Mary Elizabeth Carrico Willett

She was born and raised in Fancy Farm, KY to the late Gertrude and Bernard Carrico. She shared many fond memories of her childhood with her four brothers who preceded her in death, James, Charles, Albert, and Rudy Carrico. She is survived by her beloved sister, Allie Jean Carrico Elliott of Fancy Farm, KY. She was married to the love of her life, the late Joseph L. Willett, for 56 years.

They shared a beautiful family life in Jackson, TN. and Murphysboro, IL where they raised their four surviving daughters Cynthia (the late John) Purcell of Memphis, Beth (Mark)Loscudo of Lanark, IL, JoEllen (Bill) Hamilton of Jackson, TN. and Julie (Drew) Mills of Enterprise, AL. Being a devoted mother and proud Nana to her grandchildren was the most important calling of her life. She is survived by her grandchildren Jennifer Purcell, Andy (Michele)Purcell, Chris (Melissa) Purcell, Stephanie (Josh) Alexander, Mary (Nathan) Nash, Stephen (Julie) Hamilton, Joseph (Shannon) Loscudo, Laura (JT) Kaufmann, Andrew Mills, and Kathryn (Steven) Justice. She will be missed by her 13 Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She became an Administrative Assistant at Lambuth College where she made lifelong friends among the faculty and staff and students. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Church, a member of the Legion of Mary, a Girl Scout leader, and a member of P.E.O. Always seeking an opportunity to further education in children, in her eighties she began tutoring children in reading. Gardening was a passion she shared with her husband. Many neighbors, young and old marveled at their gardens and looked forward to the seasonal changes even climbing in her special dogwood tree. Memories of beach vacations, New York Broadway trips with Lambuth College, Alabama football, annual 4th of July backyard parties, family holiday gatherings, and traveling to see family and friends and exploring new sights filled a life well lived. Her love for God, family, friends, and a good time was exemplified in all she did. We will miss her infectious smile and teasing ways, but the memories will always remain.

The family extends its warmest thanks to all for your support and prayers.

Memorials can be made to: the Blue Angel Scholarship at St. Mary’s School, Jackson, TN; Sacred Heart High School, Jackson, TN; and Methodist Hospice Residence on Quince Rd., Memphis, TN.

The service will be live-streamed from St. Mary’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_Ute4HMYy0sXj0CZoK3Hkg

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GeorgeASmithandSons.com for the Willett family.