Obituary for Marjorie Snell Milling Surrounded by loving family, Marjorie Snell Milling, 87, of Columbia, died peacefully on October 12, 2018. Born Marjorie Jean Snell on April 15, 1931 in Greenwood, Mississippi, she was the only child of Janie Omega Alford and James Harvey Snell. The family lived in Greenville, Mississippi, where Marjorie grew up and participated extensively in civic and church events.
She graduated as Valedictorian of her class at Greenville High School. After graduation, she attended Baylor University as a music major. Marjorie was a gifted pianist and organist.
She played for weddings and church programs beginning in high school and continuing into adulthood. Music filled her life and home, and she appreciated all genres of music. Although she was busy enough tending a large family, Marjorie found time in her life for a number of volunteer activities, including work with Laubach Literacy and the Medical Auxiliary, and as a docent at the Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home.
In addition, in 1980, she finished college, earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies from the University of South Carolina, attending classes in between school drop-offs and pick-ups and after school activities, and while expecting her last child. Her graduation was a happy occasion for the entire family. For many years following, she continued to enjoy participation in the American Association of University Women.
Marjorie loved children and young people. She raised seven daughters and took an active interest in the lives of their friends, acting as second “Mom” to many of them. She was a good friend to numerous people, both old and young.
An avid reader, Marjorie’s home was frequently filled with animated discussions of books and current events. Travel with her husband Bob was a part of her lifelong love of learning. Marjorie continued reading by Talking Books, provided by the South Carolina State Library, after the loss of her eyesight and right up until her death.
She was particularly proud of her work teaching adults to read. Survivors include Marjorie’s seven daughters, Julia Pearson and her husband Bill of Mt. Pleasant; Melanie Torrance of Columbia; Deborah Milling of Mt.
Pleasant; Marjean Gordon and her partner Donnie Spiers of Houston, Texas; Mary Alexander and her husband Mason of Charlotte, North Carolina; Elizabeth Najjar and her husband Richard of Beaufort; and Melissa Washburn and her husband Russ of Spartanburg. She also leaves behind sixteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Marjorie was predeceased by her husband Dr. Robert Nicholson Milling.
Marjorie will be missed by the many who knew and loved her. Her keen and bright intelligence, her caring manner, and her beautiful smile will not be forgotten. A private funeral will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral with internment in the churchyard columbarium.
The family suggests that memorials be made to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 1100 Sumter St., Columbia, SC 29201; or SCSL, Talking Book Services, 1500 Senate St., Columbia, SC 29201. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Marjorie Snell Milling please visit our Sympathy Store.
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