Mary Ann Truitt Shields passed peacefully, surrounded by family, on May 7, 2023 at Market Street of Palm Coast Memory Care after living courageously with Alzheimer's Disease for over a decade.

Mary Ann was born in Wilmington, Delaware on December 25, 1948 and was one of eight siblings. She was pre-deceased by her parents, Joseph R. Truitt and Margaret Truitt (Bryner) as well as two siblings, Joanne Hartnett and Peggy Ferver. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Joseph M. Shields, Jr., her daughter Laura R. Shields (Kevin Cooney), son Joseph M. Shields, III (Wendy) and twin granddaughters, River Shields and Willow Shields. Mary Ann is also survived by five siblings, Joe Truitt (Jean), Kathy Brenner (Jacob), Patricia Mousley, Barbara Beckmeyer (Michael Waldo), John Truitt (Debbie), as well as many nieces and nephews.

Among many accomplishments in her life, Mary Ann was most proud of being a mother to Laura and Joe. A healthy living advocate, she was an aerobics instructor, a member of a Delaware food co-op in the 70s, and a yoga practitioner. She worked in medical billing for many years and helped people sort out billing issues even in retirement. She was also an excellent decorator, gardener (she was an herb club member while living in Dallas, Texas, and a Flagler County Master Gardener for over 10 years), avid birdwatcher and member of the Audubon Society, and nine-hole golfer. She was a gifted craftsperson and, of course, a semi-famous "Tussie Mussie" maker, which she provided to friends, acquaintances, and others to commemorate special occasions and sentiments. She brought joy to many people's lives.

The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to the management and staff at Market Street Palm Coast for their excellent and loving care of Mary Ann for these last three years and nine months, with special thanks to Nurses Keisha, Connie, AJ, Tiffany, and Brittney, and Resident Care Specialists Judy, Lawanda, Layla, Ariel, Sam, Chanel, Jennie, and Allie. They would also like to express their gratitude to Portia, Tina, Kerith, and Diane from Halifax Hospice. Thank you.

A celebration of Mary Ann's life will take place in Wilmington, Delaware in late June. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary Ann's name to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America www.alzfdn.org.