Hattie Mae

It is with heavy hearts and profound admiration that we announce the passing of Hattie Mae, a cherished matriarch whose life was a testament to strength, love, and unwavering grace. Born on August 24, 1927, in the warm and welcoming town of Yemassee, South Carolina, Hattie Mae was a beacon of kindness and resilience throughout her 99 remarkable years. Hattie Mae peacefully departed this world on September 22, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family, leaving behind a legacy enriched by her dedication to family and community. She was the beloved daughter of the late John and Mary Smith, from whom she inherited a spirit of generosity and warmth that she carried with her throughout her life. Her journey was marked by the joys and trials of raising a family, and though she endured the profound loss of her sons, Willie Behlin, Leroy Wiley, John Wayne Smith and her only daughter Sarah Lee Orr, she continued to be the cornerstone of her family's foundation. Her strength and wisdom guided her over 40 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and many great-great grandchildren each of whom carry forward her enduring legacy of compassion and integrity. As we reflect on Hattie Mae's extraordinary life, we remember a woman whose gentle spirit touched the hearts of many. Her laughter, her stories, and her unwavering love will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who were privileged to know her. In loving memory of Hattie Mae, a life beautifully lived and a soul eternally loved. May she rest in peace.