News Summary
The Florence community is grieving the loss of three beloved members: Monica Ann McDowell, John Ellebe Skipper II, and Megan Heather Brown. Their passings have deeply affected family, friends, and locals. McDowell was a dedicated technologist known for her compassion, while Skipper was a devoted father and community supporter. Brown contributed as a caring mother and community leader. The community is coming together to honor their legacies and provide support during this difficult time.
Florence Community Mourns Loss of Three Beloved Members
Florence, SC has lost three cherished community members: Monica Ann McDowell, John Ellebe Skipper II, and Megan Heather Brown. Their recent passings have left a profound impact on family, friends, and all who knew them.
Monica Ann McDowell: A Lifelong Technologist and Family Woman
Monica Ann McDowell, 53, passed away on August 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion. Born in Florence, she was the daughter of the late Billy Charles McDowell and Patsy Kennedy McDowell. McDowell dedicated 23 years of service as an MRI Technician at McLeod Hospital, where she was renowned for her professionalism and caring demeanor.
McDowell’s greatest joy was her family, especially her granddaughter, Brooklyn, and her nephews. An avid traveler, she frequently visited the mountains and beaches, relishing boat rides during her seaside excursions. She is survived by her son, Graham Young (Katie) McDowell; her brother, Brad (Liza) McDowell; sister, Michelle McDowell; nephews Colin and Carson McDowell; and lifelong friend, Julie O’Neal. She was preceded in death by her father and her baby brother, Billy Charles McDowell Jr.
A visitation for McDowell will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on August 20, 2025, at Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home. A private funeral service will follow, with donations requested to be made to the McLeod Foundation in her memory.
John Ellebe Skipper II: A Dedicated Father and Community Member
John Ellebe Skipper II, 49, passed away on August 15, 2025. Born in Florence to Sallie Rolland Skipper and the late John E. Skipper, Sr., he was a loving father who valued family. A graduate of West Florence High School, Skipper actively supported his children at various sporting events and enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly fishing and at the beach.
He is survived by his mother, his son, Bose (Ashton) Skipper; sister, Heidi (Chuck) Oates; and niece, Madelyn Oates. Skipper was preceded in death by his daughter, Hannah Skipper. A visitation will be held on August 21, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Layton-Anderson Funeral Home.
Megan Heather Brown: A Caring Mother and Community Leader
Megan Heather Brown passed away on August 15, 2025, at the age of 41. Born on October 12, 1983, she graduated from Wilson High School and pursued studies in Human Services at Florence-Darlington Technical College. Brown found fulfillment as a Seniors Activity Director at the Carolinian, as well as working at Lowe’s and Kimbrell’s Furniture in Florence.
A dedicated mother, Brown cherished her children—sons Jaleen and Jacari, daughter Jada—and her grandson, Miles. She leaves behind her partner, Steve; her children; and siblings Maleeka and Michael Brown, along with her grandparents, Michael and Myrtle Brown, who were instrumental in her upbringing. Brown was preceded in death by her uncle, Michael Brown.
A memorial for Brown will take place on August 20, 2025, honoring her contributions and the love she gave to her family and the community.
Community Impact
The loss of these three individuals has prompted an outpouring of grief and support in Florence. Family and friends alike remember them not just for their accomplishments, but for their heartfelt presence in the lives of those around them. The community is reminded of the importance of coming together to honor their legacies while providing comfort and support to each other during this time of mourning.
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Additional Resources
- Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home: Monica McDowell
- Layton-Anderson Funeral Home: John Skipper II
- Smith Funeral Home: Megan Brown
- Legacy.com: Mary Ham
- Mitchell-Josey Funeral Home: Coach John Carey Jr.
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
