Mary Elizabeth Baytops

January 22, 1931 - October 27, 2020

Mary Elizabeth Candia Baytops was born on January 22, 1931, in Westfield, New Jersey. She transitioned on October 27, 2020. She was born to Ruth and Howard Candia, but Mary along with some of her siblings was raised in Stevensville by their grandmother Lizzie Brooks. Mary’s siblings are Catherine Lazier, Thelma “Sista” Gardner, Reitha O’Neal, and James Moore. Preceding her in death were Thomas Candia, Martha Davis (twin), and Doris Candia. Mary received her early education in the schools of King and Queen, graduating from the King & Queen Training School in 1951. After graduation, Mary married James Larry Baytops in 1952. To this marriage were born five children- Larry, Ernest (Delva), Wayne (Cheryl), Bobby (Sheila), and Alicia. She has seven grandchildren Alexis Brown, Adrienne Paul, Devin Marrow, Brandon Baytops, Brandon Marrow, Brian Baytops, and Raven Baytops, and fourteen great-grandchildren. Mary also had many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. As a young woman, she was a member of a winning softball team. Later in life, Mary was a great cook, she was known for her homemade rolls, macaroni & cheese, corn puddings, cakes, and indescribable SWEET POTATOE PIES! She enjoyed raising houseplants, gardening, and arts and crafts. She found great joy in feeding her family and anyone who stopped by the house. She especially enjoyed the holidays. For a number of years, she was the community Avon Lady. In addition to other work, Mary and her sisters also worked for a number of years at the Whitehall Camp in Walkerton. At an early age, Mary was baptized and became an active member of Wayland Baptist Church. Before long, Mary became the church’s pianist, a role in which she served for over forty years. In her role as pianist, Mary also shared her talents at Gethsemane Baptist Church and many other churches throughout the area. Many were so familiar with Mrs. Baytops at the piano and knew they could count on her to provide music unselfishly. One young musician in the area said of her “Mrs. Baytops is legendary’ as a musician and her music was loved by many.” At Wayland she was also on the Missionary Board and frequently sponsored programs to raise money for the church, she also served on the Homecoming Committee. During Mrs. Baytops leadership on the Homecoming Committee, Wayland was well known for its outdoor feasts on Homecoming Sundays. People came from near and far to participate because of the tasty food, welcoming spirit, and family like environment at Wayland. Her love and spirit will be missed by everyone in the community. A graveside service will be held 1PM Friday, November 6, 2020 at Wayland Baptist Church, 10864 The Trail, Stevensville, VA 23161. A walk-through viewing will be held from 5pm – 7pm Thursday, November 5, 2020 at Vincent Funeral Home, 417 11th Street, West Point, VA 23181