Mary Francis Eileen Edwards, age 76, died Wednesday at her home in Bostic, NC. A native of St. Louis, MO, she was the daughter of Ralph and Minnie Francis Edwards. She is survived by two sisters, Joan Dickey of St. Louis, MO, and Eithel Barkauskas of Chicago, IL. Mary also leaves behind her longtime partner of 28 years, Laura Bishop. Mary had a kind and gentle spirit and appreciated life.  She loved nature and enjoyed traveling, especially to see the fall foliage in the mountains or to walk along Bethany Beach.  She was very devoted to her friends and family and enjoyed spending time with those she cared for.  She had pets for most of her adult life and was particularly attached to her schnauzer, Muffin.  She enjoyed cooking, baking, playing cards, and she loved to laugh. Mary had a strong faith and was thankful for her many blessings.  She will be greatly missed by the loved ones she leaves behind.