early on. Her leadership as class secretary and the honor of being voted "most likely to succeed" were just the beginning of a life full of achievements. At David Lipscomb College, she found her soulmate, Gary Chunn, leading to a loving marriage in 1954. They recently celebrated 70 years of marriage on December 31, 2024.
Mary's legacy is carried on by her three sons, Dr. Stanley Chunn, Dr. Kevin Chunn, and Brian Chunn, each born in a different city as the family journeyed through Gary's electrical engineering career. The family eventually settled in Huntsville, Alabama, in 1962, where Mary's passion for education led her to earn a degree in Elementary Education from Alabama A&M.
As an elementary school teacher, Mary touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression that extended beyond the classroom and into lifelong friendships. Her dedication to teaching children's Bible classes for over 60 years reflected her unwavering faith and love for her community.
Mary's accolades included the "Best Teacher of the Year" at Madison Academy. Her zest for life shone through her love for entertaining and traveling, which she pursued with vigor until the age of 80.
Preceded in death by her parents, Goldie and Alex Anderson, her sister, Nancy Scruggs, and her brother Lucien Anderson. Mary's spirit is celebrated by her seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who will continue to cherish her memory and the values she instilled in them.
Mary's pride in her sons' active church involvement is a testament to her enduring influence and the strong foundation of faith she built within her family. Her life was a testament to the power of education, the strength of faith, and the warmth of a loving family. Mary Anderson Chunn will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the remarkable woman she was.
“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
A celebration of Mary's life was held on June 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel at Crieve Hall Church of Christ (4806 Trousdale Drive, Nashville, TN 37220). Mary was cremated, and her ashes were interred at Hendersonville Memorial Gardens, laid to rest on the land where she was raised, ground that once belonged to her family.
Celebration of Life — June 23, 2025 — Crieve Hall Church of Christ, Nashville, TN
Videography by Steve Scruggs
Videos celebrating her life — play at your own pace, share freely with family.
A full celebration of Mary's life, gathered together in her memory.
The memorial service, recorded for those who could not be there in person.
A slideshow of photos spanning her life — from early years to her final seasons.
Moments, faces, and places that made up the world of Mary Chunn.