Mrs. Maria Pike

Maria was born on April 14, 1935, in Saarburg, Germany, to the late Nikolaus and Maria Neger. She lived through the tumultuous years of World War II and often shared the incredible stories of her childhood, recounting the resilience and determination that helped her, and her family survive during such a challenging time.

In 1959, Maria married Ronald C. Pike, an Air Force Loadmaster, and embarked on a life of travel and adventure as a military spouse for over 28 years. Together, they built a loving home wherever the Air Force took them, and Maria was a constant, unwavering support to her husband and children.

Maria cherished her children dearly, but in her heart, all the children in the neighborhood were “Oma’s” kids, and she always had a warm spot for them. She loved her family deeply, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Maria’s passion for gardening was well-known. She had a true gift, a natural “green thumb,” and could often be found tending to her flowers and garden year-round. Her yard was always a beautiful reflection of her nurturing spirit. She also loved making memories with her daughters and son-in-law on trips to Helen, GA, where she enjoyed the lively Oompa Bands and the festive atmosphere of the Festhall.

Maria is survived by her daughters, Christina Bruch (Kevin) and Shirley Pike; her granddaughter, Jessica Alexander (Dustin); and her two great-grandsons, Ace and Colton. She was predeceased by her husband, Ronald C. Pike; her son, Ronald K. Pike; and two sisters and four brothers.

The family will receive friends and loved ones for a visitation on Tuesday, February 18, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a chapel service to follow at 11:00 AM at Carolina Memorial Funeral Home, located at 7113 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC 29406. Interment will follow at Carolina Memorial Gardens.

In Maria’s memory, the family asks that you cherish your loved ones and take time to care for the beauty around you, just as she did with her flowers and her family.