Marilyn’s Merry Goody Bags: A White & Allen Tradition of Giving

Each Christmas season, kindness takes center stage at White & Allen, P.A., thanks to a special tradition led by one of our own—Marilyn Johnson, a beloved member of our Administrative Department. What began as a simple act of generosity has grown into a meaningful firm-wide effort that touches the lives of seniors in our community and reflects the heart of who we are at White & Allen.

Marilyn’s Merry Goody Bags were created with one simple purpose: to ensure that seniors who may feel forgotten or alone during the holidays know they are loved, remembered, and valued. This year, that purpose came to life once again as White & Allen staff, clients, friends, and community partners joined together to help fill 50 Merry Goody Bags for residents at Harmony Hall and Signature HealthCare of Kinston.

Throughout December, donation boxes at our Kinston office filled quickly with thoughtful items—cozy socks and gloves, blankets, sweet treats, toiletries, coloring books, word search puzzles, and other comforting necessities. Every item was chosen with care, each one meant to bring warmth, joy, and a smile to someone on Christmas Day.

A few days before Christmas, the spirit of the season was on full display as White & Allen “elves” gathered to help Marilyn assemble the bags. With laughter, teamwork, and plenty of holiday cheer, the bags were filled and prepared for delivery. Marilyn, along with her trusted side-kick Angie Carter, delivered the goody bags just in time for Christmas, sharing not only gifts, but genuine human connection.

The heart behind Marilyn’s Merry Goody Bags is deeply personal. Growing up as one of twelve children, Marilyn learned early the importance of love, faith, and family. Later in life, when her mother battled dementia, Marilyn and her siblings lovingly cared for her until the end. That experience left a lasting impression and inspired Marilyn to give back to seniors who may not have family nearby—especially during the holidays.

What started as Marilyn’s quiet act of kindness has become a cherished White & Allen tradition, reminding us all that small gestures can make a profound difference.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated, volunteered, and supported Marilyn’s Merry Goody Bag drive this year. Your generosity helped ensure that 50 seniors felt remembered, cared for, and celebrated this Christmas.

From the White & Allen family, we wish our friends at Harmony Hall and Signature HealthCare of Kinston—and our entire community—a very Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with hope and joy.