Harrietta Preacher Allen

Harrietta “Retta” Preacher Allen, 79, of Chapin, passed away peacefully in her sleep November 18, 2024. Retta was predeceased by her husband, Ronald “Ron” Eugene Waldhour five months before. She was also predeceased by her parents, James and Laura Preacher and her brother, James A. Preacher, Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Suzanne Allen Stephens and Laura Allen Baker (Shannon), and her four grandchildren: Evelyn Stephens, Brooke Stephens, Lauren Stephens and Jackson Baker.

Retta was born in Charleston, SC to James A. Preacher, Sr and Laura Hazel Preacher. She attended Bishop England High School. She was a graduate of Columbia College and received her master’s from the University of South Carolina. Retta knew at a very early age that she wanted to be a teacher. She was an avid reader and passed on her love of books to many children. She taught at both private and public schools in the Columbia area and retired from Rosewood Elementary School.

Retta was a beloved grandmother, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, aunt and friend. She was known for her love of children and generosity. She was always someone you could count on in a time of need. Retta was adventurous and liked to travel. She always knew the best restaurants and enjoyed a good dessert. Retta appreciated the fine arts and attended the Charleston Spoleto Festival for as long as she was able. She was a member of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Chapin, Kappa Kappa Iota Teaching Sorority, League of Women Voters and the DAR. She was a true steel magnolia and will be missed greatly.

Because Ron and Retta’s deaths were so close, a visitation and celebration of life reception for both will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2-4pm at Caughman Harman Funeral Home in Lexington, SC.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.