Obituary of Mary L. Seagraves

Mary Louise Seagraves (Mary Lou) passed away at 88 years old, on Monday, July 20th. Born in Carneys Point, NJ on November 3rd, 1931 Mary Lou grew up as one of five children. Graduating from Penns Grove High School in 1949, she continued her education by earning an associate's degree from Goldey-Beacom College. Mary Lou began her career as a bookkeeper at Chrysler in Newark DE, and soon after married her high school sweetheart and soulmate Robert (Bob) Seagraves on November 7, 1953; they set roots to raise their family in Pennsville, NJ. As a housewife and devoted mother, Mary Lou nurtured her five children and encouraged each to chase their ambitions. She was a voracious reader throughout her life and enjoyed other activities such as bowling league and volunteering with the Girl Scouts and school PTAs. Mary Lou returned to the workforce in the mid-70s and worked until retirement as a bookkeeper at the YMCA in Carneys Point, NJ. She enjoyed her annual summer vacations in New Hampshire with her family, as well as post retirement traveling, primarily with the Jersey Skeeter Ski Club, and attending plays and musical shows. Mary Lou enjoyed crafts and needlework throughout her life, mainly knitting and cross stitch. She also continued her volunteerism with the Pennsville Womens Club, The Friends of the Pennsville Public Library, and monthly Book Club. Throughout her retirement, she devoted additional time to her family and especially her four grandchildren. Mary Lou is survived by her husband Bob; son John and wife Pam of Boynton Beach FL; daughter Patti and husband Pat Bowdren of Pennsville, NJ; son Jim (Beau) of Lisbon, NH; son Tom and wife Dawn of Cinnaminson, NJ; daughter Pam of Pennsville NJ; grandchildren Chase, Alannah, Alexa and Josh. A graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday July 24th at the Lawnside Cemetery, Woodstown. Friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at the Laughrey Funeral Home, Pennsville prior to the service. Memorial donations can be made to American Diabetes Association or American Heart Association. www.laughreyfuneralhome.com