Mary Lou Bates Whitaker Obituary
The family of Mary Lou Bates Whitaker of Fairview, North Carolina announces her passing on August 26, 2026. Mary Lou, born on March 16, 1940, is remembered by family, friends, and others who shared time and connection. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Rufus Bates and Hazel Bates; her husband William Frederick "Fred" Whitaker; her brother Harold Boyce "Bobie" Bates; and her grandson Joseph Harold Whitaker.
She is survived by: her children, William "Bill" Whitaker, Teresa Whitaker Boone (Keith), Tim Whitaker (Lisa) and Lisa Whitaker Honeycutt; her grandchildren, Joshua Boone (Crystal), Eric Boone, Jeremiah Boone, Billy Whitaker (Karen), Kayla Whitaker, Amanda Whitaker and Jacob Whitaker (Haley); her great grandchildren, Jordyn Whitaker, Tyler Allen, Colston Boone, Eilah Boone, Mia Whitaker and Cade Whitaker; and her sister Linda Bates Barnes (Ben). She is also survived by many nieces, nephews.
Visitation was held on Monday, August 31st 2026 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Chapel Groce Funeral Home (72 Long Shoals Rd, Arden, NC 28704). A funeral service was held on Monday, August 31st 2026 at 3:00 PM at the same location. A burial was held on Monday, August 31st 2026 at 4:00 PM at the Cane Creek Cemetery (94 Graveyard Rd, Fairview, NC 28730).
Flowers are appreciate, but for those who choose, memorial donations may be made to Faith Chapel, 10 Sigmon Road, Fletcher NC 28732.
