Maggie Neal Coleman

On December 17, 1929, a blessing named Maggie entered the world, born to the late Andrew and Mattie Robinson Neal in Lugoff, South Carolina. Maggie, affectionately named after her father's mother, embarked on a journey that would touch the lives of many.

Maggie received her education in the Kershaw County School System. In her youth, she ventured to New York, where she resided for many years before returning to South Carolina to acquire her cherished home. Between those times, Maggie was blessed with the birth of four sons: Charlie, Melvin, Earnest, and Bernard "Barry," all born in South Carolina. Entrusting them to the care of her parents when she pursued a new life in New York, they eventually joined her as young children.

Her appreciation for various forms of music and a fondness for comedians like Moms Mabley and Red Foxx filled her early years. However, as she matured, she discovered
solace in gospel music. Maggie was a culinary artist, mastering traditional favorites such as macaroni and cheese, potato salad, baked chicken, ham adorned with sliced pineapple and cloves, collard greens, green beans, and her legendary lemon cake (made from scratch!) with coconut frosting.

Maggie lived a vibrant and fulfilling life, fueled by her love for God. She became a devoted member of St. Matthew Baptist Church in Lugoff, where she was a member of the Senior Choir, Concert Choir, the Usher Board and many other church organizations.

Upon her return to South Carolina, she crossed paths with and married the late Raymond Coleman, who preceded her in death in 2018. In addition to her husband, Maggie was preceded in death by her son, Earnest Neal; grandson, Christopher Neal; siblings, Loretta Neal, Franklin Neal, Andrew Neal Jr, and James Neal.

On Wednesday, November 15, 2023, Maggie peacefully entered eternal rest, surrounded by her three sisters, Beatrice, Marilyn, and Doris, at MUSC Health Medical Center in Florence, South Carolina.

Maggie is survived by her sons, Charlie James (Gloria) Neal of Mableton, GA, Melvin Neal of Camden, SC and Bernard Christopher (Brenda) Neal of Lugoff, SC; four sisters, Eva (Reverend Nathaniel) Henry of Bronx, NY, Beatrice Harris of Ridgeway, SC, Marilyn Nelson of Lugoff, SC, and Doris Belton of Columbia, SC; one brother, Reverend Elliott Neal of Richmond, VA; eight grandchildren, Sabrina Patricia, Charles "Derek", Denise, Sabrina Michelle, Reeshema, Capri, Marc, and Andrew; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Her legacy extends to a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, as well as her church family.

Maggie will be fondly remembered for the love she showered upon her family and friends, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew and cherished her. As we bid farewell, we express gratitude for the 93 remarkable years she shared with us.