Mary Nell Pridemore

Mary Nell Pridemore, 93, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Dec. 19, 2024. Born in Union, SC, Nell was the widow of Carson J. Pridemore. They made their home in West Columbia more than 60 years ago. As she reunites with the love of her life, she is also enjoying a special reunion with her parents Leonard and Gertrude Liner and her best friend and sister, Doris Forbes.

“Mama Nell” (as she is affectionately known to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren) retired 30 years ago from the State of South Carolina to spend more time with her family and enjoy their beach home in Garden City, SC. Her children and grandchildren remember trips to the beaches of South Carolina and the mountains of North Carolina. She and Carson also traveled to more exotic places, including Hawaii and the Caribbean.

She is survived by her daughters, Patti Smoake (Greg) and Robin Austin (Mark); grandchildren, Jason Smoake (Jade), Jessica Riley (Clint) and Heather Hancock (Luke); great-grandchildren, Bradley Hancock, Avery Hancock, Carson Smoake and James Riley.

Her life centered around her family, whom she loved unconditionally, and they adored her. This tiny lady was kind, selfless, and supportive, but don’t confuse her with a shrinking violet because she was also strong-willed and outspoken, never hesitating to stand up for herself or others.

She enjoyed reading, crafting and traveling. She taught herself to sew and once made all of the bridesmaids’ dresses for a wedding. An animal lover, she was a devoted pet mom, taking care of several dogs over the years: Snowball (her childhood dog), Champ (the family’s German Shepherd), Buffy (a rescue Pomeranian) and Baby (a rescue miniature poodle, who became her constant companion after Carson’s death).

A visitation for Mama Nell will be held Monday, December 23, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Caughman Harman Funeral Home – West Columbia, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow at Chapel of Hope, Southland Memorial Gardens, 700 West Dunbar Road, West Columbia, SC.

The family would like to thank the staff of Carroll Campbell Place for the care they provided our precious Mama Nell.