Mary Lois Houston

Mary Lois Houston died Wednesday, July 2 surrounded by her daughters and loved ones. Lois, named by her Daddy was born 6.26.1937 to Charlie and Velma Houston and her older sister, Correine. She spent her life helping her parents on the family farm in Whitesburg. In school, she excelled in basketball serving as co-captain of the team. She received a scholarship to Lincoln Memorial University where she aspired to be a basketball coach and athletic director. Due to a tragic fire with the family losing their home and all belongings, Lois chose to go to business school instead.

In 1957, she married, in her words, the love of her life, Doug Maxey and had two daughters, Sharon and Karen. She had a long working career as office manager for Joe Carter Construction and later for Morristown Block. She retired at age 80 and briefly went back to work at age 86 to help her friend, Robert Ivens at Morristown Block. Lois was blessed to have many friends whom she cherished. She was always kind to everyone and always willing to help anyone in need, a true testament to her unwavering character.

Lois was saved at age 11 into the Baptist faith and continued her walk with GOD throughout her life. She is known for her wonderful smile and quiet faith. Her daughters find peace in knowing their Mother is with Jesus, reunited with her loved ones gone before her. While our hearts are heavy, we hold the promise of eternal life and rejoice in seeing her again.

Lois is survived by her daughters, Sharon Maxey and Karen Bolton (Larry), grandchildren Ryan Bolton (Jennifer “JD”) and Natasha Parker (Chad) and precious great-grandchildren. Also an extended family who fondly called her mom, Roger and Suzanne Hurst. She also leaves several dear cousins and friends.

A special thank you to Suzanne and Roger who never left her side during this difficult time. Also, to everyone at UT Home Health and UT Hospice; especially Holly Greene and James Bond.

A graveside service will be held Monday, July 7th at 10:00am at Hamblen Memory Gardens to celebrate the life of Mary Lois Houston. She will be dearly missed but her sweet spirit will live on in all who was fortunate to have known her.