From a recording on YouTube by Mel Tillis:


I HAVEN'T SEEN MARY IN YEARS
Damon Black

While walking one day in the country, I saw a gathering crowd,
And as my footsteps drew me closer, I smelled the sweet fragrance of flowers.
It looked like a family reunion, had my eyes not counted the tears.
An old man sat by a graveside. I haven't seen Mary in years

CHORUS: Hold my hand and lead me. Lead me away from here.
I just brought these flowers for Mary. I haven't seen Mary in years.

When Mary and I were first married, we had such plans for our child,
But for no reason I started rambling. Like the four winds I just ran wild.
If I could just live my life over, I would bring Mary such cheers.
Now she's gone where she'll never need me. I haven't seen Mary in years.

CHORUS.

Then the old man left the graveyard, and I walked along by his side.
I called out his name, but through all his shame, his son he did not recognize.

LAST CHORUS: Hold to my hand and lead me. Lead me away from here.
How could I know it was Mama? I haven't seen Mama in years.


[Recorded by Bill Monroe, Mel Tillis, Porter Wagoner and a few others.]