Mary Alice Lemons Towns

Mary Alice Lemons Towns passed away on December 11, 2016 at the age of 92. She was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas on January 20, 1924 to Charles and Elizabeth Lemons. They moved to Tyler Texas when Mary was young. She grew up in Tyler with 2 brothers and 2 sisters. During World War II, Mary moved to Washington, D.C. to become a civilian War Department worker. Mary, along with a million women, were known as the "Government Girls" They stepped into government jobs vacated by men that were deployed overseas. After the war ended she returned to Tyler.

Mary was married to the late Raymond Earl Towns for 57 years. They met as kids at Cedar Street Methodist Church in Tyler. Their first date was at an MYF Valentine's dance. Mary, Raymond and their two children moved to Austin in 1963. Mary and Raymond were long time members of St. John's Methodist Church. She worked at the Texas Capital, Parks and Wildlife and Texas Rehabilitation Commission until she retired to gardening, family and traveling.

Mary was a wonderful, loving and generous Mother, Mimi, Great Mimi, Auntie M and 'Myrt' to her family and friends. She had a kind and gentle soul with a smile that would light up the room.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband Raymond Towns, her parents and siblings: Bette Lemons Tunnell, John Lemons, Charles Lemons and Marguerite Lemons Towles. She is survived by her children, Steve Towns (wife Beth) and Judy Towns Strawmyer (husband Jeff); grandchildren: Tyler Strawmyer (wife Natalie), Colton Towns, Kendall Housewright (wife Erin) and Kimberly Sleeth (husband Michael); and great grandchildren: Jackson Strawmyer, Hannah, Aidan, Brighton, Oliver and Ephraim Sleeth.

While it is especially difficult to lose Mary during the Christmas season, we are comforted to know she is in her heavenly home with her Lord and Savior, Raymond and other loved ones. Merry Christmas Mom and Dad.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 2.00 p.m. on Monday, December 19, 2016 at Austin Memorial Park in Austin, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice.