To know Mary Lou Vice was to know kindness, hospitality, and unconditional love. Her family was the center of her world, and she found great joy in caring for those around her, whether through a warm meal, a welcoming smile, or a listening ear. On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, Mary Lou peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Savior at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Born in Prentiss, Mississippi, to J.C. “Mickey” and Ella Williamson, Mary Lou spent her life in Jefferson Davis County, where she became known and loved by many. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome. Whether you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone she had just met, Mary Lou greeted you with warmth, kindness, and a genuine interest in your life.
A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Mary Lou faithfully served her Lord through her membership at Society Hill Baptist Church. She devoted countless hours to teaching children’s church, serving as church hostess, and caring for others in any way she could. Her servant’s heart was evident in everything she did. She found joy in helping people, offering encouragement, and making sure those around her felt loved and cared for.
Mary Lou’s greatest joy in life was her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and a constant source of strength and support for those she loved. Her home was more than a house—it was a gathering place filled with laughter, good food, and unconditional love. She had a special talent in the kitchen and was known for preparing delicious meals that brought family and friends together around her table. Feeding people was one of the many ways she showed her love, and no one ever left her home hungry. More than anything, Mary Lou cherished the time she spent with her family. She took immense pride in her children and grandchildren and treasured every moment shared with them. The love she poured into her family and community will continue to be felt for generations to come.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Sonjia Kroner and Peggy Ostheimer, and her brothers, Evan Williamson and Russell Williamson. She is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, Frank Vice; her daughter, Amy Vice Freeman; her son, Frank Vice, Jr.; her sister, Vicki Robbins; her brother, Elbert Williamson; and her cherished grandsons, Hunter Paul Freeman and Bryce Mitchell Freeman, along with many extended family members, church family, and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
Visitation will be held at Colonial Funeral Home on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Saturday at 11:00 am. Funeral services celebrating Mary Lou’s life will be held at Society Hill Baptist Church on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with visitation from 12:00 p.m. until service time. Burial will be in Society Hill Cemetery following the service.
Though her family grieves her passing, they find comfort in knowing that she is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Mary Lou leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, hospitality, and love—a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be made in Mary Lou's honor to the Knoxville Ronald McDonald House at: knoxrmhc.org
