Margaret Leverne Conerly, affectionately known as "Coot," was born on July 31, 1949, in Norway, South Carolina to Annie and the late Marion Jamison. She peacefully departed this life on November 26, 2024, in Columbia, South Carolina surrounded by her loved ones. Her journey on this earth was marked by a profound faith in God, a deep love for her family, and a legacy of kindness and service that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Margaret's spiritual journey began at an early age when she received Christ at Cedar Grove Baptist Church in Norway, South Carolina. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through every challenge and triumph. In Columbia, she became a devoted member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the usher board and as treasurer until her health no longer permitted. Her dedication to her church community was a testament to her unwavering faith and commitment to serving others.
Margaret was a trailblazer in her community, becoming the first woman bus driver in Norway, South Carolina. Her pioneering spirit and determination were evident in all aspects of her life. She graduated from Norfield High School in the class of 1967, where she excelled in sports, playing basketball, softball, and track. Her athletic prowess was recently celebrated when she and her team were honored for winning a basketball championship, a testament to her enduring spirit and competitive nature.
Margaret was a woman of many talents and interests, but above all, she was known for her kindness, generosity, and compassion. Her family-oriented nature was evident in the love and care she showed to her husband, children, grandchildren, and extended family. She was a devoted wife to Larry J. Conerly, whom she married on January 5, 1974. Together, they raised their children, James Conerly Sr. and Tesa Conerly, imparting to them a strong reverence for both faith and family.
Her grandchildren, James Conerly Jr., Rodrekez Lemon, Jaquan Conerly, Yazmin Lewis, and Aukaceon Conerly, were the light of her life. Margaret's love for her family extended beyond her immediate circle, as she cherished her siblings, LaTrell Jamison, Matthew (Queen) Jamison, Leon (Anita) Jamison, Robert Jamison, and Trina (Abraham) Johnson. Her god-daughter, Audrey Jamison, and her dear niece and nephew, LaTanya Dukes and LeRone Jamison, held a special place in her heart. Margaret's love and warmth touched a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, creating a legacy of love that will endure for generations.
Margaret was preceded in death by her beloved siblings, Willie Jamison and Bernard Jamison. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit lives on in the memories and stories shared by her family and friends.
Throughout her life, Margaret faced challenges with grace and resilience, including her battle with dementia and congestive heart failure. Her unwavering faith provided her with strength and comfort, and she remained a beacon of hope and love to those around her. Her life was a testament to the power of faith, love, and perseverance, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
As we remember Margaret, we find solace in the knowledge that she is now at peace, resting in the arms of her Savior. Her life was a beautiful reflection of her faith, and her memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration to her family and friends. We celebrate her life, her love, and her unwavering faith, knowing that she is now reunited with her loved ones in the eternal embrace of God's love.
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