Anita McNellage

Anita McNellage, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, at the age of 65. Anita was born on September 28, 1960, in Buffalo, New York, to Edith Tisdale and Richard James. She grew up surrounded by the love of her parents and her siblings, and those relationships were a cornerstone throughout her life. Anita was predeceased by her devoted husband, Bentley McNellage, whom she married in a beautiful ceremony in Myrtle Beach, SC, in 2010. Together, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. Anita was also preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Richard; her brothers, Yusuf James and Jamel Hicks, whose memories she cherished deeply. Anita is survived by her loving children, son Joseph Dwayne Coplin of Salters, SC, and daughter Corrinne Coplin of Columbia, SC, who were the pride and joy of her life. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Brittany Gamble, Cayden Coplin, and Johan Matthew Coplin of Cavite, Philippines, and her great-granddaughter, Skylar Williams, whose presence brought Anita immeasurable happiness. Anita is also survived by her siblings, Richard James of Los Angeles, CA, Fareed Hicks and Iman James of Buffalo, NY, Monica Griffin of Buffalo, NY, and Benjamin Mitchell of Arkansas. Her extended family includes aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and a special cousin, Mary Ann Trotter, all of whom held a special place in her heart. Anita shared a deep bond with her special friends, Helen Fluitt and Joann Shaw, who stood by her side throughout her life. A proud graduate of Kensington High School in Buffalo, NY, Anita pursued higher education with dedication and determination. She received an Associate of Business Degree from Erie Community College and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree from Limestone College in South Carolina, ultimately achieving her Master's Degree. Anita’s passion for education and community service was evident in her career as a Special Education Teacher at Lee Middle and High School and Wilson High School. She also served as a Correctional Officer at Turbeville Institution and worked as a School Bus Driver and Transit Driver for Williamsburg County. Her leadership skills were further demonstrated as a manager at various fast-food chains, including McDonald's and Burger King. A woman of faith, Anita was an active member of St. Andrews AME Church in Andrews, SC. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church, as she was an active member of the Red Cross, the NAACP, and the 911 Cert Team, where she served as a lifeguard. Anita’s life was one of community empowerment and connection; she had a natural ability to talk to people, making everyone she met feel special and valued. Anita loved playing bingo and was known affectionately as a "road runner" for her love of travel and adventure. She embraced life with an infectious spirit, always on the go and seeking new experiences. A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor Anita’s life and the profound impact she had on those around her. Her family and friends will gather to celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind, cherishing the memories and love she shared with us all. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Anita’s memory to the Red Cross or the NAACP, organizations that resonated deeply with her commitment to making the world a better place. Anita McNellage’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and service. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.