Mrs. Mary Lou Bays

Mary Lou Bays, 86, of Rock Hill, South Carolina, passed away on March 14, 2026, at her home. Born in Hamlin, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Robert L. and Glada J. (Madden) Lucas. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Outher Jay Bays.

Mary enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with the Cabell County Board of Education, where she served as cafeteria manager at Culloden Elementary School for more than 30 years. She took great pride in her work and genuinely loved the children she served each day.

She is survived by her children, Sherry Neal of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and Donald Bays (Cathy) of Culloden, West Virginia; her grandchildren, Christopher Neal (KaCee) of Rock Hill, Jessica Mann (Jason) of Kings, North Carolina, and Heather Jordan (Dustin) of Hurricane, West Virginia; and her eight great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.