Marylouise Isbell

June 28, 1939 - December 26, 2021

LIFE REFLECTIONS Marylouise J. Isbell" To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven." Ecclesiastes 3:1 A Time To Be Born: Mary Louise James was born in Kingstree, South Carolina on June 28, 1939, to her her loving parents, Reverend Dozier T. James and Rosa Lee Porcher James. A Time for Education: Mary, affectionately known to her family as "Tedda" or "Sister", started her education in the public schools of Williamsburg County schools. Upon graduating from Tomlinson High School, Mary attended South Carolina State University where she received her Bachelor's degree in Education at South Carolina State University. She went on to North Carolina Central University where she received her Master of Library Science. Mary continued her educational pursuits by obtaining an additional thirty credits after her Master's degree. A Time to Make an Impact: Mary was a part of history. As a college student, she participated in a protest and civil rights march with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1960. She vividly recalls being water hosed three times and being arrested when she was involved in protest marches. Sister Isbell proudly remembers marching with a young James Clyburn who went on to become the Majority Whip in Congress and currently serves as a Representative from South Carolina. Mary was proud of her moment in history and continued to stand up for that in which she believed. A Time to Love: On April 3, 1971, Mary married Phillip Leon Isbell in Washington, DC. They lived in Washington, DC until the birth of their daughter, Melissa Lynette Isbell, on October 30, 1972. Mary, Phillip, and Melissa eventually moved to Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Phillip passed away that same year. Later, Mary added to her family by opening her heart and her home to Candice Pettus and Justin Isbell. Her world extended further with addition of her three beautiful grandchildren, Rickiyia, Chloe, and Joel, who she cared for and loved deeply. A world traveler, Mary loved seeing the world, with her adventures taking her to six continents. She especially enjoyed traveling with her dear sister, Lillie. A Time for Family: As the eldest daughter of 13 children, Mary took pride in family gatherings and special occasions. An avid scrap booker, she created beautiful photo books for many family members. After retirement she dedicated a much of her time creating amazing preschool educational opportunities for her grand niece and nephew, twins, James & Jasyln. She cherished her family. Mary's close-knit family was one of the things dearest to her heart. A Time to Labor: Mary retired with more than 40 years of service in the professional field of Library Science. She worked as a Library Media Specialist in the Prince George's County School system. The majority of her years of service was at Gwynn Park Middle School. Mary also worked with the PG County Memorial Library and the Evening Academy at Allen Chapel AME Church. She was a dedicated member of the Friends of Oxen Hill Library. She continued to keep herself busy by volunteering and participating with the Maryland Retired Teachers. In May of 2017, she was inducted into the Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. She was a member of the NAACP and numerous organizations. In addition, she is a member of Alpha Delta Kappa, International Honorary Sorority for Women Educators. Mary was an active alumna of South Carolina State University. A Time to Serve: Marylouise has been a member of Allen Chapel AME church for over 40 years. She was never a seat warmer. She lent a helping hand to anyone in need. Mary has served as the Recording Secretary of the Allen Chapel AME Lay Organization. She was a member of Stewardess Board #3, Usher Board #2, the Sanctuary Choir, the Jr./Sr. Ministry and a dedicated member of the Sunday School Adult Forum Class. Throughout her membership in all of these organizations, she served in leadership roles where her spirit and her love for the Lord has let her lead with great strength. In addition to the service of the church, Mary was a former Director of the Allen Chapel AME Church Evening Academy. The Master called and Marylouise answered on Sunday, December 26, 2021, at 5:35pm. She lived a life full of service and she is now safe in His arms. Mary sent out messages every day to a host of family and friends to spread cheer each day even when she was hurting. Her love and her heart were unwavering. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Philip L. Isbell; her parents, Rev. & Mrs. Dozier T. James; four brothers, Dozier T. James, George E. James, Lloyd A. James, Napoleon P. James; and one sister, E. Roberta Ramsey. She leaves to cherish her memories and celebrate her life; her beloved and devoted children, Melissa Isbell, Candice Pettus and Justin Isbell; grandchildren, Rickiyia and Chloe Hill, and Joel Isbell; four sisters, Henrietta James Peeples (Edward), Rosa Lee James Graulau, Lillie B. James, Daisy James Echols (Isaiah); two brothers, Rev. Franklin D. James (Sheila), Ernest B. James (Michelle); sister-in-law, Susan James; her godchildren, Franklin Echols and Angela Peeples Brown; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She will be missed by a community of neighbors, her church family who loved her and her many friends and co-workers who will truly miss her presence.