Mary's Pit BBQ

Mary's Pit BBQ Hickory Smoked Since 1958
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It has come to our attention that some unfair accusations are being posted on the community page. For the sake ...
03/15/2026

It has come to our attention that some unfair accusations are being posted on the community page. For the sake of full transparency, we would like to share the current situation regarding Mary’s.

The GoFundMe was originally created to help cover the costs associated with demolition, a possible rebuild, and the loss of income after the closure.

The insurance payout was approximately $30,000. The GoFundMe raised about $15,000, after fees were deducted, and an additional $3,500 was generously donated by Ryland Pike Farmers Market, Rocket City Poppers, and LawLers. The match of $5,000 from Sinaird Law Firm and $500 from Huntsville Explorer is included in the $15,000 GoFundMe funds.

Of the insurance funds, roughly $12,000 went toward taxes, including sales tax, employee taxes, and property taxes.

The $3,500 in direct donations was used to cover outstanding bills and help offset the loss of income during the first couple of months following the closure.

The demolition of the building cost $6,900, which was paid using GoFundMe funds. At this time, approximately $8,600 remains in that account. Those funds will not be used for anything other than rebuilding costs if and when that time comes, or potentially toward purchasing a food truck.

The accusations being shared are both hurtful and far from the truth. Our family would absolutely love to see Mary’s open again, and we remain hopeful that one day it will be.

We are incredibly grateful for the support this community has shown throughout this difficult time.

12/17/2025

I’ve waited before responding publicly because there is no quick or easy way to put this loss into words.
The fire at Mary’s BBQ didn’t just take a building. It took decades of memories, family history, hard work, and my livelihood. For me, this wasn’t just a business, it was my past, my present, and the life I worked every day to hold together. The emotional toll has been heavy, and navigating grief, shock, and uncertainty takes time. Mary’s was a family business, and for many years it was run day-to-day by me alongside a small crew who became family.
I want to clearly address the questions surrounding donations. The GoFundMe funds are fully accounted for. Right now, our focus is on the remaining cleanup and determining what is realistically possible moving forward. Whether or not rebuilding a brick & mortar building is possible has not yet been decided.
I understand how much Mary’s meant to this community, and I’m deeply grateful for the love, support, prayers, and patience that have been shown. I kindly ask for grace as we take the time needed to make thoughtful, responsible decisions during an incredibly painful chapter.

Thank you for standing with us and for respecting the space it takes to heal and plan.

— April

Address

179 Hurricane Creek Road
Gurley, AL
35748

Opening Hours

Thursday 10am - 7pm
Friday 10am - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 7pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

+12567764893

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