Mary Lee Whittington Rabalais was born September 24, 1937, to Clarence and Lila Mae Whittington in Lafayette, Louisiana. She earned her Associate Degree in Secretarial Science from Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute, now University of Louisiana Lafayette.
She met and married Lawrence Rabalais of Simmesport, Louisiana, and they made their home together in St. Louis, then Memphis, and finally Vicksburg, Mississippi.

While raising their four children, Mary drove untold miles to school, lessons, practices, games, meets, and meetings. She encouraged curiosity, creativity, and independence in her children and always stressed the importance of education. She shared her love of books and reading with her children and grandchildren with countless hours of quality laptime.  Mary was an avid bowler for nearly all of her adult life. She was a talented and creative home sewer.  She loved, in no particular order, grandchildren, animals, babies, chocolate, ice cream, crossword puzzles, walking through her neighborhood, and quiet time with a good book.

Mary gave her time and talents through many years as a volunteer at St. Francis Elementary and St. Aloysius High School as her children grew, at St. Paul Catholic Church, and at River Region Medical Center's gift shop.

Mary is survived by her spouse of more than 60 years, Lawrence A. Rabalais; her children Mark (Teresa), Clare (Gordon), Victor (Kris), and Ruth (Gene); her grandchildren Audrey (Tyler), Adam (Alexandra), Katherine, Erin (Patrick), Emily, Seth, and Lauren; and her great grandchildren Shiloh, Colt, and Emilia. She is also survived by beloved nephew and near son, John Eric Rabalais, as well as many well loved and numerous nieces and nephews to whom she was often referred as "Aunt Merrily."

Mary regretfully leaves behind her younger siblings Kenneth Whittington, Martha Jane Whittington, and Robert Whittington, their families, and her many relatives.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 22,2023 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 713 Crawford Street, Vicksburg, MS 39180 with Rev. Rusty Vincent officiating. Visitation will be from 9-10 a.m. Tuesday at Fisher-Riles Funeral Home, 5000 Indiana Ave. Vicksburg, MS 39180.