Mary Alice Stover

DYER CHAPEL-Mary Alice Whitson Stover, age 93, a member of the Cookeville community, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at her home in Cookeville, Tennessee. Born on May 5, 1932, in Putnam County, Tennessee, Mary Alice was known for her warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit that touched the lives of those who knew her.

Mary Alice, a dedicated entrepreneur, cherished her role as the past owner of Whitson Distributors, which she managed alongside her late husband, Attrell Stover. Their partnership was not just in business but also in life, and they built a legacy that reflects their hard work and commitment to their community.

She graduated from Cookeville Central High School where she played basketball. Her love for learning was evident from an early age. Throughout her life, Mary Alice was actively involved in her church community, proudly attending Stevens Street Baptist Church, where she found comfort and camaraderie.

A lover of life’s simple pleasures, Mary Alice had an array of hobbies that brought her joy. She took delight in shopping, playing cards with her close friends, including Rosemary Foutch, Ruth Newman, Billie Jean Mason, and Sue Randolph. Her passion for gardening was reflected in her vast array of flowers, which brightened her home. She loved cooking and baking, often sharing her delicious creations with family and friends, a testament to her nurturing spirit.

Mary Alice was a devoted family member, leaving behind her cherished daughters, Karen (Charlie) Minnear and Sharon (Chris) Vaughn of Cookeville. She treasured her role as a grandmother to Kacy Jade Minnear, Charles Cody Minnear, and Allison McKenzie Felder, and was a proud great-grandmother to Benton Williams, Cambell Williams and Kellen Minnear. Additionally, she is remembered by her sister, Reba Whitson Holt of Lebanon, brother, Dillard Whitson of Gainesboro along with a host of nieces and nephews who adored her; special caregivers, Thelma Spears, Mary Hardy and Chante Henry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Everett Dillard and Allie Ellen Rector Whitson, as well as her sister, Ova Pearl Cunningham, and her brother, Cecil Whitson.

A graveside service will be held in her honor at Alex Byers Cemetery on Thursday, October 30, 2025, starting at 2:00 PM, a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate her remarkable life and loving spirit. 

Mary Alice Stover's legacy of love, kindness, and commitment to her family and community will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

Dyer Chapel Hooper-Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (931)526-7158. Share condolences and memories at www.dyerfh.com