mary lou arrington towner
1912-1977
Life Story
Mary Lou Arrington Towner was the daughter of Henry Arrington (1891-1988) and Isabella Walker Arrington (1895-1961). She was born in Newton County, Mississippi, on October 27, 1912, into a family that valued hard work and community values. Growing up in the Altare Community, a close-knit rural area, she often played with local children and learned the importance of cooperation and resilience. Despite the challenges of the era, she had completed the 2nd grade of elementary school by 1940, showcasing her determination to pursue education during difficult times. In addition to her education, she worked diligently on the family farm to help support her family, tending to crops and animals while developing a strong connection to the land. This multifaceted upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for family bonds and the strength of communal ties in overcoming adversity.
On February 27, 1932, Mary Lou married John Lindsay (1912-?), and her primary role was as a housewife while also assisting with farm labor to support their burgeoning family. The couple worked diligently on their farm, cultivating crops and raising livestock, while Mary Lou managed the household, ensuring that everything ran smoothly. From this union, four children were born, who were as follows:
- Ruby Lindsey (1933-2008)
- Willie Colbert Lindsey (1936-2013)
- May E. Lindsey (1938-?)
- X.L. William (1941-1943)
Mary Lou’s second marriage was with Rev. Willie Towner (1908-1966), a prominent figure in their community known for his dedication to his faith and family. From this union, six children were born, each contributing their unique talents and characteristics to the family legacy. The known children are as follows:
- Irene Towner (1946-?)
- Albert Lee Towner (1947-2020)
- Costello Towner (1950-?)
- Annie Towner
- Leroy Towner
- Rosie Mary Towner (1954-2001)
Mary Lou passed away on July 8, 1977, at Mt. Carmel Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, surrounded by close family members who cherished her deeply. She was 84 years old, having lived a long and fulfilling life marked by love, resilience, and an indomitable spirit. Her funeral was held at Pine Ridge M.B. Church in Decatur, MS, with Rev. M.L. Johnson officiating, providing comfort and solace to those who gathered to pay their respects. Friends and family shared heartfelt memories, reflecting on her kindness and the impact she had on those around her. Interment took place in the church cemetery, where she was laid to rest among the land and community that had nurtured her throughout her life.
Survivors include her father, Henry Arrington of Newton; three sisters, Mrs. Cora Chapman, Mrs. Sadie Simpson, and Mrs. Mildred Carroll, all from Newton; five brothers, Herbert Arrington, Curtis Arrington, Purvis Arrington, Wardell Arrington, and Charles Arrington of Dallas, Texas; three sons and four daughters, Albert Lee Towner and Costello Towner from Decatur; Miss Ruby Lindsey from Flint, Michigan; Mrs. Annie Morris from Detroit; Mrs. Irene Nichols from Newton; and Mrs. Rosie Johnson from Flint, Michigan.
Resting Place
Pine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- Michigan, U.S., Death Index, 1971-1996
- The Newton Record, Isabella Arrington Obituary, Wed, Aug 09, 1961 ·Page 11
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- Scott County Times, Mary Lou Towner Obituary, Wed, Jul 20, 1977 ·Page 8
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, John Lindsay, 1940-1947
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