Mary Lou White

Mary Lou White, age 106, of Huntsville, left this earth peacefully on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. She was born September 13, 1916 to Ethel and John Baggett in Clay County, AL. Of their four children, she was the only girl. Upon finishing school she married John L. Martin and had two children. While raising her children, she attended Cosmetology School and later opened her own beauty salon. In the early 1960’s she moved to Huntsville and managed the beauty salon at the first J.C. Penny store in The Mall in Huntsville.

She volunteered her time to work with veteran’s service organizations and non-profit organizations close to her heart. Over the years she received national recognition and numerous awards from the American Legion Auxiliary Post 237, and supported Shriners Hospitals for Children.

She had a huge zest for life and lived it to the fullest. She loved traveling, reading, music, card games, bingo and casinos. Affectionately called “Mama Lou” by all her family, she was the matriarch of five generations. Her timeless beauty and amazing longevity inspired awe in all who knew her.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Lauren White, her son, James Martin, and three brothers. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Sparks-Lewis, grandchildren Marcia Cordonis (Costas), Gary Sparks (Susie), and Jimmy Martin (Cheryl), four great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.

To her caregivers and to the staff of Regency Retirement Village, our family offers heartfelt thanks for the care provided to our loved one.

Visitation will be held Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Valhalla Funeral Home, followed by a service at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Lakewood United Methodist Church (P.O. Box 3918, Huntsville, AL 35810) or to Shriners Hospitals for Children (c/o Cahaba Shrine, P.O. Box 3388, Huntsville, AL 35810) on her behalf.