Mary Elizabeth Collins Loftis

Mary Elizabeth Collins Loftis, 92, transcended into eternal peace on November 17, 2025, while in the presence of loving family members. A native of Grays Creek, Cumberland County, NC, Lib grew up in the mill village of Cumberland, NC, and attended Hope Mills School where she graduated in 1951. While there, she met her future husband, Ronald, who soon became the dearest love of her life. These two high school sweethearts married on April 12, 1952. Together they formed a loving family that continues to draw strength and character from their powerful examples of love, faith, and grace.

After becoming the mother of four children, Lib returned to school when Ronald experienced a compelling call to Christian Ministry. She earned an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Pembroke State College (now UNCP) in 1968 and began teaching sixth-graders, later teaching Language Arts in Middle School. She earned a Master’s Degree in Reading Education in 1991, also from UNCP, and became certified as an instructor in the Laubach Way of Reading. With affection and skill, she taught hundreds of school children and adults to read English as a first or second language, often reflecting on her students’ joy of discovering the world of literature.

Lib was a devoted follower of Christ and gave of herself in the congregations where Ronald pastored, where they worshipped after his retirement, and in the community at large. She led in music, women’s missions, Sunday School, Bible education, and reading education. In 1977, both Ronald and Lib were commissioned as Home Missionaries of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through the New South River Baptist Association, they worked with language churches, welcoming newcomers into the community and helping them navigate a fresh life. On multiple occasions, she served as Worthy Matron of the Hope Mills Chapter of The Order of Eastern Star. Throughout their lives together, Lib and Ronald often offered financial assistance to students who needed a small boost. In every aspect and opportunity, Lib served with care and grace.

Blessed with an enormous capacity for love and a vibrant, welcoming spirit, Lib never met a stranger. Her hugs, acceptance, and encouragement produced a warm and secure environment. She initiated each daughter- or son-in-law with an embrace and a sincere “Welcome to the family.” The home she and Ronald built together was always open. Their huge family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren congregated at every opportunity. Nothing was more exciting than a trip to Grandma’s where security, love, food, adventure, and cousins abounded. As well, their home was often a respite and refuge to friends, visiting guests, and those needing temporary shelter. All who entered feasted on Lib’s famous pound cake.

Lib was known by a variety of names, roles in which she excelled. Formally named Elizabeth, she grew up as Libby, became Aunt Libby and Lib as an adult, then Mrs. Loftis and Mom, and finally Grandma. “Grandma” was her clear favorite. In her later years, she preferred to be called Grandma by children and adults alike. She would introduce herself by name then explain, “but you can call me Grandma.” Most did.

Lib was the daughter of Glennie Hampton Collins and Daisy Norris Collins who predeceased her. She survived the loss of all of her siblings and her beloved husband and cohort of 72 years, the Reverend Dr. Ronald W. Loftis, Sr. None knew the depth of her devotion, service, and compassion more than he did. Theirs is a love story for eternity.

Lib is survived by her sons Ron Loftis, Jr., (Debbie), Michael Loftis (Ann), Stephen Loftis (Lee), and daughter Lisa Loftis Obermiller. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Wilson (Holly), Benjamin (Amanda), Elizabeth (Justin), Taylor (Maureen), Van (Lauren), Rhys (Elizabeth), Holly, Matthew, and Colin, as well as 14 great-grandchildren – Garrett, Carter, Connor, Frank, Samuel, James, Henry, Ella, Florence, Bennett, Ezra, Louise, Dorothy, and Asa. Among the extended family of survivors are her cherished sister-in-law, Sally Collins, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family is deeply grateful to the medical and support staffs of UNC Pardee Hospital, the Life Care Center, and Four Seasons Hospice, all of Hendersonville, NC, for skilled, gentle, and genuine care of Grandma during her time of transition.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 pm on January 3, 2026, at First Baptist Church on Anderson Street in Fayetteville, NC. The family will receive friends before the service from 11:00 – 11:45 in Williamson Hall at the Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Fayetteville on Anderson Street, Four Seasons Hospice of Hendersonville, NC, or to a charity of one’s choice.

Pinecrest Funeral & Cremation Services of Fayetteville, NC, is assisting the family.