Mary Willis Hellams

Mary Willis Hellams passed away on May 31, 2026, at her home in Columbia after a brief illness. She lived her 79 years as an industrious , strong woman of deep faith. She was happiest when quietly doing things to help those in need.

On January 11, 1947, in Columbia, SC, this red-headed baby was born to Col.(RET) William (Bill) and Elizabeth (Lib) Willis. Mary had an older sister, Betty, who was not impressed by her arrival but grew to love her dearly. Being a military family, they were transferred several times in her early years living in Columbia, Japan, Erie, PA, and back to Columbia. Mary graduated from AC Flora High School (Class of 1965), St. Andrews Presbyterian College (Class of 1969), and later received her M.Ed. from the University of SC. Her love of children led her to a long career in elementary education teaching at Stono Park Elementary (Charleston, SC), Oak Grove Elementary (Lexington ,SC),and Shandon UMC Preschool as an assistant. Her most treasured “job” was being a nanny to Gracie Boyce for 10 years.

She was a life-long member of Shandon UMC where she taught 2 year old Sunday School, served on numerous committees, was a member of Mary Campbell Circle, worked with VBS, the garage sale, collecting items for youth mission projects, etc. The United Women in Faith awarded her their highest honor naming her Woman of the Year. As a true Methodist, Mary lived her faith by giving tirelessly of her time, her talents, and her support.

Another favorite organization was Families Helping Families. She spent countless hours during the year buying items for the families served by the program filling every empty closet and space in her home with her purchases. By October, she was volunteering in the office and in December at the collection and distribution warehouse. This dedication earned her the “Community Builder “ award given by WLTX TV.

Mary was a faithful servant of God, a caring, loving daughter, mother, family member, and a devoted friend. Her family and friends may also add – independent, strong, stubborn, and one who gave selflessly. Her favorite times were spent at Pawley’s Island, making her famous bread, playing cards (she was a card shark), feeding and watching her deer and birds, and watching the Lady Gamecocks play basketball.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Elizabeth (Betty) Willis Maxwell. She is survived by her daughter, Beth Hellams Forest of Asheville, NC; nephews Ray Maxwell (Debe) of Charlotte, NC, Bill Maxwell (fiance Rebecca), of Carolina Beach, NC, niece Elizabeth Maxwell Cooper (David) of Carolina Beach, NC; extra daughter Amy Flowers of Columbia, SC; and many friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Shandon UMC on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM followed by a visitation reception in Wesley Hall. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery at 1:30 PM.

If you have read this far, you know that Mary did not write it, she would not have told you of her honors and service to others. It was written by family and many who loved her. For those who wish to remember her, in lieu of flowers please consider donating to Shandon UMC (Youth Missions), 3407 Devine St., Columbia, SC 29205 or Families Helping Families, 4500 Fort Jackson Blvd., Suite 150, Columbia, SC 29209.