Obituary for Mary Lou Avilla Draper
Mary Lou Avilla Draper, 85 of Pulaski, VA was called home on Monday morning , February 21, 2023 surrounded by her family. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Earnest Sanford Draper. Her parents Phyllis Marie Rodriquez and Augustine Avilla, a grandson Michael Burkett and a special nephew Artie Vialpando.
Mary leaves behind her nine children to cherish her memory. Danny, Brenda Smith (Bobby), James (Patricia), Phyllis (Bud) Dalton, Clovis (Dawn), Abe (Cheryl), Leslie, Ernie (Cathy) and Brad. 35 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren. Brother-Clovis Vialpando: Brother in Law-David Draper Sister in Laws: Patricia Vialpando, Ruth Thomas, Wanda Carroll, Barbara Quesenberry, Margaret Martin, Mary Henderson: 21 Grandchildren, 22 Great-Grandchildren, and 3 Great-Great-Great grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.
Mary was a faithful and Godly wife and Mother. She had hope, courage and fought the good fight during the course of her suffering. She loved to first and foremost tend to her husband, children and grandchildren and made sure all their needs were met. Her favorite past times were embroidering, tending to her pets which consisted of dogs, cats, cockatiels, parakeets and many others. She also loved working in her flower gardens. She loved to sing and had a very beautiful angelic voice. I am sure she is now in heavens choir. Her greatest asset was the love and care she showed to others. If you met her just one time, she wanted a hug and she’d tell you she loved you. She considered you a friend for life. You will be sadly missed missed by all of us but we have your sweet and precious memories to hold onto. Rest in peace Momma, your work on earth is done and you’ve left a great legacy behind.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Seagle Funeral Home, with Pastor Tom Underwood officiating. Pallbearers will be Jessie Draper, Brock Draper, Jeremy Draper, Clovis Draper, Shane Dalton, and Jon Dalton. Interment will follow in the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery. The family will received friends on Thursday at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.seaglefuneralhome.com Arrangements by Seagle Funeral Home, Pulaski. 540-9870-1700