Mrs. Mary Lou Matthews, 92, of Lillington joined her heavenly Father on Monday, February 14, 2022, surrounded by her children and family. She was born in Harnett County, the daughter of the late Hubert and Lucille Byrd. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 74 years, Billy Ray Matthews; son-in-law, David Ryan; brothers, Richard Byrd and wife Fannie Lou Byrd, Hubert Daniel Byrd; brother-in-law, Charles "Chip" Matthews.

Mary Lou had a servant's heart that touched many lives her entire lifetime.  She was a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, and Meme.  Her most important mission in life was to care for and love her family.  She left quite a legacy as a Christian Woman and mentor.

She was a longstanding active member of the Lillington Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher, sang in the choir and in countless other ways.  She had a special place in her heart for the friendships she formed in the Sara Womble Bible Class.

In addition to her family and her church, she served her community in many ways.  She began her career at the Harnett County Clerk of Courts office and soon was hired as the first female manager of Home Savings and Loan Association in Lillington.  Through this position, she enabled many people to acquire their first home loan.  As the bank grew under her leadership, she was able to offer financial support to many people in the community.  Her service and dedication to Lillington was recognized when she received the Lillington Area Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year Award.

Mary Lou is survived by her daughter, Debby M. Ryan of Wilmington; son, Danny R. Matthews and wife Susan of Supply; 5 grandchildren, Matthew Clark and wife Jenny of San Diego, CA, Anna Murphy and husband Ryan of Wilmington, Brian Matthews and wife Ginny of Fuquay-Varina, Lauren Smith and husband Chris of Supply, Kaley Bowers and husband Michael of Raleigh; 7 great-grandchildren, Madeline, Mason, Seth, Claire, William, Callie, and Lennon; Sister-in-law, Becky Ferrell and husband Landis of Raleigh; brother-in-law, Leslie Matthews, Jr. and wife Tunisia of Chesapeake, VA; sister-in-law, Sue Long Matthews of Ocala, FL; many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, February 22, 2022, at Lillington Baptist Church from 11:00-11:45 AM. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM in the sanctuary. A private graveside service will be held at Westview Cemetery in Lillington.

Flowers will be appreciated, or memorials may be made to Lillington Baptist Church, P.O. Box 670, Lillington, NC 27546, Community Home Care & Hospice- Belville, 497 Olde Waterford Way #208, Belville, NC 28451 or Coastal Pointe, 5220 Ocean Highway West, Shallotte, NC 28470.