Mildred Pygatt

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Ms. Mildred Pygatt, 82, of Florence, who transitioned on Monday, December 15, 2025.
Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this time of loss and remembrance.
Mildred Pygatt, affectionately known as "Bae" to her younger siblings, departed this life on Monday, December 15, 2025, after an illness. She was born on May 20, 1943, in Florence, South Carolina, to the late Lemuel and Fannie Melton Pygatt.
Mildred attended Florence County Public Schools and was a graduate of Wilson Senior High School. She later moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she gave birth to her one and only child, Erica (LaTrease).
While visiting her sister Mary in Kingston, New York, Mildred was baptized in Jesus' Name at Bethlehem Temple. During her time in Philadelphia, she worked briefly as a receptionist and frequently visited her sister Helen to assist in caring for her children. Mildred later returned to Florence, where she lived for several years with her daughter until her daughter's graduation.
Mildred eventually moved back to Philadelphia, where she joined Cornerstone Baptist Church and faithfully served as an usher for many years. In 2018, shortly after the passing of her longtime partner of 25 years, Arthur Pace, Mildred was moved back to Florence by her daughter and son-in-law. While in Florence, she attended and later joined Wayside Chapel Baptist Church.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved daughter, Erica (Rodney) Kelly; three grandchildren, Rhondell Kelly, Jarrett Kelly, and Tahj Kelly; her sisters, Helen McElveen and Mary (Harold) Pinckney; her sisters-in-law, Gladys Pygatt and Arteal Pygatt; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Arrangements Entrusted To:
Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc.
106 East Darlington Street
Florence, South Carolina 29506
Memorials and Expressions of Sympathy May Be Sent To:
Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc.
106 East Darlington Street
Florence, South Carolina 29506