Mary Lou Strudwick

In 1940 she was born to Porter and the late Ethel Gaymon in Sumter, S.C. After graduating from Lincoln High School in Sumter, she attended Durham Business School in Raleigh, N.C., from where she took her degree to Brooklyn, N.Y. There she was united in wedlock to her late husband, Frank Strudwick Jr. and started their family.

In contrast to the chaos of the big city, Mary found serenity in Christianity and would serve the Lord, love her children, support her community and be the best neighbor at her final home in Jamestown, N.Y.

Mary was the loving daughter of Porter Gaymon of Sumter, SC; and the loving mother of Tyrone Strudwick of Euclid, Ohio, Laura (Michael) Lewis of Palmer, Alaska, Porter (Lottie) Strudwick of Lakeland, Fla., and Frank (Lisa) Strudwick III of Jamestown, N.Y.

She was the loving sister of Loretta (Randolph) Black of Sumter, S.C., Alvin Gaymon of Atlanta Ga., Randolph Gaymon of Columbia, S.C., and Ernestine Gaymon of Sumter.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ethel Dupree Gaymon; and a brother, Porter Gaymon Jr. of Sumter.

Mary was adored by the Jamestown Public School System, where she worked as a teacher’s aide for 30 years. Mary advocated for community growth as she participated in projects such as upgrading Chadakoin Park, Juneteenth celebrations and church youth events. She also worked at several local businesses where she was a loved and valued friend. She was a gift of light to all, including a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends that will be deeply grieved by her passing.

A private family service will be held in the Lind Funeral Home, officiated by the Rev. Marion Battle. Burial will be in Lake View Cemetery. Visitation will not be observed.

To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.lindfuneralhome.com.