Mary Joseph Silva Hautala met her Saviour face to face on February 18th, 2012. She was born on December 14th, 1931, in Brunswick, Ga., and was the eldest of the 6 children born to William Joseph and Mary Catherine Rodrigues Silva. Mary attended St. Francis Xavier School through 8th grade, then graduated from Glynn Academy in 1949. She was a lifelong member of St. Francis Xavier Church, and a member of the St. Francis Xavier Church Choir for 40 years. In 1944, at age 13, Mary started working in her parents' store, "Silva Seafood," at 1924 Norwich Street in Brunswick. There, 6 years later, she met Hans H. Hautala, for whom the meeting was love at first sight. They married on September 23rd of 1951, and were happily married for fifty-six years. They made their home in Northwood Estates, on Hautala Drive. During the 1950s, Mary helped her husband and father-in-law to run their small farm and home business, selling eggs, dairy, and produce locally. She was a loving homemaker, and soon, mother to their three daughters. Hans was employed full time at Brunswick Pulp and Paper company, but was a jack of all trades. So when Hans decided to add a new home business, Mary joined him -as bookkeeper for Northwood Builders and Developers. Mary studied cosmetology and became licensed as a Master of Cosmetology in 1964, and gained her teaching license in 1965. She taught cosmetology at Brunswick Beauty College at 1624 Reynolds Street, until 1969, then opened her own shop at home, and served her customers and family for many years. Mrs.Hautala was a member of the TOPS club, The 49'ers, Highland Park Club, Golden Harvest and Young-at-Heart. She volunteered at St.Vincent DePaul Thrift Store, and acted with The Island Players. She was known in our community for her acts of kindness and encouragement She was often called "The Birthday Queen" because, over the years, she won more than 50 cakes for friends and family through the radio station, Sunny 103, and often delivered them in person. She supported various charities faithfully, was a sincere advocate for anyone ill-treated or less fortunate, and was active in raising support for worthy causes. Once retired, the Hautalas traveled in the US, and to other countries, including Finland where Hans was born, and Portugal, the home country of Mary's parents. Hans and Mary were lifelong Glynn County residents. They made and treasured many dear friends over the years. Mary was a lady of remarkable character, honest confidence, and charming personality. She taught her children and grandchildren by example, to love others, trust the Lord, work hard and do what is right. She was a pianist, singer, writer, a skilled seamstress, and more. Her hands blessed others all of her life. She had a quick wit, a lovely sense of humor and a sweet spirit. She will be tenderly remembered and very sorely missed by the many who love her. She is survived by two brothers; Bill Silva, and Denny (Lou Ann) Silva, and three daughters; Shirley Joyner, Helen (Michael) Fowler, and Sylvia (John) Yianaridis, 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 4 nieces and 4 nephews. Preferred Charities and Donations The family wishes to extend special thanks to Sears Manor Nursing Home and Heartland Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Mary's honor to Sears, Heartland Hospice, or the church or charitable organization of your choice. Visitation and Services Visitation will be held at Brunswick Memorial Park on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The Homegoing service will be held at Brunswick Memorial Park on Thursday, February 23rd, at 2 PM, with the Reverend Burt Cramer officiating. Friends are invited to join the family, in celebration of Mary's joyful and accomplished life. Pall Bearers are Billy Fouche, Michael Fowler, Jason Joyner, Michael Wells, Buddy Yianaridis, and John Yianaridis. Honorary pall bearers are George Vieira and Pat Bernard.