Mary Ellen Mote Herren

Mary Ellen Mote Herren, of Thorsby, passed away Saturday, July 8, just two days prior to her 88th birthday.

She is survived by three siblings, Betty Ann Mote Bowen, Walter Clay Mote, William Eugene Mote, and a large extended family that loved her greatly.

Preceding her in death were her husband of 38 years, Hugha Bradley Herren, Jr.; her father, Walter Hickman Mote; her mother, Annie Clay Stubbs Mote; sisters, Vivian Bernice Mote Walker, Sarah Elizabeth Mote Strozier, Emily Cordele Mote, Clara Marie Mote Strozier, and Verna May Mote Konig; and brothers, Joe Douglas Mote and Leonard Eugene Mote.

Mary was a gifted musician, and began playing the piano at church gatherings and for revival services at the age of nine. She was the pianist at Shade Mountain Baptist Church for many years, before she transitioned to being the organist when the church purchased their first organ in 1950. She served as either pianist or organist, in churches for over 60 years. The past 30 years, Mary served as the organist for First Baptist Church Thorsby.

Mary graduated from Shades Cahaba High School in 1947, and soon after was employed by Southern Bell. After 38 years of service, she retired as an accounting supervisor from what is now AT&T.

Mary will be remembered as a faithful servant, a hard worker, someone who loved music working in her garden, and who loved her family and friends.

The family will receive friends for visitation Monday, July 10 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church Thorsby, with a memorial service to follow.

The family suggests memorial contributions be sent in lieu of flowers Alabama Baptist Children’s Home.

Martin Funeral Home directing.