Mary Lou Preece Hampton

Mary Lou Preece Hampton, age 89 of Crumpler, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Generations Ashe. She was born on August 15, 1935, in Kanawha County, West Virginia, to the late Wilburn Sheridan Preece and Mabel Catherine Absher Preece. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by one son, Jerome Grant McMillan, two brothers, Gail Dewayne Preece Sr. and Wilburn Sheridan “Jay” Preece Jr.,  and three sisters, Molly Preece Roy, Nelmia Louise Hurley and Ruby Elizabeth “Liz” Preece Brown.

Mary's life was a beautiful testament to faith, resilience, and creativity. Growing up in Ashe County, North Carolina, she spent much of her life traveling between North Carolina and West Virginia, always staying close to her roots and family.

Her love for God was the cornerstone of her life; she entrusted her heart to Him and lived each day guided by her deep and abiding faith. Her warmth and spirit were evident in everything she did, from her hard work to her many creative pursuits.

Mary was an avid gardener; she had a remarkable gift for turning simple garden vegetables into extraordinary meals. Her talents extended beyond the kitchen — she was a gifted painter, basket weaver, and floral arranger, always finding joy in creating beauty with her hands.

 She also held many roles throughout her life — even spending time as a truck driver — but her most enduring contribution was her more than 20 years of dedicated service at Ashe Assisted Living, now known as Generations Ashe. She poured her heart into caring for others, and even donated to the addition to the facility she loved so much. Alongside her sister, Lois, she continued to take part in the creative classes and activities at Generations Ashe.

Mary will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, her boundless creativity, and her unwavering faith. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and joy that will live on in all who knew her.

Mrs Hampton is survived by her daughter, Angelia McMillan of Crumpler, and son, Vince McMillan and wife, Shirley of Maryland, one brother, Bill Preece of Hickory, one sister, Lois Cockerham of Fleetwood, six grandchildren, Jeremy D. Stiff, Shannon M. Stiff and wife, Jessica, Kevin D. Stiff, Natasha Carrere, Robert M. Blackburn and Ezekiel C. McMillan. Also surviving are seventeen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Graveside Services will be held on Monday, March 21, 2025 at 2:00pm at the McMillan-Reed Cemetery by Rev. Lloyd Day.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Generations Ashe; 182 Chattyrob Lane, West Jefferson, NC 28694.