June 15, 2026, 90, Goldsboro – Mary Harriett Walton, 90, peacefully passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Born in Wayne County on July 22, 1935, she was the daughter of the late John S. Walton and Ruby Hunter Walton.
A proud graduate of Goldsboro High School, Harriett was a faithful member of Madison Avenue Baptist Church and an active member of the Goldsboro Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA). Throughout her life, she believed in serving others, whether through her church, her community, or her profession.
Harriett’s career reflected her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. In her earlier years, she was employed with Kemp Furniture before embarking on the career for which she became so well known. She faithfully served as a Clerk with the Wayne County Clerk of Court’s Office and later as an Arbitration Coordinator with the North Carolina Court System. Over the decades, she became a familiar and beloved presence within the Wayne County Courthouse and throughout downtown Goldsboro.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Harriett found joy in the simple routines and friendships that enriched her days. She was a cherished fixture at B&G Grill each weekday morning, where she enjoyed breakfast among friends, and she could often be found at The Lantern Inn on weekends.
Known for her warm smile, gentle spirit, and genuine kindness, Harriett touched the lives of countless individuals who crossed her path. She possessed a meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering standard of excellence. Those who knew her best often smiled when recalling that while Harriett was always willing to help, she also believed there was a right way to do things—and more often than not, it was her way. Her professionalism, integrity, and dedication earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, attorneys, judges, law enforcement, and friends alike.
Harriett’s devotion to her work never wavered. Even at the remarkable age of 90, she continued serving with the same commitment that had defined her career for decades. Despite declining health, she remained determined and steadfast. Following a recent fall and rehabilitation stay, her thoughts were not centered on herself but on returning to work. In true Harriett fashion, she worried that the courthouse needed her.
In recognition of her extraordinary dedication and years of faithful service to the citizens of North Carolina, Harriett was honored with the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the state’s highest civilian honors, on December 5, 2025. The award served as a fitting tribute to a woman whose life exemplified service, loyalty, and commitment to her community.
With a life marked by dedication, grace, and unwavering service, Harriett leaves behind a legacy that will long be remembered throughout Wayne County and beyond.
Harriett is survived by her longtime friends and caregivers, Nina Pennington, Chris Holder-Daly, and Mollie Sykes; her breakfast companions, Rose Lancaster and Tim and Linda Smith; several cousins, and her work family at the Wayne County Courthouse.
A graveside service to celebrate Harriett’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Michael Sykes and Rev. Steve Holder officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Wayne Community College Scholarship for Students in Need, 3000 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534; Madison Avenue Baptist Church, 300 S Madison Avenue, Goldsboro, NC 27530; or to the charity of your choice.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
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