Lula Mae Gary Anderson

Lula Mae Gary Anderson was born on December 21, 1939, in Mt. Carmel, SC, the beloved and cherished daughter of the late Willie and Maggie Thomas Gary. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

“Big Mamma” as she was affectionately called, grew up in McCormick, SC, where she attended Mims High School. Lula Mae, as she was often called, was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Lula Mae dedicated her life to nurturing her family and spreading love to everyone she met.

She was a member of Mt. Harmon Baptist Church and later became a member of St. Mary AME Church in Mt. Carmel, where she embraced the values of faith, family, and compassion that would guide her throughout her life. 

Lula was the beloved wife of the late Sammie Lee Anderson, and together, they raised a beautiful family filled with love and laughter. She was the proud and loving mother of ten children, Isaiah (Claudine), Sammie (Deanyelle), Bobby (Lance), Lula (Jim), Deborah, David Wayne (Marie), Tammy, Ricky (Beverly), Jerome (Elaine), and Reggie (Krystal). She also lovingly helped raise her siblings, Thomas (Wendy), Sammie, Garnett, and held a special place in her heart for her nephew, Willie Gary, who lived in the home at times and was a constant support and presence when needed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Lela, Willie, James, Odell, Bobby Dean; sister-in-law, Marion; and her precious grandchild, Jalis Anderson.

Known affectionately as “Big Mama,” Lula found immense joy in her role as grandmother to twenty-six grandchildren and forty great-grandchildren. Her home was always open, her heart always full, and her laughter could warm even the coldest day. Her family was her greatest joy, and her home was a sanctuary of love, laughter, and comfort. She shared a special bond with Robert Lee, a devoted family friend whose constant presence and unwavering support brought her comfort, always lending a helping hand around the house and faithfully accompanying her to appointments with care and compassion.

Lula had a deep passion for gardening. She found peace and purpose among her flowers and houseplants, cultivating beauty wherever she went. Her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness left an unforgettable impression on all who knew her. Whether with a warm hug, a wise word, or a hearty laugh, Lula had a way of making everyone feel cherished.

Lula Mae Anderson will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, strength,

and grace will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her.

Rest in peace, Dear Lula Mae. Your light will forever shine in our hearts.

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