Mary Means

Obituary For Mary Means

Mary Elizabeth Oglesby Means, 73, of Spartanburg, SC, was born on July 31, 1951, to the late Mr. R.G. and Mrs. Vertie Mae Gaffney Oglesby. On Thursday, January 23, 2025, she peacefully departed her earthly home to rest eternally in her heavenly home, surrounded by the comforts of her marital residence.

Mary was united in holy matrimony to the late Minister Samuel William Means, with whom she shared 46 beautiful years of love, faith, and service. Together, they lived a life dedicated to the Lord and their church community. She was preceded in death by her
husband, Minister Samuel William Means, as well as her siblings: Mrs. Clara M. Palmer, Mrs. Edna E. Johnson, Mrs. Martha L. Haywood, and Mr. John H. Oglesby, Mr. Richard Buford Haywood, and Mr. Lewis Haywood.

Mary was a graduate of Benjamin E. Mays High School in Pacolet, SC, where she excelled as a star basketball player. Raised in a Christian home, she gave her life to Christ at an early age and joined Island Creek Baptist Church in Cowpens, SC, where she was baptized. After marriage, she transitioned her membership to Sigsbee Church of Christ in
Spartanburg, SC. There, Mary faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, Ladies Bible Study Leader, and a warm and welcoming greeter for every churchgoer.

When her husband accepted his call into the ministry, Mary embraced the role of “Minister’s Wife” at Sigsbee Church of Christ, a position she held with grace and humility for over 37 years. Known for her radiant smile and welcoming spirit, Mary never
met a stranger. To a few, she was respectfully known as “Sweet Mama. To many, she became “Auntie;” and, to countless others, she was simply “Mom,” a role that perfectly embodied her initials, M.O.M. Mary truly was a mother to all, offering love, guidance,
and support to everyone she encountered.

She leaves behind a profound legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories. Left to honor
her life are: her devoted niece and caregiver, Ms. Sheila Yvett Johnson of the home; a sister, Judy Wilkins; brothers, Mr. Lewis Oglesby (Corrie) and Mr. Robert Haywood; and her aunts, Mrs. Willie Mae Simpson, Mrs. Elizabeth Meadows, Mrs. Naomi Hardy, Ms. Pauline Artist; and Mrs. Mary Helen Oglesby. She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters-in-laws: Mrs. Margie Johnson Oglesby,
Minsiter Brenda (Larry) Manley, Mrs. Carolyn (Johnny) Graham, Mrs. Dorothy Means, Mrs. Caponia Blackley, and Mrs. Edith Mitchell. Additionally, one brother-in-law, Mr. Archie (Mary) Means, Sr.

Mary’s extended family of Godchildren, spiritual children, nieces, nephews, and countless
friends are left to treasure her warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those she
loved.

Her life was a shining testament to faith, love, and service. She will be deeply missed but
forever fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 12:00 noon at Drayton Mills Church of Christ, Spartanburg, SC. Burial will be in the Lincoln Memorial Gardens, Spartanburg, SC.