Lura McMakin Hunnicutt

Lura Elizabeth “Betsy” McMakin Hunnicutt went home with the Lord on April 30, 2026. Born September 2, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Albert V. and Evelyn C. McMakin. Betsy was born in Greenville and grew up in North Myrtle Beach, Eastover, and Columbia, and for a short time in Orlando, FL.

Betsy attended Lower Richland High School but finished her diploma in a dual enrollment program at Wingate College. It was then she met Larry L. Hunnicutt, Sr., her husband of almost fifty years. She finished her college education at Blue Mountain College, Blue Mountain, MS, double majoring in English and Organ. Betsy later completed a Masters degree and a Masters +30 degree at the University of South Carolina. Betsy taught English, first at Eau Claire High School, then private school, and finally Lexington High School. Upon completing her Masters +30, she became recertified to teach blind and low vision students and taught for many years, first in Kershaw County and then AC Flora High School. She was considered one of the best blind and low vision teachers in the state of South Carolina, holding her students to a high standard but caring deeply and advocating strongly for them.

A music lover, Betsy was a church organist for many years, first at Jackson Creek Baptist Church and then Eau Claire Presbyterian Church, where she also served as director for the adult and youth choirs and the handbell choirs. Later, Betsy learned to play mountain dulcimer and played over 20 years with the Dulcimores in Blythewood, acting as an instructor and, for many years, the leader of the group. Even when she could no longer actively participate, Betsy continued to instruct individuals in advanced technique.

Following the death of her husband, Betsy formed the Widows and Widowers Care Team at First Presbyterian Church, coming alongside recent widows and widowers with care and understanding. Not only did she minister to them, but she also made many friends during this time.

Betsy is survived by her children Joel (Susan), Dan (Kara), and Eve (David Huffman). Her delight was in her grandchildren Marie, Emmy, Elizabeth Grace, William, and Elliott, and her great-grandchildren Declan, Dalton, Deacon, and Lucy. She is also survived by brothers Jack and Dan, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her son Lin, grandson Max, and brother Bob.

The family is grateful to Jordan Riggs, Betsy’s step-granddaughter and caregiver, for her tender and excellent care in the last season of Betsy’s life. Jordan and her son Tristan, who was Betsy’s buddy, made Betsy’s final weeks more comfortable at home as only family can.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 4 at 1:00 p.m. in Smith Chapel at First Presbyterian Church, 1420 Washington Street, Columbia, with greeting of the family in the Atrium following the service. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the First Presbyterian Church, 1324 Marion Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.