Mary Lou Powell

County, NE on July 17, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Claude Nelson Mathews and Julia Mary Frances Hineline Mathews. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Loretta Ida “Sis” Mathews Bennett, Claudia Mathews Reimes, Donna Jean Mathews Moore, and Janet Mathews; and her brothers, Darold “Babe” Mathews Sr., Everett “Whitey” Mathews, Clifford “Corky” Mathews, Donald “Bud” Mathews, James “Jimmy” Mathews, and LeRoy “Buss” Mathews.

A longtime member of Englewood Baptist Church, Mary Lou was blessed with an outgoing and welcoming personality. Affectionately known as “Mama Bear”, she cherished her family, especially her daughter, her friends, and church family. She loved spending time with family and friends, particularly her ladies lunch dates.

Mary Lou began her career in accounting with the Federal Internal Revenue Service, moving on to work for the North Carolina Department of Revenue until her retirement after 25 years. After her retirement from the State, she went to work for M & M Tax Services until deciding to devote more time to her family. Mary Lou was very active with the Skill Creations of Pinetops, a group home dedicated to helping children with special needs. A devoted and loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and dear friend to many, Mary Lou will be forever missed and never forgotten by all who knew her.

Mary Lou is survived by her husband of 62 years, John David “J.D.” Powell; her daughter, Renee Powell; her sister, Carol Chabirus; her brother, Dwain “Huck” Mathews (Rita); and many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Mary Lou’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Englewood Baptist Church, 1350 S. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with the Rev. Charles Taylor officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. A visitation will be from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM prior to the service in the Sanctuary of Englewood Baptist Church.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.

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