Mary Hart Langham

December 4, 1937 – October 3, 2026

Mary Hart Langham, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2026, at the age of 88.

Mary was born on December 4, 1937, in Stovall, North Carolina. She grew up in the country, where she developed the warmth, strength, and down-to-earth spirit that remained a part of her throughout her life.

At the age of 19, Mary moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she began working for Eastern Airlines. It was there that she met the love of her life, Robert Langham. The two were married on December 6, 1958, and shared many wonderful years together until Robert's passing in June 2012.

In 1995, Mary moved to Maryville, where she began a long and successful career with Proffitt's Department Store, later becoming part of Belk. She became especially well known and loved for her work in alterations. Her official employment with the store began in May 1996, and she eventually became an alterations manager and, later, a sales associate.

Mary was much more than an employee—she was someone customers trusted. She was the go-to person for alterations, and customers often specifically asked to speak with Mary because, as they would say, “Mary knew what they needed.” She was always willing to stop what she was doing, walk out onto the sales floor, and personally help customers determine exactly what needed to be done.

Her dedication and talent were recognized throughout her career. Among her Belk honors were the 2018 Best of Belk Platinum Award, 2019 Consultant Award, and 2020 Pacesetter Award. She had also earned multiple Pacesetter recognitions during her years with Proffitt's. Even after retiring in October 2022, Mary couldn't stay away for long. She returned to work for the holiday season in November before retiring for a second and final time in January 2023.

After retirement, Mary moved to Gay, Georgia, where she lived with her daughter, Cindy, who lovingly cared for her until her passing.

Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children, Warren Langham, Randy Langham, and Cindy Perkins and her husband, Chuck; her grandchildren, Becca Batt and her husband, Jason; Cat Perkins and her fiancé, Kitch Best; Karen Mattox and her husband, Josh; and Corinna Langham; and her great-grandchildren, Freya Kung, Bennett Mattox, David Mattox, and James Mattox.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Langham, who passed away in June 2012.

Mary grew up in the country and, fittingly, spent her final year living in the country as well. From her beginnings in Stovall to her years in Atlanta, Maryville, and finally Gay, she lived a full and meaningful life surrounded by people who loved her.

Funeral/Memorial Service

A visitation will be held Tuesday, October 13th from 12:00 - 1:00PM at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service. Located at 1402 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, TN 37803.

The graveside service will take place Tuesday, October 13th at at 2:00 PM at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, located at 2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920

Mary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.