Obituary of Mary Ellen (Craven) Schmitt

Mary Ellen (Craven) Schmitt, age 93, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 15, 2022. She was the daughter of the late Thomas Craven and Virginia Robinson Craven of Walterboro, SC. She was predeceased by her parents; younger brother, Thomas Craven; her two daughters, Janice Bell and Paula Mayfield, and Paula’s husband, Michael Mayfield.

Mary Ellen is survived by her two daughters, Joyce (Sam Bookhart) Crosby of Gaston, SC and Gail (Eddie) Epting of Chapin, SC; three step-children, Patty (Lloyd) Ward, Donna Jo Thomas, and Margie Hillis; seven grandchildren, Lisa (John) Smith, Jennifer (Johnnie) Oswald, Michael (Kerri) Bell, Crystal (John) Wallace, Erin (Preston) Davis, Wil Mayfield, and Kayla (Kevin) Pharis; as well as twenty-five great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Originally from Walterboro, SC, Mary was a product of the Colleton County School System. She worked for many years as a seamstress, and later in life as a caregiver to many children. She was considered an adopted grandmother to many. 

Her legacy is truly in her family and the memories they are left to cherish. She is remembered for her spunk and incredible sense of humor. Her family is grateful for her 93 years of life and the lasting impact she has had on all of them. The family would like to thank the staff of the Lowman Home in White Rock, SC for their loving care during Mary’s final days.

The family will receive friends at Woodridge Memorial Park and Funeral Home in Lexington, SC, on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 1:00 pm with service to follow at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lowman Home.