Mary Louise Towles

Mary Louise Towles, 78, of Gulfport, MS passed away Monday, September 7, 2026. She is survived by the Towles family: Terry; Mike; children Chris (Kim), David (Lauren), Rebecca; and six grandchildren; Madison, Nathan, Gavin, Olivia, Gwen, and Alex.

Mary loved teaching language arts at D’Iberville Middle School in D’Iberville, MS and then Old Town Elementary in Winston-Salem, NC. During her years as a teacher in MS, Mary earned a master’s degree in education from William Carey College. Even outside of the classroom, she encouraged learning and the love of books, as well as exploring new possibilities with curiosity and creativity.

Mary was a founding member of Mississippi Gulf Coast Highlands and Islands Association of Celtic Gatherings, serving as its first athletic director. She loved quirky friends and an indeterminate number of cats. Black Mountain, NC held a special place in her heart and she enjoyed reading at the pier in Gulfport, MS. She found joy in crocheting, creating stained glass pieces, and painting.

She will be remembered for how she often put the needs of others before her own. Memory of her love and compassion will live on through her children, grandchildren, students, and all those whose lives she touched. Mary is deeply loved, dearly missed, and forever remembered.

Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home, O'Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Mary Louise Towles.