Mary Lois Eakins Williams, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on June 18, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear Life Care Center in Wilmington. Born on May 29, 1943, in Pender County, Mary Lois dedicated her life to service, compassion, and the welfare of others.

A retired Social Worker from Pender County, she was known for her tireless commitment to helping people and for the warmth and empathy with which she touched so many lives. Her legacy is one of love, kindness, and selfless support for her community and family.

Mary’s remarkable life is forever cherished by those she held dear. She leaves behind three devoted daughters: Sonya Herring, Chanda Herring Jones, and Lori Williams Henry. Her heart was also enlarged by two bonus children, Charles Herring Jr. and Bonita Henderson, who benefitted from her unwavering care and strength. Mary’s beloved brother, George Herbert Eakins, survives her, carrying with him the memory of a sister whose love was steadfast and enduring.

As a grandmother, Mary took immense pride and found great joy in her six grandchildren: TaKera Phipps, Tayvon Mitchell, Josiah Henry, Jessica Jones Williams, Jasmine Jones Smith, and Aaron Jones. Each grandchild was a source of boundless happiness, and she enriched their lives with guidance and unconditional support. Her legacy also continues through her four great-grandchildren, Kaiden Jones, Jeremih Mitchell, Isaiah Turner, and Kehlani Mitchell, each treasured and adored.

Those closest to Mary remember her as someone who always put the needs of others ahead of her own—a caring presence who would listen, comfort, and help whenever the opportunity arose. Her compassion extended beyond her professional life as a social worker, shaping her everyday interactions and anchoring her in the hearts of her family and the broader community.

Family and friends are invited to honor her memory during a visitation and viewing to be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Dunn Funeral Home, 810 West Wilmington Street, Burgaw, NC 28425. 

A memorial service will follow on Sunday at 2:00 pm at Burgaw Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Highway 117 South, Burgaw, NC.

The loss of Mary Lois Eakins Williams leaves a void that cannot be filled, but all who knew her are grateful for the years shared and the love bestowed. Her spirit endures in the lives she touched, and her memory will be cherished forever.