Mary C. Hepburn

Mary Elizabeth Cater Hepburn transitioned from earth to her heavenly home on December 3, 2022.  Mary was greeted by her parents and her loving husband, Henry, who predeceased her on May 17, 2018. 

Mary Elizabeth, the only child of Allie Mae and Edward Cater, was born in Abbeville, SC.  Mary’s formal education began in Abbeville where she attended elementary school and graduated with honors from high school.  She attended South Carolina State College (now University) where she was awarded a degree in psychology.  Later, she earned a graduate degree from Howard University.

Mary thoroughly embraced her career as a guidance counselor, progressing to Director of Guidance at South Florence High School.   She was dedicated to her students and enabling them to use their talents was her ministry.  Even after she retired, former students would greet her with a smile when meeting her out and about in the community. 

Mary always talked about the wonderful life she and Henry enjoyed.  They were married for more than 50 years and were true soulmates.  Through Henry’s employment with Amtrak, they travelled by rail extensively.  Mary especially looked forward to their adventures during her summer breaks from school.  

Mary and Henry were very active citizens, participating in numerous organizations and activities uplifting the quality of life in their community.  They were faithful members of St. John’s Episcopal Church where she sang in the choir.  The couple were ardent supporters of the Florence Little Theatre and Mary formerly sat on their Board of Directors.  She was also a former member of the Voorhees College (now University) Board of Visitors.  She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.    

Cherished memories of Mary will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved her deeply - godson: James L. (Chipper) Smith, II; stepdaughter: Barbara Hepburn Ford of Prince George, Virginia; cousins, Elizabeth McCann, Fannie Tate, Dedra of Delaware and Carolyn of Abbeville, South Carolina ; nephews: Malcolm Hepburn of Asheville, North Carolina, Gregory Hepburn and Frank Cail of Tampa, Florida; nieces: Debra Bailey, Carolyn Collins, Alva Williams and Ronnie Rodriques of Tampa, Florida; loyal friends: Felicia Todd, Earnestine Smith, Delores Hammond, Clotilda Diggs, Lynn Author, and Ray and Mary Ann Baggett.  Heartfelt appreciation is extended to Mary’s compassionate caregivers:  Mae Bailey, Brandy Dickson, Wanda Fleming, Margaret Wallace, Roena McCall, Helena Graham, Gwen Dixon and Mamie McDaniel.

The family will receive friends daily from 2 PM - 6 PM at 707 Maynard Avenue, Florence.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested in Mary's memory to St. John's Episcopal Church,  252 S. Dargan Street, Florence, SC 29506 or Florence Little Theatre, P.O. Box 4029, Florence, SC 29502.

Please keep the family of Mary C. Hepburn in your thoughts and prayers.