News Summary
Lillian Brenda Mosier Douglass, a cherished mother and prominent community leader, has passed away at the age of 85. Noted for her dedication to family and service, she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and involvement in her community. Brenda’s life was filled with passion for gardening, cooking, and music, and she is survived by her four children, numerous grandchildren, and a network of family and friends who will cherish her memory.
Florence, SC – Lillian Brenda Mosier Douglass, Respected Mother and Community Leader, Passes Away at 85
Lillian Brenda Mosier Douglass, a beloved mother and community figure, passed away on May 2, 2025, in Florence, SC, at the age of 85. Surrounded by her children, Brenda’s departure marks the end of a life dedicated to family and service.
Born on September 5, 1939, in Sumter, SC, Brenda was the daughter of the late Eugene Tarleton Mosier, Sr. and Beulah Way Mosier Avinger. Throughout her life, she was celebrated as the heart and soul of her family, consistently prioritizing their needs and demonstrating exceptional kindness. Those who encountered her described her as possessing a quiet strength that left a lasting impression.
Family and Early Life
Brenda attended Edmunds High School and devoted decades to her family while living in both Sumter and Florence, SC. Throughout her life, she embodied the roles of a devoted daughter, loving sister, faithful wife, nurturing mother, and grandmother. Her strong work ethic was evident in her various roles, which ranged from bookkeeping to positions in the retail and textile industries. One of her notable achievements was managing the Belk department store in Sumter, SC.
Later in life, Brenda moved to Virginia where she married Reverend Carl H. Douglass, Jr. As a minister’s wife, she embraced her calling in ministry and significantly contributed to various communities in Virginia, notably at Patmos United Methodist Church. Together, they created a cherished life on Smith Mountain Lake, which became a beloved gathering place for family and friends.
Passions and Interests
Brenda’s passions extended beyond family life. She had a deep love for gardening, taking pride in nurturing beauty around her home. Additionally, she enjoyed connecting with the natural world and was particularly fond of animals, especially birds. Brenda was also a skilled fisherman and enjoyed sharing her catch with loved ones.
Her culinary skills were well-known, particularly her talent for Southern cooking, and she took joy in gathering family and friends around the table. An avid reader, Brenda appreciated literature and shared her love for books with her family and friends. Music also played a significant role in her life, with interests spanning various genres.
Legacy and Survivors
Brenda was affectionately known as Mama, Grandma, Mema, and Meme by her children and grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly. She is survived by her four children: Michael L. Atkinson and Jacque, Cynthia A. Hales, Sonya A. Secor and Dean, and Lynn A. Semones and Steve. In addition, her legacy includes 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, alongside her oldest granddaughter, Roni K. Alwin, and her blended Douglass family.
Brenda’s siblings, who include Gail Gressette-Jeffcoat, Rev. Eugene T. Mosier, Jr., and sisters-in-law Janet and Marianne Mosier, will continue to cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her husband Reverend Carl Henry Douglass, Jr., her first husband Marion Leslie “Buddy” Atkinson, as well as several siblings, a step-daughter, and her beloved Chihuahua, Sassy.
Community Involvement and Acknowledgments
The family expresses gratitude to Dr. Troy Gamble for his compassionate care and to the caregivers from Amedisys Hospice and McLeod Hospice House for their support during Brenda’s final days. A Celebration of Life Service will take place at Concord Baptist Church in Sumter, SC, on September 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Patmos United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 55, Huddleston, VA, 24104, to honor her legacy and the impact she made in her community.
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