Mary Lou Carey, a beloved member of the Cave City community, passed away peacefully at her residence on January 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 24, 1943, in Little Falls, New York, she lived a life characterized by her unwavering dedication to her community and her passion for connecting with others.
Mary Lou, known affectionately as one who never met a stranger, demonstrated her commitment to community service as both an entrepreneur and a devoted board member of the Cave City Chamber of Commerce for over thirty-two years. Her leadership was marked by a decade-long term as Chamber President from 1995 to 2005, during which she left a lasting impact on the organization and the community it serves. In recognition of her contributions, she was inducted into the Cave City Hall of Fame on December 10, 2024.
Together with her late husband, Sherman, Mary Lou was a co-owner and operator of Jessie James Riding Stables, the Alpine Slide, Go-Carts, and Miniature Golf at Jessie James Village. Additionally, she was an expert glassblower and owned the Glass Shop, showcasing her artistic spirit and commitment to craftsmanship.
A proud graduate of Caverna School, Mary Lou was a prominent businesswoman in Cave City for over fifty years. Her interests extended beyond her work, as she had a genuine love for horses and cardinals, symbols that resonated with her warm and vibrant personality.
Mary Lou is survived by her son, Ricky Carey, and fiancee’ Duffy; her daughter, Sherry Murphy and husband Roy; her grandchildren, Jessica Dover and husband Thomas, Lindsey Tester and husband Michael, David Coates and wife Chelly; and nine great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Emily, Preston, Paisley, Jake, Braylie, Riley, Parker, and Reya. She is also survived by her brothers Glenn Hester and Larry Hester, and her sisters Betsy Christy, Mildred Llewelyn, and Carol Hester.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Harley “Dick” Hester and Marion Jane (Neeley) Hester; her husband, Sherman Allen Carey; her grandson, Lucas Carey; and her siblings Darrell Leonard, Harley Hershel Hester, and Dixie Durbin.
Mary Lou Carey leaves behind a rich legacy of kindness, community engagement, and familial love that will continue to resonate with all who had the honor of knowing her.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from Bob Hunt Funeral Chapel, with burial to follow in the Cave City Cemetery. Bro. Trevor Thomas will officiate the service.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Bob Hunt Funeral Chapel after 3 p.m. and again on Thursday morning after 9 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m.
