Mary L. Scott was the first child born to the union of Robert and Nellie Damper. She was born in Shuqualak, Mississippi on September 19, 1925. At the age of 4 years old, Mary and family moved to East St. Louis, Illinois.

She confessed Christ in May 1939 and was baptized by Rev. J. L. McBride, Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church. She attended Attucks School and graduated from Lincoln High in January 1944. She attended SIU for one year. She met her husband, James at Lincoln and after his 3 years in the Navy, they were married.

After moving to Fireworks Station, she moved her membership to Pilgrim Rest Baptist in April 1952. She joined the Usher Board and Gospel Chorus. She served as director of B.T.U. for four years. As she matured in age, she eventually joined the Mother's Board. Due to health she was sidelined from the Usher Board (her great love), but he continued to support if spiritually and financially.

Mary was employed as a caseworker for public aid for 20 years. After retirement, she did volunteer work for Unity Hospice, Red Cross, Surrogate Parent, Foster Grandparent and member of RSVP. She was a licensed foster parent for 5 years.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Nellie Damper; one sister, Rachel Alexander; three brothers, Robert Damper Jr., Eugene Damper and Willie James Damper and spouse, James Scott. She leaves to mourn her homegoing a daughter, Cassandra Emerson of Denver, CO; son, Curtis of Denver, CO; seven grandchildren, 6 great-great grandchildren; one great-great-great grandchild; three sisters, Pearl Black of Mt. Holly, MJ, Bertha Rodgers of East St. Louis, IL and Ethel (John) Robinson of East St. Louis, IL; two brothers, Sherman (Doris) Damper of Godfrey, IL and Michael (Sandra) Damper of O'Fallon, MO, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family.