Mary Ellen Gantt, of Columbia, SC, passed away on June 1, 2023. Mary Ellen was born on July 22, 1944, to Hollis Hurst and Vera King Hurst and proceeded in death by her parents and beloved brother, Hollis Hurst. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Steven Amos Gantt. Mary Ellen was a graduate of Chesterfield High School, Limestone College, and received her master's in education from the University of South Carolina.

As a devoted educator and coach, Mary Ellen was a strong mentor to her students and athletes. She led the Brookland Cayce High School softball team to become the state champions during her last year of coaching. Mary Ellen left an impact in the state by bringing Project Adventure to South Carolina. She was a strong advocate for Title 9 in South Carolina which brought equality to women's sports. Mary Ellen was also the founder of "Squeaky Feet," an after-school program for elementary age children, including those with special needs. Her passions were playing tennis, running, the blues, entertaining and cultivating strong relationships in her life.

Mary Ellen had a bright, generous spirit with an open heart and mind. She was a role model to her students, athletes, friends, and family, offering unconditional love to all. Her beautiful and vivacious presence always lit up the room. Mary Ellen simply loved life to the fullest, encouraged others to find the best part of themselves, and to share that part with everyone in their lives.

In addition to her husband, Mary Ellen is survived by her daughter, Robin E. Lee; daughter-in-law, Robin A Schade; stepdaughter, Kellie Gantt; stepson, Steven A Gantt; and brother-in-law, Ned W Gantt.

A memorial service will be held at 4 o'clock on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Extension, Columbia, SC 29223. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 North Michigan Avenue, Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601. Memorials may also be made by donating online, https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate .