Mary Josephine Fitts, 95

McMinnville, TN resident and native Mary Josephine Fitts, 95, was born June 23, 1930 and died May 23, 2026, exactly one month before her 96th birthday, at her residence in the Centertown Community.

Mary Josephine was the last surviving child born to Dallas Bedford and Nettie Florence Lance Carrick, who preceded her in death.

On Dec. 3, 1946 in Rossville, Ga., Mary was united in marriage to Jesse N. Fitts, who preceded her in death on Sept. 4, 2016 after almost seventy years of marriage.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by son, Billy Ray Fitts on Oct. 11, 2023; sisters, Loretta Carrick Tittsworth and Estelle Carrick Fitts; brothers, Cecil Randal and J. C. Carrick and son-in-law, Robert “Bob” Woodard.

She is survived by sons, Jesse R. (Brenda) Fitts and Robert (Betty) Fitts of McMinnville; daughter, Carol Woodard of Carthage; grandchildren, Ricky (Donna) Fitts, Mike (Amy) Fitts, Jerry Fitts, Misty Martin, Jessica Dee (Casey) Higgins, Susan (Eric) Marvin, Robert (Katie) Woodard, Shannon (Eula) Fitts and Megane (Ron) O’Shea; step-granddaughter, Leslie (Rex) Crabtree; twenty great-grandchildren; nine step-great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Mary attended school at Centertown but did not graduate due to dropping out to marry Jesse. She later earned her GED and worked several years at the Colonial Shirt Factory in Woodbury and Smithville. She was also a homemaker and babysitter for children in the neighborhood, and a member of Centertown Church of Christ.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026 in High’s Chapel with Bob McDoniel officiating. Burial will follow in Unity Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at High’s.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Unity Cemetery Fund or Alzheimer’s of Tennessee.

Mary’s family wishes to acknowledge Gentiva Hospice for the care they provided, with a special thank you to Emily and Marilyn. They also appreciate the friendship and care provided by Sue Reed.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

Main Street Journal

May 23, 2026