Mary Lou Pyrtle Champion, 89, formerly of Eden, passed away from this earth into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Monday, November 3, 2025 at Transitions Life Care in Raleigh.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Mary Lou was born in Leaksville on February 11, 1936, a daughter of Jesse Dillard Pyrtle and Bessie Cofer Pyrtle, both deceased.  She was a graduate of Tri-City High School and retired from Hanes Corporation working in the accounting department.  She loved getting together with family and friends, watching old movies and discussing politics.  She enjoyed many years with her cat, Joey, before he passed.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Earl Champion; her four sisters and two brothers.

Mary Lou is survived by her daughters, Tammy Champion Carpenter (Mark), Page Champion Roberts (John), Jill Champion Booth (Ed), and Ann Champion Marshall; her sister, Eloise Pyrtle Pruitt; her grandchildren, Jane Leinecker Podolsky, Judy Leinecker Strobolakos, Beth Leinecker Oakley, Charles Roberts, Wyn Booth, Gray Marshall; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.

Boone & Cooke, Inc. Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.