May 3, 2026, 71, Kenly – Mary Lou Johnson Hawley, 71, passed away at Duke University Hospital on May 3, 2026. Born in Johnston County on October 31, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Walter Thomas Johnson and Mattie Kathleen Godwin Johnson.
In addition to her parents, Mary Lou was preceded in death by her loving husband of 48 years, Ronnie Hawley; and sisters, Yvonne Narron and Janice Faye Barfield.
Mary Lou is survived by her daughters, Christy Thornton and Samantha Medlin and husband, Thomas; grandchildren, Kirsty Ostrander Smith and husband, Dylan, Sabrina Medlin Bass and husband, Aubry, Dalton Ostrander, and Ethan Medlin; and brothers, Tommy Johnson and Larry Godwin and wife, Melanie.
Mary Lou was a woman of quiet strength, gentle spirit, and deep love for the simple joys of life. She found great happiness in reading a good book, no matter the genre.
Above all, Mary Lou cherished her family. She loved spending time together, whether through meaningful conversations, shared meals, or simply being present in each other’s lives. Her home was a place of warmth and comfort, where family always came first. She created lasting memories through her love, kindness, and steady presence, and her family was truly the center of her world.
Those who knew Mary Lou will remember her for her caring heart, her gentle nature, and the way she made others feel valued and loved. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, compassion, and quiet grace that will continue to live on in all who knew her.
A service to celebrate Mary Lou’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at 7 p.m. at Kenly Funeral Service with Pastor Lewis Forsythe presiding. The family will receive friends prior to the service, from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. Interment will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.
Copyright © 2026 by the family of Mary Lou Johnson Hawley
