WOODLAND, NC – Mary Anne Ricks Bolton, lovingly known as Gaga, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2023, at the age of 83. She was born on November 5, 1939, in Conway, North Carolina, to her parents Garland Ricks and Helen Sears Ricks.
Mary Anne had a sweet, gentle spirit and was a devoted member of Woodland Methodist Church. Her strong faith and love for God were evident in every aspect of her life. After graduating from high school, she pursued higher education at East Carolina University.
As a homemaker, Mary Anne centered her life around her beloved family, considering her children and grandchildren to be the greatest treasures in her life. She found immense joy in spending time with them and created countless cherished memories. She adored her role as Gaga, a name affectionately given to her by her grandchildren and friends.
In addition to her commitment to her family, Mary Anne was a true Patriot and dedicated herself to serving her community. She actively participated in the Board of Elections and took pride in playing a part in the process.
Mary Anne is preceded in death by her father, Garland Ricks; her mother, Helen Sears Ricks; her loving husband, James “Huck” C. Bolton, III; her brothers, Steve Ricks and Billy Ricks.
She will be forever remembered and dearly missed by her surviving family, including her two sons: James “Cener” Bolton, IV (Terri) and Billy Bolton, her daughter Rachel Bolton Little; her five grandsons: Jack Bolton, Blake Bolton, Ben Bolton, Will Bolton, and Matt Little (Gigi); her three granddaughters: Brittany Graham (James), Haley Mallegni (Toby), and Ivey Little Lee (Sam); and her two great-granddaughters, Junie Mallegni and Erin Graham.
A gathering of family and friends to celebrate Mary Anne’s life will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023, from 6:00 pm until 7:30 pm at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Rich Square, NC.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to ECU Health and Hospice, 521 East Myers Street, Ahoskie, NC 27910, or online by clicking here. This will enable others to receive the same compassionate care that Mary Anne was fortunate to have in her final days.
May Mary Anne Ricks Bolton rest in eternal peace, knowing that she touched the lives of many with her kindness, devotion, and beautiful spirit. Her memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration to those who were privileged to know her.
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Rich Square Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Bolton family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.
Many beautiful memories of Mary Anne . Her smile always lifted me. She was definitely a blessing to all lives she touched. Praying for all her family and friends. 🌹♥️👣👣✝️
Linda Henry Coffield
Thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary Anne . I am so sorry for your loss. May God give you peace and comfort at this difficult time.
The Boyce family is so sorry for your loss. We will continue to pray for strength and comfort during your time of grief. Mrs. Mary Anne was a wonderful woman.
The Conway high school class of 1958 was a special class. We were a family. We loved each other and still do even when we’re miles apart. We care about each other. As a member of that class I know that to be true. Mary Anne’s passing is a great loss for us She will be missed. I won’t forget her sweet spirit and wonderful smile that lighted up her face – and ours. I hold dear the memories I have of her friendship. I wish I could tell you how much she meant to me and how many thoughts I have had of her over the years. I loved Mary Anne. I regret that I didn’t do a better job of keeping in touch. You, her family, were so lucky to have her as a part of your family and I lift you up in my thoughts and prayers. Hold tight to the many memories that you have. Share the stories that the youngest will know of what a wonderful person she was. We were all blessed to know her.
I wish I could be present with you tonight at the visitation – but know that I will certainly be there in spirit. May God now bless Mary Anne’s heavenly spirit as she is reunited with her loved ones. ❤️
Mary Anne was not only my classmate but also a dear friend. Memories include high school years at Conway where we cheered together and college days at East Carolina. Both she and Huck were in our wedding and we continued to stay in touch over the years.
To her children and grandchildren, I know precious memories will help in the days ahead. I will always cherish the memories of a friend who was like family to me.
My condolences to the Bolton family. May God continue to strengthen each of you.
So, So Sorry! She Was One gentle Soul and a friend with sweet gentleness about her! She was ALWAYS ready to listen With Open Arms and Comforting Words.
Prayers for the family. May she rest in peace and the family find peace in their hearts.
Mary Anne was a dear friend. She made everyone feel special with her soft gentle voice. Thoughts and prayers are with you..
Rachel, so sorry to hear of your loss. She was such a sweet sweet lady. I know you will miss her but hold on to those memories and I am praying for and the family to have peace and comfort.