Mary E. McMillian

Mother Mary E. McMillian , 77, was born May 22, 1947, in Florence County. She was the daughter of the late James Moses and Millie McMillian. She departed this life on Thursday October 3, 2024. 

Mother Mary received her formal education in the Public Schools of Florence, SC. She was a graduate of Wilson High School, Class of 1965. She moved to Philadelphia after high school, where she worked at Strawbridge Store. She later moved back to Florence, SC as one of the First Black Female Telecommunications Operator with AT&T formally known as Southern Bell; Mary worked at AT&T for more than 30 years. Following retirement, she was employed with Kmart and later Florence County Treasurer's Office. Mary worked for Florence County Treasurer's Office for over 15 years. Mary enjoyed spending time with her Family, Baking, Shopping with ShaunTai , Spoiling Khalil and reading her bible. One of her favorite quotes was " If you're gonna do something, do it right, or don't do it at all".

At an early age, Mary was converted, joined, and baptized at Majority Baptist Church in Florence, SC. After moving to Columbia, SC, Mary joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Cayce, SC. Upon moving back to Florence, SC, Mary was a devoted member of Open-Door Missionary Baptist Church. Where she was a member of the Choir, Pastor’s Aide Organization, Trustee Board and Usher Board. 

In addition to her parents, Mother Mary was preceded in death by her only aunt, Sadie McMillian Robinson; a cousin Jackie Robinson; an uncle Zola McMillian; and two aunts Willie McMillian and Catherine McMillian Parrott.

Mother Mary leaves to cherish her loving and precious memories; one daughter ShaunTai McMillian of Atlanta, GA, one grandson whom she absolutely adores Khalil Mayo of Atlanta, GA, five nieces, Natashia (Andy) McMillian-Heggins, Cher Harvey of Baltimore, Maryland, Anastacia (Jarvis) Simon, Tifani (Apostle Jeremiah) Merritt and Millicent (Markee) Hamlin of Florence, SC; two nephews, Nicholas and Justin McMillian of Florence, SC; one godson, Khartoume Robinson of Atlanta, GA; one special cousin, Catherine Wilson; one adopted niece, Catherine Crawford and a host of other relatives, extended church family and friends.

The family will receive friends 4 PM - 8 PM Friday, October 11, 2024 at 616 West Sumter Street, Florence, SC.

In lieu of flowers, please make monetary donations to ShaunTai McMillian.

Please keep the family of Mary Edith McMillian in your thoughts and prayers.