Mary Lea (Mills) Barton

Mary Lea Barton, 87 of Tomahawk, Ky passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on May 20, 2025, at Highlands ARH of Prestonsburg, Ky. Mary leaves a legacy of at least 150 grandchildren spanning over grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Her legacy will continue for generations to come. Mary was born to Hershel Mills and Attie Mollett of Davisport, Ky, on March 22, 1938. Mary was a head start aid for the Martin County School System for many years as well a nurse's aide at many nursing homes in KY & OH. In addition to her parents, Mary is proceeded in death by her late husband of 27 years, William H. Barton. Three sons, Kenneth L. Barton, William H. "Bill" Barton, Jr. and Daniel R. Barton. Two grandchildren, Tamara Litton and Rosa Litton. One grandson, Phillip Butcher. Two sisters, Francis Runyon and Sandra K. Johnson. Three brothers, Carlos Mills, James Wheeler Mills and Don Mills. Mary leaves behind her 6 children. Della Barton Sherman of Boonescamp, Ky. Sandra (Randall) Barton Spence of Tomahawk, Ky. Maudie Barton Litton Spence (special friend Bill Bowen) of Tomahawk, Ky. Judy Barton (and special friend Ernie Hurt) of Floyd County, Ky. Carlos Barton of Tomahawk, Ky and Timothy Barton of Boonescamp, Ky. As well as three brothers. Archie (Lou Carol) Mills of Springfield, Oh. John Mills of Tomahawk, Ky and Clarence Mills of Tomahawk, Ky. As well as a host of nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

A special thank you to Kristyn Sherman Staton, one of Mary’s many beloved grandchildren who spent the last 2 years working at the Martin County Health Care Facility where Mary resided. Kristyn would check in on Mary every day, spending time with her, making sure Mary was well taken care of. Mary loved her Shea-Bug and wouldn’t want her commitment to her to go unnoticed.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at 2 PM, in the chapel of Crum Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Barton Cemetery in Tomahawk, Ky. Friends may visit the funeral home on Friday, May 23rd, and Saturday, May 24th, from 4 PM to 9 PM. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home of Inez, KY. 

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