"The Passing of a Legend" from the heart of Scherrie Payne

2/10/2021

Scherrie Payne & Mary Wilson -October 2018

Mary Wilson. She was so many wonderful things to so many... A Supreme, a best-selling author, a humanitarian and civil-rights activist, a mother, grandmother, a sister, a cousin, -- a friend! Mary did it all and did it all so well! Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts and minds of fans all over the world. From that young girl in Detroit, she went on to become part of a group that took the music industry and then, the nations by storm. They became Superstars, Legends of Motown that helped put the name of Detroit on the map!! They were a first-class act! The Supremes became role-models for so many Black girls and made them realize they could achieve the heights; anything was possible regardless of one's race.

The stage was Mary's home; she lit it up! She was a natural and showed it. Audiences loved her vivaciousness, slick dances moves accompanied by her sexy voice and bright smile. Whether she was just singing "oohs" and "aahs" in the background, or, delivering a tender solo, she was powerful... The Supremes was her life and it was obvious that she enjoyed every moment of it. Mary was relentless and hard-working and never slowed down or gave up on her goals, her dreams... Mary never saw the world through blinded-eyes. She was an optimist, always striving for that next plateau, and, achieved it... I so admired her for that! Mary was the consummate performer, entertainer.

Mary has left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone who ever met or knew her. I, for one, shall forever be indebted to her... I'm so proud of all she accomplished. An original member of the most famous girl-group in the world! An icon never to be forgotten! Mary Wilson! A legend in her own time!... Heaven has welcomed in another Supreme angel! My deepest condolences go out to her family... May God watch over you during this time of tremendous pain and sorrow and comfort you...

Blessings,
Scherrie Payne of The Supremes