Mary Estelle Firth Altaffer, 97, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at George Regional Hospital. She was born on December 14, 1928, to the late William Henry Ford and Lucy Etta Wimbish Ford.

Mary lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith, family, and love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy was spending time with her family. Whether gathered for meals, celebrations, or simple moments together, Mary cherished every opportunity to be surrounded by those she loved.

A woman of strong faith, Mary loved God deeply and lived her life guided by that faith. Throughout her life, and especially in her final moments, she found comfort and strength in prayer and trusted fully in the promise of eternal life.

She is survived by her loving husband of 30 years, Harlan Altaffer; her daughters, Sunny (Charlie) Agent and Cookie (Everett) Archey; grandchildren, Allison Davis, Jamie Agent, Daniel White, Rachel Hudson, Jodi Carlisle, Jason Agent, and Curtis Archey; 24 great-grandchildren; 20 great-great-grandchildren; and her sister, Voncile Stokes.

She was preceded in death by her first husband of 42 years, Enos Firth; her daughter, Pam Firth; her grandson, Wesley Agent; and her siblings, Henry Ford, Louis Ford, Harold Ford, and Erlyne Cantrell.

Mary's life was a blessing, and her love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness."
— 2 Timothy 4:7–8

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00AM on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Sigler Funeral Home, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS 39452. Burial will follow in Magnolia Baptist Church cemetery, 2400 Magnolia Baptist Church Road, Vancleave, MS 39565

Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00AM on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Sigler Funeral Home, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS 39452.

Sigler Funeral Home, 601-947-3112 , www.siglerfuneral.com, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS, is in charge of arrangements.