I was born in the southern hills
A ways from town
I was raised to love only one to call my wife
To sleep beside at night
And wake up right by her side
Oh Mary, love abides
Oh Mary, love abides
I grew up in that ol' city
Ways were different
A lonesome fills my every night
Emptiness by my side
Oh Mary, love abides
Oh Mary, love abides
I will die turn into dust
A ways from town
My past is old and black as Gunga Din
Her mem'ry's sweet and young as Magdelene
Oh Mary, love abides
Oh Mary, love abides
(Repeat Chorus)