Mary Lou Hines

It is with sadness mixed with joy that we announce the passing of Mary Lou Hines, a cherished mother, grandmother, great grandmother, devoted sister, and beloved friend. Mary Lou was born on June 25, 1929, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and departed this life peacefully on January 3, 2025, in Powder Springs, Georgia, at the age of 95. While saddened for our loss, we rejoice in the knowledge that she is at home with her Savior and all those who had placed their faith in Christ.

A native of Grand Forks, North Dakota, Mary Lou lived in Minnesota and Tennessee before making Smyrna her home 40 years ago. She met her husband, Dan at Northwestern Bible College in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with whom she shared a lifelong journey of faith and service. Together, they devoted their early lives to ministry, where she supported her husband's calling and worked as a church secretary and co-worker leaving a lasting impact on their community. Following their season of full-time ministry Mary Lou and Dan continued to work side by side as they developed a successful photography business followed by various entrepreneurial endeavors.

Mary Lou was a lifelong learner with a bachelor's degree and a thirst for knowledge. She found joy in reading, embraced her creativity through adult coloring books, and enjoyed the challenge of puzzles. Those who knew her well enjoyed many pleasant conversations as she displayed a kind spirit, along with a quiet nature and quick wit.

Mary Lou was a proud matriarch, leaving behind her beloved children: Becky (Roy) Harrow, Smyrna, GA, Kathy (Ernie) Cunningham, Winchester, TN, Cindy (Rick) Tipton, Chattanooga, TN, Patty (Larry) Jackson, Chattanooga, TN, David (Vicky) Hines , College Grove, TN, and Jon (Debbie) Hines, Nashville, TN; 14 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, along with her dear sister, Roberta Benson. Each of her children carries forward her legacy of kindness, faith, and commitment to family.

A memorial service celebrating Mary Lou’s life will be held at West Cobb Funeral Home and Crematory on January 18, 2025, at 1:00 PM. Prior to the service, there will be a visitation starting at 12:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories of the remarkable impact she had on all who knew her.

Mary Lou will be remembered for her unwavering spirit, nurturing heart, and the profound love she gave to her family and community. Her earthly presence may be gone, but her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all she touched.

In our sorrow, we take solace in knowing that Mary Lou is at peace, surrounded by the love she cultivated throughout her life. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse.org.

Mary was preceded in death by: husband, Daniel Willis Hines, and her parents, Gilbert and Dorothy Hanson, her sisters, Elaine (Bud) Amble, Joyce (Edward) Higgins, Doris Ann (Dick) Heinle; brother, John Hanson and sons in law, Joe Cunningham and Lynn Matuszak.