Mary Sweezy Bates

Mary Magdeline Sweezy Bates, 87, awoke in the arms of her Lord and Savior on November 12, 2016. She always loved a beautiful sunrise. Mary always said that no work of art could compare to the handiwork of God. Although she loved her family and friends, she longed to go to her Heavenly Home and was reunited with her beloved, husband, John, in addition to other family members.

Born in Greenwood, Mary was the daughter of the late James Edward Sweezy and Sallie Hoxit Sweezy. She was a beloved mother, Mimi, sister, aunt, and friend. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved of her family dearly.  Mary was a charter member of Praise Cathedral.

She is survived  by her daughter, Susan Bates Hill; her son-in-law, James Hill, whom she loved as a son; her grandchildren, Claire Bates Hill, Jason Dietrich (Bates), Margaret Lipphard (Bates) Shawn Bates, Will Bates, Anthony Bates, Alicia Bates, Anthony Bates; and her three beloved sisters, Regena Short, Katherine Lundstrom, and Erin Mauldin; and nieces and nephews.

Mary was predeceased by her son, Kenny Bates.

Funeral Services will be held 2 p.m. Monday, November 14, 2016 at The Wood Mortuary, conducted by Rev. Bob McCuen.  Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memory Gardens.

 Honorary escort will be the Senior Adults at Praise Cathedral.

Visitation will be held from 1-1:45 p.m. Monday at the mortuary prior to the service.

The family is at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and James Hill.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful caregivers and staff at Home Helpers, Greer.

Memorials may be made to Greer Community Ministries, PO Box 1373, Greer, SC  29652.

Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.