Mary Lorene Dujay

Mary Lorene Dujay, née Gilliland, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, in Bryan, Texas, surrounded by the love of her devoted husband and only son. She was 76 years old.

Born on January 26, 1950, in Greenwood, Mississippi, Mary lived a life defined by unwavering faith, boundless kindness, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone she met. She was the beloved wife of Ronn Dujay, a devoted mother to her son, Ethan Dujay, and a treasured sister, aunt, and friend.

Mary never met a stranger. Her warm smile, genuine interest in others, and infectious laughter made everyone feel welcome. Whether sharing a conversation, offering encouragement, or simply listening, she had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved.

Her faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. A faithful member of First Baptist Church in Buffalo, Mary was there whenever the doors were open. She loved her church family and served in numerous capacities over the years, finding great joy in worship, fellowship, and caring for others. Her faith was not simply something she professed—it was reflected daily in the patience, grace, and compassion she extended to everyone she encountered.

Mary often reminded those she loved to “have patience and give grace.” She believed everyone deserved kindness because we never truly know the burdens another person may be carrying. Those words became the way she lived her life and remain one of the greatest gifts she leaves behind.

She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—playing cards with family and friends, spending time with those she loved, and enthusiastically trying her hand at gardening. Though her flowers didn’t always flourish, her willingness to keep trying became one of the many endearing qualities that made her uniquely Mary. She approached life with optimism, humility, and the ability to laugh at herself, creating cherished memories and countless smiles along the way.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Ronn Dujay; her cherished son, Ethan Dujay; her beloved sister, Carolyn Tomko (Randy); and her nephews, Matthew Tomko and Joseph Tomko. She also leaves behind a large extended family, dear friends, and a church family whose lives were forever enriched by her love and kindness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hilda Pauline and Homer Gilliland, whose memories she carried close to her heart throughout her life.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mary’s life during visitation on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M., at Walters’ Buffalo Funeral Home in Buffalo, Texas. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2 P.M., at First Baptist Church in Buffalo, followed by a celebration reception.

Mary’s legacy will not be measured by the things she owned or the accomplishments she achieved, but by the lives she touched. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her steadfast faith, her joyful laughter, and her constant reminder to live with patience and extend grace. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she shared and the example she set will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her for generations to come.

Final arrangements are under the direction of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.