Lena Mae Law

Lena Mae Smalls Law, the daughter of the Late Louis Nathaniel Smalls and the Late Sarah Garland Smalls was born February 27, 1938 in Mars Bluff, South Carolina in the midst of a lovely, caring and close-knit Christian family. On Thursday, March 25, 2021, she went from labour to rewards.

Lena was affectionately known by immediate family members as Frick and Mae-Mae. She was educated in the public schools of Florence County and graduated in 1956 from Wilson High School. She was a superb basketball player with the Lady Tigers and was inducted into the Wilson High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame. Lena never forgot her ties to Wilson High School. She often shared stories with her children and others about the Class of ’56 and her love of basketball. Lena was also a graduated of Chris Logan Beauty College and was a licensed Cosmetologist.

Lena was the third born of four children. Lena was one of God’s masterpieces and the backbone of the family. Lena’s faith ministered to God’s people in a manner that conveyed her passion and love for God as well as her compassion for people. She loved God with all her heart and her lifestyle demonstrated just that. She was an avid member of Wilson High Alumni Association. Lena’s faith in Christ possessed the kind of qualities with the kind of values that would nurture all of us. Her brilliance, her brightness, her boldness, her service, her sacrifice and her sharing has given to all people the power and perseverance to deal with the vicissitudes of life and turn them into victories. Lena had a contagious personality. She was very caring, an exceptional listener, always encouraging and extremely patient and understanding. Lena enjoyed traveling, shopping, and spending time with her children and family.

Lena accepted Christ into her life at an early age and joined Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in Mars Bluff. On September 30, 1957 Lena married the love of her life, Joseph “Bae-Bae” Law Jr.

Lena was a pillar and the matriarch of the family. She served her biological family and church family in a manner that can only be described as an unselfish quiver who asked for nothing in return. She was a woman of faith and strength. She stood on what she believed. Lena’s outlook on life was to live her life and acknowledge God in every aspect of it. She believed that God and family was very important, and she was always willing to sacrifice herself to family and friends. She brought smiles and joy to those who were in need. Her smile was infectious. Lena loved unconditionally and she will be greatly missed.

Lena was employed by Wentworth, Shaw, and General Electric. After retirement, Lena enjoyed traveling and spending quality time with family. Lena was the founder and a life-long member of the Socialites Club (60 years of existence), a member of United Order of Tents Florence Southern District 4 Ashley-Adams Tent. She was a sesquicentennial member of Trinity Baptist Church (for over 50 years). She served as a member of the Usher Board, and a Unit Leader Missionary. Lena found it a joy to be a member of the Florence Leatherman Senior Center and Weed and Seed.

Lena was a dedicated and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. With a caring spirit, she claimed many as her “adoptive” children for whom she often prepared meals for family gatherings. She valued spending time with her close-knit family. She had a very positive disposition and always a warm smile for everyone she encountered. She was a tireless and diligent worker who did not grow weary in well doing. Lena’s physical presence will truly be missed by her all. Lena left a lasting impression on those who adored her. She devoted a tremendous amount of time, providing encouragement and helping others with life concerns. Lena possessed all the characteristics of a virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31.

Lena was preceded in death by her parents; love of her life, Joseph “Bae-Bae” Law, Jr.; sister, Cora Elizabeth Smalls; grandparents; and many other family members.

Lena leaves to celebrate her life: two loving sons, Michael T. Law and Reverend Terry Bernard (Phyllis) Law, Sr.; a devoted daughter, Jolette D. Law; a sister, Dorothy Smalls Williams of Baltimore, MD; a brother, Frank C. Smalls of Florence, South Carolina; three wonderful grandchildren, Terlisa (Mel) Packer, Terry (Johnelle) Law, Jr., and Tevin Law; two great-grandchildren, Tori and Zuri Law; two sisters-in-law, Bettye Law Hennigan and Shirley Law; two brothers-in-law, Joseph Reyes and Samuel James; and a host of nieces, nephews, adoptive children, relatives, and friends. She was a kind, loving individual who impacted many lives all throughout the community.

Please keep the family of Mrs. Lena Mae Smalls Law in your thoughts and prayers.