Mary Lanier was born in Savannah, Ga. to Kell and Lucy (Camp) Hood in 1930 and moved to Okeechobee, Florida in1932 where she still resides. She began singing in churches in 1946. Mary married Wilbur Lanier in 1947 and gave birth to 2 sons, later adopted a son. She had a home for children and is Mom to many children. A total of 33 children were in her home over the years. However, only 12 remained to adulthood.  She now has 25 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Mary has performed as a soloist and also with other groups.  She joined The Celebration Singers in September 1987. God has blessed her with energy and vitality to continue her music ministry and He is still blessing her each day as she travels, sings His praises, and shines His light to others along the journey.

 Mary lives at Dunklin Memorial Camp, a place where many troubled people come to know more about God and His saving and delivering power. Her hearts desire is to be able to help and bless others till the end of this journey.