Hattie Lou Cunningham Murcier, 101 years old, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully in Greenwood, SC, on November 29, 2024. Born on January 22, 1923, in Parksville, SC, Hattie was the daughter of the late Rosa Lee Cunningham and Whitfield Cunningham.

Hattie’s upbringing on a farm instilled in her a strong work ethic. From a young age, she contributed fully to the work on the farm. By the age of 10, she was cooking meals for her family, a dedication to hard work that continued throughout her life. Her love of cooking was her greatest passion, and it was a natural fit for her to work as a lunchroom cook for the local school. There, she formed lasting, loving relationships with students, co-workers, and teachers. She possessed the spiritual gift of encouragement. To this day, many former students and church members affectionately refer to her as “Mom,” because of her unique ability to make others feel loved and valued.

Hattie was bold in her faith and truly demonstrated her love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She joined Mt. Moriah Baptist Church as a youth. Hattie served in many capacities, including as a missionary member, deaconess, and Mother of the Church for 11 years. As there were no public schools for blacks in McCormick, S.C. during her youth, Black churches provided education for their children. Therefore, Hattie received her early education at the Mt. Moriah church school. She received training in the National Youth Administration Program enacted during the Great Depression by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. As an adult, she went to night school at McCormick High. At Mt. Moriah church school, she met James Murcier, a 4th grader, when she was in the 3rd grade. Their friendship blossomed into a courtship as they grew older, but it was interrupted by James’s service in World War II. Despite the distance and time apart, Hattie remained steadfast, continuing her daily activities on the farm, school when farm work permitted, and within her community. When James returned from the war, their love rekindled, and they were married on November 10, 1946. Together, they raised two sons and seven daughters, though their firstborn, Whitfield, was stillborn.

Hattie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Murcier; her parents; six brothers—Robert Lee Cunningham, William Cunningham, Walter Cunningham, Whitfield Cunningham, Clarence Cunningham, James Cunningham, and one grandson reared in the home-Clement Cunningham; three sisters—Eva Blackwell, Janie Ryan, and Clara Blair; and three sons-in-law — Willie Fuller, Kenneth Lanier, and Stephen Murray. She was the last member of her immediate family.

She is survived by her nine children, who were the pride and joy of her life. Rose Murcier Fuller of Columbia, SC; Willie Mae Murcier Lanier of Greenwood, SC; Carrie Murcier (Frank) Brunson of Dallas, TX; David (Annie Ruth) Murcier of Troy, SC; Linda Murcier Murray of McCormick, SC; Judy Murcier Gilchrist of McCormick, SC; Jimmy (Gloria) Murcier of Hampton, SC; Barbara Murcier (Thurmond) Bowens of Columbia, SC; and Maria Murcier (Howard) Ashley of Marietta, GA. In addition to her children, her legacy of faith, prayer, integrity, and the love of family and laughter continues through her 21 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Hattie will also be lovingly remembered by her numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends, all of whom will hold her memory close in their hearts.

Hattie’s life was a testament to God’s Grace, the power of love and family. Her strength, grace, and gentle spirit touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.