Mary Lou Cavenaugh

Mary Lou Hatcher Cavenaugh of Wallace passed from her earthly life on the evening of March 27, 2026 while at the home of her son in Wilmington. Born on March 31, 1947, she is the daughter of the late Walter Henry Hatcher Sr. and Mamie Mae Lanier Hatcher. Also preceding her in death are her husband—Ray Bryant Cavenaugh; siblings—Hubert Hatcher, Ernest Hatcher, James Hatcher, Horace Hatcher, Howard Hatcher, Cecil Hatcher, and Edna Watkins; and daughter-in-law—Wendy Cavenaugh.

Left to cherish her memory are her children—Michael Cavenaugh of Wallace and Brian Cavenaugh (Karen) of Wilmington; grandchildren—Rian Elliott Cavenaugh (Keila), Ashley Turner, Christopher Joseph Cavenaugh, Anthony James Cavenaugh, Michael Lowery, Jessica Coffin, and Magen Strickland; great grandchildren—Hurley, David, Luke, Gage, Bella, and Joshua; daughter-in-law—Lesia Cavenaugh; sister—Dorothy Sholar of Pin Hook; sister-in-law—Barbara Hatcher of Mooresville (NC); brother-in-law—Aaron Cavenaugh (Jenny) of Wallace; special friend—Alma Matthews of Beulaville; and many nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Cavenaugh was a partner in the family business including farming, bobcat commercial work, and merchandise sales. She worked alongside the family in all these endeavors to support the family. The family expresses tremendous gratitude to caregivers—Kirsten and Jae of Lower Cape Fear Hospice, who gave excellent care and a great deal of love for Mrs. Cavenaugh during her final days on earth.

A service to celebrate her life is set for 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 in the chapel of Padgett Funeral Home in Wallace with visitation one hour prior to the service at 2:00 p.m.