March 22, 2024, 87, La Grange —
December 21, 1936 – March 22, 2024
Mary Martha Hutton Colie, 87, was welcomed into the presence of her Lord on Friday, March 22, 2024. Mary was born in Covington, Kentucky to the late James Fred and Esther Leola Beers Hutton on December 21, 1936. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two siblings, James Fred Hutton, Jr. and Edna Reed; and her husband of almost 63 years, Rev. Willard Colie, Sr.
Growing up in rural Kentucky, Mary learned early on the value of hard work and the commitment of family. Losing her mother at an early age, Mary quickly stepped in as a caretaker and provider for her family. With her father working as an engineer with the railroad, Mary’s fascination for trains was deeply rooted. Whether watching them pass by or riding as a passenger, there was no prettier sound than that of the train whistle.
Though Mary never served in military service, she was devoted to her country and those who served through constant and faithful prayer. Having received a list of names of servicemen and picking one to pray for, Mary didn’t realize the name she chose would soon become the love of her life. Through fervent prayer and pen-pal communication, Mary and Willard grew closer to each other. Before they even met, they recognized that the Lord had brought them together.
Devout in her Christian faith, Mary served her Lord in thought, word, and deed. Her musical talents were offered up in praise alongside the talents of her family. With Willard on rhythm guitar, Mary on bass, and their son, Mickey, on lead guitar, the trio enjoyed singing and playing old gospel favorites together.
Hardworking and determined, Mary worked many years as an inspector in the shirt factories. When she came home, cooking, cleaning, and caring for her children while helping her husband with the farm were duties she gladly attended. The gathering of her family around the table was one of her greatest joys, and her pride in each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was evident.
Of all the serene beauty in the world, Mary thought God’s best artwork was found in the mountains. No matter the season, there was a beauty to behold in the rolling hills and steep peaks.
A graveside service to celebrate Mary’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in Fairview Cemetery with Rev. Mickey Colie officiating.
Mary is survived by her six children, Rev. Willard “Mickey” Colie Jr., Dawn Renee Colie Price and husband, Eddie, Anita Ann Colie Stanley, April Lee Colie, Melodia Lynn Colie Outlaw and husband, Tony, and Kim Dee Colie Hughes and husband, Cary; daughter-in-law, Lisa Boothe; eleven grandchildren, Robert Colie (Delilah), Bobby Colie, Raven Colie, Sierra Colie, Ryan Boothe (Ashley), Ethan Price, Brianna Colie, Jamie Outlaw, Scott Outlaw (Jennifer), Alex Hughes and Jordan Hughes; nine great-grandchildren, Kevin, Logan, Tyler, Ayden, Corbin, Caroline, Loclyn, Emma, Gracie, and Oaklay; sister, Alma Lou Parker; and special friends, Francisco and Cassandra Mendez and their daughters, Arianna and Nathalia.
Family and friends will be received on Monday, March 25, 2024, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Mary, payable to
Rouse Funeral Home
108 N. Caswell Street
La Grange, NC 28551
memo: Mary Colie Funeral Expenses
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
