Mattie Pauline "Polly" Prince

Polly was born on October 8, 1935, in Lott, Texas, to Preston and Ruby (Goodman) Crosby. A proud graduate of Chilton High School, she was known for her athletic talent, earning all-district honors in basketball. She later completed her training at beautician school in 1954 and went on to have a long and successful career.

Polly married the love of her life, John R. “Sambo” Prince, in 1955. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, hard work, and service to their community. Polly was the devoted owner and operator of several local businesses over the years, including Prince Texaco in Temple, Prince Shell in Troy and Town and Country in Troy. She was also a beloved hairdresser in the community, working for many years with Scanio-Harper Funeral Home and operating her own salon, Prince Beauty Shop.

Polly was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Troy, where her presence and spirit touched many. Her dedication to family, her community, and her church were cornerstones of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband John R. "Sambo" Prince; her son Terry Prince; her parents, Preston and Ruby Crosby; her sisters Wanda Schaake and Nettie Brummitt; and her brothers Harold, Kenneth "Sonny" and Dell Crosby.

Polly is survived by her sons, Donald Ray Prince and John Randal Prince, both of Troy; her sister, Linda Hahmann of Lorena; one granddaughter Courtney; and two great-granddaughters Kamryn and Kenzie.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home, 3110 Airport Rd., Temple, Texas.

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Troy, with burial to follow at Roberts Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Our Hospice House, 5235 Tollbridge Road, Belton, Texas 76513.

Arrangements are entrusted to Scanio-Harper Funeral Home.