Mary S. Smalls

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 KJV

Mary S. Smalls, the second eldest of ten children born to the late Millard Fillmore and Ethel Smalls, was born on April 27, 1931. She entered into eternal rest on December 22, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York.

Mary received her early education in the Colleton County school system and proudly graduated from Ruffin High School as a member of the Class of 1950. From a young age, she and her sister, Martha, were devoted members of their family church, McCune Branch. Even after relocating to the North, their spiritual bond with McCune Branch remained strong. Mary cherished every opportunity to return home to South Carolina, worship among familiar faces, and reconnect with lifelong friends and loved ones.

While residing in Brooklyn, Mary and Martha became faithful members of Bridge Street A.M.E. Church, where they continued to nurture their faith and community ties. Mary was employed by the State of New York and served diligently as an insurance adjuster until her retirement. She approached her work with dedication and integrity, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

In her leisure time, Mary found joy in simple pleasures—dining out with friends, sharing laughter, and spending meaningful time with her beloved sister Martha, who was not only her sibling but her closest companion.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and eight siblings.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her brother, Mr. Thomas C. Smalls, Sr. of Brooklyn, New York, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Her warmth, grace, and steadfast love will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

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