Ms. Mary Short

Mary Carolyn Short, affectionately known as MC, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on October 15, 1950 in Martinsville, Virginia to Christine Potter Alcorn, then later adopted by Mary Davis. MC’s journey took her from Virginia to California to Detroit, Michigan back to California and finally to South Carolina, where she left an unforgettable mark on the literary and cultural landscape.

MC was a luminary in the world of poetry, beginning her illustrious career with the publication of her work in the literary review, Sisters~Nineties, in 1991. For 17 years, until the publication’s cessation in 2008, MC’s voice was a staple, touching hearts and igniting minds. Her commitment to the literary community was further evidenced by her hosting of two Sisters~Nineties Literary Group reunions in Columbia, South Carolina. These gatherings were a testament to her ability to unite writers from across the globe for poetry workshops and readings, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Beyond her literary contributions, MC was a beacon of community activism and education. She founded a branch of the Sisters~Nineties Literary Group in Columbia, along with its youth outreach program, The Yari Yari Writers and ICAN. MC’s dedication to empowering the next generation led her to run several poetry programs and workshops for children in public schools and community settings. She also helped with GED outreach and held several National Night Out programs in Bethel Bishop and Harbison Gardens. Her voice was a familiar and cherished presence on WVCg, where she shared her poetry and insights as a monthly guest on the Don Frierson show.

MC’s passion for culture and history was evident in her involvement with the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations, the Kemetic Institute of Wellness and Human Development, and her active membership in the United Citizens Party of South Carolina. Her work in voter registration campaigns and community Kwanzaa programming underscored her commitment to the liberation and empowerment of African people.

MC joined the Village of Hope Fellowship Church in 1997 and served selflessly as the Church Historian, Chairperson of the Usher Board, and Co-Chair of the Village of Hope Youth Ministry. She coordinated the annual Kwanzaa Observance and served on the Benevolence Committee.  She also passionately taught lessons in both Sunday School and Vacation Bible School.

Mary is survived by her sons, Harold C. (Terrie) Davis II and Francis (La’Toyia) Davis; grandchildren, Jeffrey (Carri) Tucker, Darrell (Thiopia) Stack, Cherise (Kyle Kaetzel) Davis, Louvenia Davis, Aidan Watson, Alycia Davis and Alaina Davis; great-grandchildren, Kyia, Jalen, Kalei, and Jared Tucker, Cameron and Dakatur Stack, Christian Davis, and Greyson Kaetzel; newphew, Jalani (Angela) Martin and their children, Dikymbe, Akilah, and Malik (Terri) Martin, brother-in-law, Joseph (Margaret) Davis; loving friends, Laura Myers, Sharon Rabb, Debra (Henry) Morrow Lovin, Charles P. Austin Sr,  Seitu Amenwahsu, Bernett Gallman, Don Frierson, Curtis Wilson, Bob Coble, Kimberly Hunter McGraw,  Johnny Green, Leslie Whitley, Daryl Keen,  and Larry (Sharon) Salley; and a host of other loving family and friends. 

Mary’s family was the joy of her life, and her legacy of love, creativity, and community activism will live on through them.

MC’s journey may have ended, but her spirit, teachings, and love for her community will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ms. Mary Short, please visit our floral store.