Sparta, TN - Mrs. Mary Ruth Carr Austin, age 68, of Sparta, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026, at her residence.

Mary was born May 13, 1957, in Sparta, TN, to the late William Ed and Betty Jean Rice Carr. As a florist at Unique Designs, her passion was spreading joy to others with her flower arrangements. She enjoyed traveling with her husband all across the country and helping him with his automotive transportation business. When her health did not allow her to visit friends at the funeral home, she always let families know she was thinking about them by leaving an online condolence. Mary was a friend to many, and "Nana" or "Nana Mary" to a very special few.

In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her son, Jay Denny; sister, Judy Ann Carr Young and husband Jerry; brothers, Gene, Sam and Bob Carr.

Surviving family members include her husband, Danny Austin; brother, Doug Carr and wife Denice; sister, Teresa Hargis; stepdaughter, Jessica Stewart and husband Jeff; grandchildren, Macey Stewart and Evey Stewart; special friend, Teresa Hall and her children; special friend, Susan Kilby; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted 1 p.m. Friday, March 13, from the Chapel of Hunter Funeral Home. In honor of Mary's request, she will be cremated following her funeral service. The family will receive friends after 11 a.m. Friday at Hunter Funeral Home. Bro. Danny Roberts and Bro. Scott Henderson will officiate.