May 31, 2026, 83, Goldsboro – Mary Lou Kennedy, 83, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at Goldsboro Rehabilitation and Healthcare. Born in Lenoir County on September 17, 1942, she was the daughter of the late George Kennedy and Verdie Brinson Kennedy.
In addition to her parents, Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Grant, Jr.; and brother, Tyrone George Kennedy.
Mary Lou is survived by her loving son, Reverend Karl Grant and wife, Christine; grandsons, Rollie Grant and Ryan Grant; sister-in-law, Barbara Jean Kennedy of the Villages, FL; and nieces, Kelly Kennedy, and Laura Beth Kennedy, both of Miami, FL.
Mary Lou dedicated her professional life to serving others as a case manager in the field of vocational rehabilitation, where she worked tirelessly to help individuals find their footing and reclaim independence. Among her greatest passions was her work with the deaf community, for whom she became a steadfast advocate and a trusted friend. Her commitment to this community did not wane with retirement. Long after her working days had ended, Mary Lou remained an active and beloved presence, continuing to give her time, energy, and heart to those she had served for so many years.
Outside of her service, Mary Lou’s life was filled with simple pleasures and profound joys. She was an avid reader whose love of books knew no boundaries of genre. Her beloved dog, Presley, was her constant companion and brought her no small amount of daily delight. A devoted fan of Elvis Presley, she held a special fondness for the music and spirit of the King, and the name she chose for her furry friend said it all.
Above all earthly things, Mary Lou treasured her family. They were the center of her world, the source of her greatest pride, and the joy of her everyday life. Her grandsons held a particularly special place in her heart and the love she poured into them was immeasurable and unconditional.
Woven through every aspect of her life was her unshakeable love for Jesus. Her faith was not merely something she professed, but it was something she lived. It guided her service, grounded her spirit, and gave her a peace that carried her through every season of life. She now rests in the arms of the Savior she loved so dearly.
A graveside service to celebrate Mary Lou’s life will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Kinston. The family will receive friends at the cemetery following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church, PO Box 1881, Kinston, NC 28503 in memory of Mary Lou.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home.
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