Mary Clarkson Butler

Mary Clarkson Butler was born July 6, 1925, and passed away May 14, 2026. Mary lived a long and joyful life, reaching nearly 101 years of age.

Mary was the eldest child of the late Elizabeth Epps Clarkson and Clenton Austin Clarkson of Kingstree, South Carolina. She graduated from Kingstree High School before attending Winthrop University in 1942, where she earned a degree in Home Economics. During her early years in Kingstree, Mary developed a deep faith, lasting friendships, and a devotion to family that would guide her throughout her life.

Mary met her husband, Charles Henry Butler, Jr., at The Lunch Box, a popular eatery in Darlington. They married in 1951 and raised three daughters. After a brief time teaching school and working as a Home Demonstration Agent, she found her calling in social work and went on to enjoy a long and fulfilling career as a supervisor at the Darlington Department of Social Services.

Mary had a servant’s heart and devoted herself tirelessly to her family, her church, and her community. Following her retirement, she became one of the founding organizers of The Lord Cares, a ministry dedicated to providing food to those in need. Mary served as its first manager and faithfully led the organization for 28 years. The Lord Cares continues to serve the community today.

Mary’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She faithfully attended Darlington Presbyterian Church, and taught Sunday School for over 20 years. Mary served as an officer in both Women in Ministry and Circle 3. In addition, she helped cook Wednesday night meals and served in numerous other capacities. In 2005, Darlington Presbyterian Church presented Mary with an Honorary Life Membership for her many years of service. Also in 2005, Mary was honored by Winthrop College with the prestigious Mary Mildred Sullivan Award for outstanding community service.

Mary discovered her gift for painting in her 80’s. Her children will forever cherish the beautiful artwork she created. In her later years she moved to Florence Presbyterian Community and was proud that one of her paintings was chosen as the 2018 Mother’s Day Card for Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina.

Mary cherished time spent with friends and was an avid bridge player. A gifted cook, she was well known around Darlington for her homemade biscuits, chocolate fudge, and divinity. Feisty and quick-witted, Mary brought laughter wherever she went, whether around the bridge table, in her church community, or gathered with family and friends.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Mary was predeceased by her sister, Pattie Belle Clarkson Ilderton, and her brother Dr. William David Clarkson.

Mary is survived by her three daughters: Maryedith Clarkson Butler Morgan (Hugh), Margaret Elizabeth Butler O’Neal ( David), and Patty Jo Butler Howard (Charles). Mary is also survived by six grandchildren: Richard David O’Neal (Rachel), Mary Margaret O’Neal Madden (Clay), Kate Morgan Redfern (Clint), Walter Hugh Morgan, Jr. (Emily) Charles Grandison Howard III (Emily) and Simons Lucas Howard, along with numerous great-grandchildren.

A funeral service to honor Mary’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 29, 2026, at Darlington Presbyterian Church officiated by Rev. Kevin Cauley. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the McCown Building. A private family burial will immediately follow at Grove Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Mary’s honor to:

The Lord Cares , P.O. Box 1457 Darlington, SC 29540

The Susan P. Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Darlington Presbyterian Church, 311 Pearl Street, Darlington, SC 29532