Mary Hunter Crose

1941 - 2025

Mary Hunter Croxton Crose, 84, of Hilton Head Island, SC, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born in Danville, VA, to Lucy Cox Croxton and Richard "Dick" Croxton, Mary Hunter's life was marked by grace, style, and a deep commitment to family and community. She pursued her education at Randolph-Macon Woman's College before transferring to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she was a proud member of the Phi Mu sorority.

After college, Mary Hunter settled in Atlanta, where she met and married Richard "Dick" Crose. Together, they built a life filled with love, partnership, and purpose. In 1971, the couple moved to Hilton Head Island with their children to launch Knickers, an iconic clothing store that became a beloved fixture on the island. Mary Hunter and Dick were among the visionary pioneers who helped shape Hilton Head's south end, contributing to the development of the renowned Sea Pines community and elevating the island into a world-class destination.

Mary Hunter was celebrated for her warm hospitality, timeless elegance, and an innate ability to inspire those around her. Through Knickers, she shared her passion for fashion and nurtured countless young women, encouraging them to embrace confidence and individuality.

Her generosity extended beyond business. She found joy in volunteering at The Church Mouse Thrift Shop, where she considered her fellow volunteers family. A woman of deep faith, Mary Hunter was a lifelong member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church on Hilton Head. For over three decades, she was actively involved with Spirit of Friendship charitable group, reflecting her unwavering dedication to service and community support.

Mary Hunter is lovingly remembered by her sons, Richard (Lainie), Hunter (Tiffany), and Archer (Lindsey), and was a devoted grandmother to Rollin, Lawton, Veda, and Patchin-each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. She is also survived by her older brother, Archer Croxton, and his family in Winston Salem, NC.

Her warmth, strength, and boundless kindness touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving a legacy that will endure.

A celebration of Mary Hunter's life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Baynard Park Club Pavillion in Sea Pines Plantation. All who loved Mary Hunter and her family are warmly invited to attend.

In lieu of donations or gifts, the family kindly requests that friends honor Mary Hunter's memory by giving flowers to someone who could use a smile. She loved flowers and flower arranging and would be delighted to know her spirit continues to bring joy through this simple act of kindness.