Mary Lucille Worthington, 98, of Wilmington, passed away from this life to her eternal rest on Monday, May 8th, 2023. She is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.

She was born on May 30th, 1924, in Montague, Pender County, NC; the daughter of Zeb Vance Vernon and Myrtle Herring Vernon. Lucille was preceded in death by her husband, Homer Keith Worthington, son Gene Worthington, daughter-in-law, Myrtle and granddaughter, Jennifer Ann Worthington, son, Keith Worthington, and daughter-in-law Faye Worthington, brother, Vance Vernon and sister, Violet Rae Vernon.

Lucille is survived by her daughters, Mary Daniels (Ray) of Wilmington, Janet Perryman (David) of Houston, TX, estranged daughter Nelda Johnson (Joe), and estranged son, Barry Worthington of Florida. Seven grandchildren, Michele Worthington of SC, Madeline Daniel Woodard (Chris), Matthew Daniel, Jeremiah Worthington (Shelly) of Louisiana, Brian Johnson (Nicole) of Wilmington, Alan Johnson, and Stephen Johnson. Five great grandchildren; Alexandra, Katherine, Grant, Madison, and Graelyn.

Lucille was a faithful servant of God most recently as a member of Fellowship Baptist Church. She was a charter member of Murray Memorial Baptist Church and served as a treasurer, clerk, and Sunday school teacher for many years. Lucille also sang the gospel as a member of 2 choirs. She also worshipped at Olivet Baptist Church in her early years. She enjoyed spending time with her church families, many of which she became life-long friends with. Lucille loved reading her Bible and had read through it more than once. She had many favorite verses one of which is DEUTERONOMY 31:8: "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Lucille worked for many years at Cox Christian Bookstore, she was also employed by Belk's. Lucille was an avid reader and had her own "book club" with a group of friends who exchanged books and often would be reading more than one book at a time. She loved playing Scrabble and spent countless hours with her grandchildren playing at the dining room table. She loved gardening and the largest, most beautiful Azaleas in the neighborhood.

An informal visitation is planned from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm Friday, May 12, 2023, at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Wilmington with Pastor Arnold Griffin of Fellowship Baptist Church officiating.