Obituary

Mary Lee Thompson Greely

August 20, 1939 — August 23, 2026

Mary Lee Thompson Greely was born on August 20, 1939 in Angie, Louisiana to Willie Clarence, Sr. and Classie Thompson. She was the oldest of what eventually became twelve children. She attended Wesley Ray High School in Angie, Louisiana.

She joined Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor T. Boe Wilson in her early years and later in life moved to Center Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Linwood Bolton, Sr. She dedicated her life to serving God as a young woman. She served on the usher board, senior mission, and various other committees during her many years there. Sister Greely was usually the first person at the sanctuary sitting outside in her car, waiting for the church doors to be opened. She firmly believed that an on-time God deserves and on-time servant. She was a faithful and devoted servant until she became ill and passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter, Barbara.

Sister Greely was united in holy matrimony to Mr. William P. Greely, Sr on April 17, 1954. To this union, eight children were born: four boys and four girls. There was never a dull moment in the Greely household. Mary loved every minute of motherhood. She expressed on numerous occasions that when she was growing up, her primary goal was to get married, have a family and be a good mother. Her children have only praise and adoration for their mother. She has certainly accomplished that goal and many others.

As a family Matriarch, she was the one everyone came to for advice. She was extremely intelligent and very organized. She was the rock for many, especially her children and grandchildren. She was loved dearly by all and she loved everyone.

During her free time, Mary enjoyed reading, studying the Bible, doing word find puzzles and watching her favorite television shows: Ask the Pastor, Wheel of Fortune, and Family Feud.

She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters, Paula L. Greely (Richmond, VA) and Barbara (Jerome) Williamson (Bogalusa, LA); two sons, Ronnell Greely (Franklinton, LA) and Kendric Greely (Monroe, WI); three sisters, Annie Thompson, Clarissa (Archie, Jr,) McGowan, and Augustine Anderson; four brothers, Deck Zell Thompson, Leonard R. Thompson, Lorandy (Clara) Thompson and Homer Thompson; a daughter-in-law who helped care for her when she was not at her best, Jackie Greely; 23 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; one and a half great great grandchildren, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; two daughters, (Jacqueline and Lee Edna); two sons, (Porter Jr. and Paul); one grandchild (Julez); three sisters; one brother; and one son-in-law.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026 from 4:00PM - 6:00PM at Crain and Sons Funeral Home 809 East 3rd Street  Bogalusa, LA 70426 . The Viewing will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at 9:00AM - 11:00AM at Greater Center MB Church 29849 LA-21 Angie, LA 70426 with Pastor Sidney Jones - Officiating. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home - Bogalusa are in charge of arrangements.