Mary Lou Jessee Thomas, 84 of Bagby, VA passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. She was born to Jack and Pauline Jessee on March 24, 1939 in Dayton, Ohio. Mary Lou married the love of her life, Joe Thomas, on November 18, 1961 and was a proud mom of Pamela Thomas Eakin and Randy Thomas. Mary Lou was beautiful, she was tremendous light in our family, a true piece of each of us, a favorite part of ourselves. Momma was blessed with the patience of Job. She was happiest with family around and always said family was her greatest blessing. Mary Lou is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Harold Jessee and Jackie Jessee. She is survived by her husband of nearly 61 years; Joe Thomas, her daughter Pamela Eakin ( Bill Eakin) , her son Randy Thomas (Lyne Thomas). She is survived by two grandchildren who knew her as their “Nanny.” Her pride and love for them will stay with them always; Brooke Buchanan (Taylor) and Richard Collawn. She is also survived by one brother Paul Jessee. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 8^th at 11:00am in Salem Baptist Church, Sparta, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church, one hour prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Baptist Church.