September 5, 2024, 79, Dudley —
Mary Lois Whitfield Fowlkes, lovingly known as “Sugarbabe” to her family and friends, peacefully departed this life on Thursday, September 5, 2024, in Raleigh, NC. Born in Wayne County, NC, to the late Willo and Mary Jane Parks Whitfield, she lived a life marked by love, dedication, and service.
Mary graduated from Carver High School in Mount Olive, NC, and went on to further her education at Fayetteville State University. She later pursued her passion for nursing in Washington, DC, where she embarked on a long and fulfilling career, serving others with compassion and commitment until her retirement.
A woman with a servant’s heart, Mary was known for her tireless work ethic and her willingness to go above and beyond to help anyone in need. Her generosity, kindness, and warm spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Fowlkes; three sisters, Coleather Whitfield, Annie Mae Maye, and Doris Whitfield; and one brother, Samuel Whitfield, Sr.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her surviving family: five sisters, Mary Lou Whitfield of Suitland, MD, Brenda Allen of Raleigh, NC, Willo Jean Jordan and Belinda Whitfield of Goldsboro, NC, and Almenter Pickett (Jacob) of Dudley, NC; three brothers, Ronald Whitfield (Delphine) of Dudley, NC, Ted Whitfield (Alicia) of Goldsboro, NC, and Willo Whitfield, Jr. of Cordova, TN; a sister-in-law, Pinnie Whitfield of LaGrange, NC; a special friend, Carolyn Rogers; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will miss her dearly.
Funeral service will be held Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro. Interment will follow at Wayne Memorial Park in Dudley. Visitation will be held prior to the service from noon until 12:45 p.m. at the funeral home.
Professional services are entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.
