Obituary: Mary Lou Sullivan
Mary Lou Sullivan
February 9, 1937 – May 27, 2026
La Grange-Mary Lou Radford Sullivan, 89, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Mary Lou was born in Greene County to the late Norman and Charity Grant Radford on February 9, 1937. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 55 years, Larry Sullivan; son, Danny Sullivan; sister, Louise Jones; and sister-in-law, Faye Radford.
For twenty-two years, Mary Lou worked with Howell’s Childcare Center, where she faithfully assisted residents by providing medical transportation and caring support.
Mary Lou had a deep love for the beach and treasured the time spent at the family’s place in Cedar Point. She welcomed every opportunity to head to the coast, but what made those days truly special was having her family together. A wonderful cook with a servant’s heart, Mary Lou found great joy in gathering loved ones around her table. Christmas Day held a particularly special place in her heart, as it brought together the people she cherished most.
Mary Lou also believed in always putting her best foot forward. Her weekly Thursday trips to the hair salon were part of her routine, and her nails were always perfectly kept.
Above all else, Mary Lou was deeply devoted to her family. She stayed connected with each of them daily, always wanting to know where they were, what they were doing, and most importantly, when they would be back home. Her love and care for her family were unwavering, steady, and ever-present throughout her life.
A service of love and remembrance will be held by the graveside at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Barry Teague officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Mary Lou is survived by her sons, Garry “Shorty” Sullivan and wife Cynthia and Mike Sullivan and wife Allison; grandchildren, Amber Hatch (James), Daniel Sullivan (Stephanie), Erica Jones (Ben), Mason Sullivan (Juliana), and Ryan Sullivan; great-grandchildren, Dillian Kearney, Stryker Hatch, Tristan Greene, Xander Hatch, Roclan Hatch, Jensen Sullivan, Fallon Jones, and Porter Jones; great-great-grandchildren, Kinsley Kearney and Sullivan Green; brothers, Allen Radford (Ruth) and Keith Radford; special cousin, Bud Waters (Kay); special friend, Marty Sullivan; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Mary Lou’s memory to the American Cancer Society, 930B Wellness Drive, Greenville, NC 27834. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
