Dr. Mary Evelyn Holden Ayala

Dr. Mary Evelyn Holden Ayala, 65, of Potts Camp, formerly of Portland, OR., died June 12, 2026, at Methodist Olive Branch Hospital. Dr. Mary was an educator, entrepreneur and business developer. She taught at the high school and college level, before becoming the Executive Director of a Child Care Agency, where she founded a Transition School for foster children. She was a mentor and visionary for both youth and adults and a staunch advocate for human rights.

Graveside services will held at 12 noon on July 11 at Reids Gift Cemetery in Potts Camp. Rev. Anthony Marion will officiate. J.F. Brittenum and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. She leaves a daughter, Mercedes Garcia of Holly Springs; sister, Sheila Holden of Portland; brothers, Phillip K. Holden of Carbondale, Ill., Joseph E. Holden of Portland; and two grandchildren.