Mary Susan Love

Mary S. Love, affectionately known as "Mama Love," peacefully transitioned to eternal life on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, after a courageous 11-year journey with breast cancer. Mary was born on June 26, 1957, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, to Emma L. King and Stanley Francis Miller, Sr. and was raised in Columbus, Ohio, where she proudly graduated from Linden-McKinley High School. A proud member of the Mighty Marching Panther Majorettes, she carried her spirit of determination and grace throughout her life. Mary’s legacy of faith and resilience began in her childhood, nurtured by the unwavering love of her mother and grandmother, who taught her the importance of keeping her spiritual house in order. She cherished her relationship with God, and it was this foundation that guided every aspect of her life. 

In addition to her deep faith, Mary’s passion for education burned brightly. As a first-generation college student, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Accounting from The Ohio State University. Balancing two children, a full-time career, and community commitments, she continued her education and earned a Master of Taxation from Capital University Law and Graduate Center. Mary’s heart was always focused on others. A natural advocate, she poured her energy into making a positive impact wherever she could. As Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Columbus Urban League, she worked tirelessly to uplift her community. She served on the Board of Directors for the Affordable Housing Authority Trust for Columbus and Franklin County, was Treasurer of Greater Columbus Community Helping Hands, Inc., and Chief Financial Officer of the Columbus Neighborhood Health Center, Inc. 

While Mary was committed to making a difference in the community, it was her family that brought her the greatest joy. Her love for her children and grandchildren was boundless and pure. If you ever had the privilege of speaking with her, you would inevitably hear about the joy and pride she took in her grandchildren, whose love was a source of endless happiness. Mary also cherished the simple joy of being with her family, especially in the kitchen, where she created beautiful memories. Whether she was preparing one of her favorite dishes or baking her famous peach cobbler, those moments were filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of togetherness. Mary's life was a testament to faith, love, perseverance, and service. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched, in the love she shared so freely, and in the lessons she taught through her unwavering strength and boundless kindness. 

"Mama Love" may no longer walk among us, but her love, spirit, and example will remain forever in our hearts. Mary is survived by her beloved children Antoine Hayes of Columbus, OH, Kimberly (Justin) Scott of Blacklick, OH; grandchildren, Jakai, Aamir and Parker; sisters, Charlene Floyd of Columbus, OH and Kathy (Dewayne) Baskin of Indianapolis, IN; brother, Carl Brent (Sharon) Miller from Hopkinsville, KY; nieces, Renee (Antonio) Jordan, Twylla Smith and Senequa Claybrook; nephew, Gino Smith; great nieces and nephews; and many other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Emma L. King; father, Stanley Francis Miller, Sr.; step-father, Herbert H. King; brothers, Stanley Francis Miller, Jr., and Tony E. Miller, Sr.; grandmother, Susie E. Shelton, and grandfather, Frank Shelton.