Mary Carolyn Waller Hedrick
Mary Carolyn Waller Tate, a beloved Mother, Grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of love, memories, and a family who will forever cherish her. She was the heart and soul of her family, especially during the years following her husband’s passing in 2000.
Mary Carolyn was born on October 20, 1940, in Nathalie, Virginia, where she spent her early years. In 1958, she moved to Danville, Virginia, where she met her husband and raised their family.
On June 29, 1963, she married the love of her life, Alfred Dale Hedrick. Together, they shared 37 years of marriage until his passing on August 30, 2000. Mary Carolyn and Alfred were not only husband and wife but also partners in life and business. Together, they owned and operated the Kwik Shop on 58 East and later opened The Olde Well in Nor Dan Shopping Center and the Ice Cream Churn in Piedmont Mall. Her hard work, determination, and love for the people she served reflected the remarkable woman she was.
After many years of owning her own businesses, Mary Carolyn began working at Kentuck Grocery, where she remained until the age of 80. She was known for her strong work ethic, warm smile, and the many friendships she formed throughout the years.
Mary Carolyn was a member of Ringgold Baptist Church.
Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She is survived by her children, Tracy Len Hedrick (Teresa), Teresa Laine Hedrick Tate (Jody), and Todd Lindley Hedrick (Melissa); her sister, Margie Walton; and her brother, Marvin Waller (Carolyn). She leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild, with another great-great grandchild on the way.
She was predeceased in death by her beloved husband, Alfred Dale Hedrick; her parents, Ocie and Lily Waller; her oldest son, Terry; her great grandson, Mason; four sisters; and one brother.
Mary Carolyns’s life was one of love, family, faith, hard work, and devotion. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her memory will live on through the many lives she touched and through the generations of her family who carry her love with them.
“A life well lived leaves behind a legacy of love that never dies.”
A Funeral Service will be conducted on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 11:00am at Norris West End Chapel, Danville, VA with Pastor Daryl Joyce officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Danville Memorial Gardens. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 from 6-7:30pm, also at Norris West End Chapel, Danville, VA. At other times the family will receive friends at the residence at 17389 Franklin Turnpike, Callands, VA 24530.
Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory, Mt. Hermon Chapel, Danville, VA is respectfully serving the Hedrick Family. Online condolences may be made at www.norrisfuneral.com.
