Mary E. Sowell, age 102, of Lone Oak, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Rivercrest Assisted Living.
Mary was born on February 29, 1924, a leap year, to Robert M. McLuckie and Clotus Elizabeth Herring McLuckie. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Paducah. Mary graduated from Union University and completed postgraduate work for her master's degree and Rank One Certification at Murray State University and Southern Illinois University. She taught in the McCracken County School System for 10 years and 28 years in Massac County, Illinois.
Mary enjoyed quilting, tole painting, and ballroom dancing. She always attended the quilt show in Paducah every year, where she got ideas for her wall hangings and quilts. Many hours were spent quilting wall hangings and sharing them with family and friends. Her family always made a point to celebrate her birthdays, but her 100th birthday was especially memorable. She was especially blessed to have continued to drive until the age of 100!
Survivors include two daughters, Mary Elaine Hays, Ooltewah, Tennessee; Elizabeth Ann Sarles (John), Bluffton, South Carolina; five grandchildren, Gene Hays (Virginia), Scott Hays (Candice), Beth Cawthon, Matthew Sarles and Mark Sarles (Nataile); six great-grandchildren, Naomi Hays, Mariah Hays, Evelyn Cawthon, Anna Cawthon, Evan Sarles and Ruby Jane Sarles.
Preceding in death were her parents and one brother, Clayton McLuckie.
Visitation will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home. A private family graveside committal service will be conducted by Rev. Jason Browning.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to First Baptist Church of Paducah, 2890 Broadway, Paducah, Kentucky 42001.
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