Obituary: Mary Lou Tilghman Abbott Johnson
Mary Lou Tilghman Abbott Johnson, 85, of Grifton, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Ray C. Abbott; second husband, Charles Edmond Johnson; parents, William Woodrow Tilghman and Lois Elizabeth Tilghman; sister, Marie Williams; son-in-law, Kent Clifton and stepson, Larry Johnson.
Mary Lou was a woman of strong faith who loved her family immensely. Her devotion to her family and her church was evident throughout her life. She was a faithful member of Hugo Original Free Will Baptist Church, where she served as President of the Ladies Auxiliary for many years.
Mary Lou was also very active in Eastern Star, where she served as Worthy Matron. Her dedication to serving others and her community was an important part of who she was.
For many years, Mary Lou was the proud owner of Abbott’s Tax Service, where she served clients with dedication and care. Outside of work and church, she enjoyed fishing and traveling. She especially loved visiting new places, seeing new sights, and making memories along the way.
Mary Lou had a joyful personality and truly enjoyed making others laugh. She loved telling good jokes and bringing a smile to those around her. Her warmth, humor, strong faith, and deep love for her family will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is survived by her daughter, Tami A. Clifton of Raleigh; son, Charles Abbott and wife Melanie of Raleigh; sister, Joyce Tilghman of Hugo; brother, Billy Tilghman and wife Glenda of Hugo; brother in-law, Herman Williams of Kinston; grandchildren, Kyle Clifton (Jess), Casey Christos (Mike) Justin Abbott (Nada) and Clark Abbott (Kendall); great grandchildren, Holden Clifton, Paige Clifton, Carter Christos, Jace Christos, Nellie Abbott, Dawson Abbott and Mila Abbott; stepson, Carl Johnson and wife Lisa and daughter Amanda Seymour (Clay) and two step grandsons.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Howard-Carter Funeral Home with Pastors Randy Jackson and Allen Ham officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. before the service. Burial will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Judes Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105, Sudan Shriners Children’s Hospital at PO Box 12829, New Bern, N.C. 28561 or the charity of your choice.
