Mrs. Mary Lou Hendrix, age 81, of Ranger, Georgia, departed this life on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary Lou was born on September 1, 1944, in Pickens County, Georgia, a daughter of the late John Junior Mulkey and Bessie Wooten Mulkey. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Rose Taylor, and her brothers, James Mulkey and Charles Mulkey.

Mary Lou was a woman who truly lived life on her own terms. Independent, strong-willed, and full of personality, she found joy in the simple treasures of life. She loved spending her days working in her roses — flowers so beautiful they were the envy of her neighbors. Her yard was a reflection of her care and dedication, and her roses stood as a testament to her loving hands.

She never passed up the chance to go flea marketing or hunting for bargains at yard sales, always enjoying the thrill of the find. She also loved fishing and spending time outdoors. One of her favorite treats was Taco Bell's taco salad — but only if it was made exactly to her specifications. If it wasn't just right, she wouldn't hesitate to have it remade. That was Mary Lou — she knew what she liked and wasn't afraid to say so.

Above all, Mary Lou loved her family deeply. Her greatest joy came from being surrounded by those she cherished, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unforgettable memories.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Billy Harley "Bill" Hendrix of the residence; her sons, George Wayne Sutton, Jr. and Shane Lamar Sutton of Ranger, GA, and Billy Joe Sutton and Tobi Michelle Sutton of Fairmount, GA; grandchildren, Harley and Sierra Sutton, Katie Sutton, Carissa Shae McGraw and husband Steven; great-grandchildren, Amelia Erin McGraw and Roy Michael Sutton; sisters, Mae Holcomb of Hinton, GA, Ruth Richards of Douglasville, GA, Jean Jewett of Oakman, GA, Patsy Duffer of Texas, and Trudy Henderson of Jasper, GA; brothers, Wayne Mulkey of Atlanta, GA, and Ronnie Mulkey of Hinton, GA; along with several nieces and nephews.

Services to celebrate the life of Mrs. Mary Lou Hendrix will be held Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Ponders Fairmount Chapel with Reverend Jeff Dutton officiating. She will be laid to rest at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery with Shane Sutton, Wayne Hendrix, Doug Harper, Ryan Harper, Kyle Harper, and Justin Henderson honored to serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at Ponders Fairmount Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Saturday, and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour.

Ponders Fairmount Chapel
2566 Highway 411
Fairmount, Georgia
706-337-3784
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