Mary Fomby

Mary L. Fomby, the daughter of the late Forney Thornton and Willie Mae Thornton Turner, graced this world with her presence on March 26, 1941, in Lincoln, Alabama. Early in life, Mary accepted Christ as her savior while attending Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church. Eventually, she united with Pine Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Joseph S. Rowser, Sr. While traveling her earthly journey, Mary met her soulmate, Mr. Fred L. Fomby. In 1963, they united in holy matrimony and was blessed with 61 years of marriage. Mary was a woman who found pleasure in the simple things in life, whether it was spending time with her family, playing cards, solving word puzzles, or frying fish for her loved ones to enjoy. Sundays were sacred for Mary. She dedicated time to give God praise and maintained bond with her sister through a weekly phone call. On Sunday morning, August 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, Mary Fomby transitioned from labor to reward and entered eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Fred L. Fomby; parents, Forney and Willie Mae Thornton; brothers, Cornett Thornton and Clarence Joiner; brothers-in-law, Sidney Fomby, Nelson White, and John W. Embry; and nephews, Dexter Embry, Gary Carmichael, and Tory Carmichael. Mary Fomby's memories will forever be treasured by children, Michael (Lisa) Watkins, Robert C. Embry, Donnie (JoAnn) Watkins, Brenda Douglas, Denita (Bruce) Granger, and Chris (Sheila) Embry; grandsons, Donnie L. Stewart, Delrico (Delicia) Watkins, Lee D. (Mirian) Robinson, and Markell Fomby; granddaughters, Donna (Sylvester) Smith, Bianca Embry, Tiffiny Williams, Khadejah Embry, Tanesha, Latarsha and Tracy; brothers, Alfonso Thornton and Paul (Sheila) Embry; sister, Willie Pearl (Robert) Nissman; brothers-in-law, Roosevelt (Joan) Fomby, Elton (Jimmy Lou) Fomby, and Rodney (Vicki) Fomby; sisters-in-law, Mary E. Fomby, Lorene L. White, and Tina White; special cousins, Ann L Miller and Ruth Glover; host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members and friends. Let us remember Mary for the love she gave, the wisdom she shared, and the warmth she spread. As we gather to celebrate her life, we invite all who knew and loved her to join us in keeping her spirit alive in our hearts.

Tributes

Mary Fomby

March 26, 1941 - August 24, 2025