Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
ULMER - Elizabeth Mae Thompson McMillan “Betty” age 95, passed away peacefully to her Heavenly Father on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025.
Born on November 12, 1929, in Washington, D.C., she was the daughter of the late Mangus and Zelda Thompson.
She married her soulmate, Robert Hampton McMillan, on March 29, 1952, and theirs was a sacred union for 73 years. She is survived by her husband, Robert; her four children, Robbie McMillan (Jami), Mary Beth Peurifoy (Charles), Kathy Norris (Tom), and John Lee McMillan. She was predeceased by her parents, three siblings, and her beloved grandson Charles Ray Peurifoy Jr. “Chuck”. Her legacy includes grandchildren Laura McMillan Poe (Ken) of Ulmer, S.C., Robert Wilson McMillan and Anna McMillan Flippo of North Augusta, S.C. Also, Sarah Peurifoy Norwood (Kevin) of Hartsville, S.C., Emily Norris Harrell (Jeff) of Atlanta, GA, Elizabeth Norris Bell (Matt) and Thomas McMillan Norris (Elizabeth) of Winder, GA. Betty’s treasured family also included six great-grandchildren: Sadie and Carley Norwood; Aubrey, Kinley, Ella, and Owen Flippo.
Betty had known the love of her life, her “Nu-Nu” since high school. After they married and he retired from the Air Force they moved to the family farm in 1955 to raise their children. This past Easter, Betty said, “All I ever wanted to be was a good mama.” A devoted homemaker, she was also multi-talented—a great cook, creative with art and floristry, scout troop leader, Sunday school teacher, substitute county librarian, and high school teacher as the children grew older. Her favorite hobbies were reading the best nonfiction novels, her Book Club, and doing crossword puzzles, but her family was her center and made her world complete.
Betty was one of a kind! She was known for her energy, getting things done, her feisty, vivacious spirit, and for always speaking truth in love. She will be remembered for her devotion to her family. Young children loved her. She could entertain them with countless books, art projects, grass blade whistles, homemade play dough, paper boats, etc. and her natural imagination bringing smiles and joy.
In her last days she was surrounded by her family and visited by her closest friends, which was much appreciated. The family would also like to thank the Hospice team members Cierra Smith, RN, and Dawn Nix, RN for their warm and dedicated care.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Swallow Savannah Methodist Church with Rev. George Hudson officiating. A private graveside service will follow at Great Saltkehatchie Baptist Church Cemetery in Ulmer.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be sent to Great Saltkehatchie Baptist Church Cemetery, P.O. Box 8, Ulmer, S.C. 29849.
Keith Smith Funeral Service, 128 Water Street, Allendale, S.C. is assisting the family with arrangements. Sign the online guestbook at www.keithsmithfuneralservice.com.
