Mary Hudgins Keeter

Mary Hudgins Keeter, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, at Bryan Health and Rehab in Scotland Neck, North Carolina. Born on July 3, 1926, in Halifax County, she lived a full and vibrant life of 99 years.

Mary was a dedicated seamstress for many years, known for her skillful hands and attention to detail. Her love for sewing was matched only by her passion for cooking, canning, and shopping. Thanksgiving Day held a special place in her heart; she cherished the opportunity to gather her family around her table, sharing in the joy of food and fellowship. Her heart was at its fullest on those Thanksgiving Days when her house was overflowing with as many family members as she could fit in the house.

A devoted member of Enfield Baptist Church, Mary found strength and community within its walls. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, providing comfort and solace in times of need.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Clara Bell Hudgins, her husband, Balfour Ray Keeter, her daughter-in-law, Darnell Keeter, her son-in-law, Buddy Hamilton, and all her sisters and brothers. She is survived by two daughters: Janie Hamilton of Youngsville and Sandy Moss and her husband, Alvin of Franklinton; four sons, Buck and Todd Keeter, both of Enfield, Johnnie Hall of Conetoe, and Tracy Keeter and his wife, Zoe of Trapp, Maryland; seventeen grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren. Her legacy lives on through them and the many lives she touched with her kindness and generosity.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. at the Enfield Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2:00 PM in the sanctuary, followed by a burial at Elmwood Cemetery in Enfield. Rev. Craig Gaither will be officiating the services for Mary.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Bryan Health and Rehab for the dedication and compassion given to Mary while she lived at their facility.

In lieu of flowers, the family asked that memorial donations be made to Enfield Baptist Church, 200 West Burnette Ave, Enfield, NC 27823 or online by clicking here.

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service ~ Letchworth Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Keeter family and online condolences may be directed to the family by visiting garrettsykesfs.com.