Margaret Byrd Mitchem

Margaret Byrd Mitchem COLUMBIA - Mrs. Margaret Byrd Mitchem, of Columbia, SC, left this life for a better one on Friday, February 22, 2013, at the age of 84, after a long illness. She was well known for her quiet but strong demeanor. She held membership at Victory Life Community Worship Center. Mrs. Mitchem was born December 19, 1928, in Columbia, SC, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Joe and Jessie Hill Byrd. She was educated in the Columbia public school and worked tirelessly serving others in various capacities. Although she retired from the South Carolina State Hospital, she previously worked for Providence Hospital. She also did private duty sitting until she was 78 years old. Mrs. Mitchem, lovingly referred to by her daughters as "Queen of the Earth," is survived by her five children: Morris L. Mitchem, Jr., Elnora (James) Mitchem Campbell, Dorothy Mitchem Jenkins, James H. "Preacher" Mitchem, II and Gale Mitchem Artemus; five grandchildren: Anthony D. Yarborough, Danielle P. (Phillip) Mitchem Williams Hilliard, Pastor Eric (Rita) Mitchem Artemus and Dorthy Mitchem Cook; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. Mrs. Mitchem held a special place in heart for her best friend, Mrs. Sarah E. Jackson, and her dear niece, Mrs. Malvenia L. Fowler. She was predeceased by her two brothers, and a grandson, John C. Artemus, IV. Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home, 2930 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. The homegoing service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 1, 2013, at Greenlawn Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.bosticktompkinsinc.com.