Sylvia McManus Maw

Sylvia McManus Maw, of Spartanburg, SC, passed away peacefully at her home on November 19, 2025, surrounded by her devoted husband, Samuel Harleston Maw, Jr., and their children.

She was the daughter of the late Henry Plyer McManus and Louise Sanders McManus. She was born on April 27, 1936, in Chester County, SC, and moved with her family to Greer, where she graduated from Greer High School and later attended Converse College.

Sylvia and Sam were married in June of 1957. After a quick honeymoon and 6 months in Maryland for Sam to attend OTS, they were off to Germany, where their first child Sam was born. They enjoyed this time and travelled all over Europe in their “untrusty” 1952 Mercedes. Upon return to the USA, she faithfully supported her husband throughout his career and the nine different moves that came with it from SC, TN, NC, SC, CA, SC. But her heart was always in SC, and she was happy when their last stop was back in Spartanburg.

A longtime member of First Presbyterian Church and the Shortia Garden Club, Sylvia found joy in the simple beauties of life—especially gardening, time spent on the Isle of Palms, and the cherished years she lived in California. She volunteered for many organizations including nearly a decade of service for the Red Cross.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love and warmth shaped the lives of all who knew her. She never hesitated to help her children even when all three lived in different states. She also adored the many pets she had over the years including her beloved Shih Tzu, Scarlett.

In addition to her husband of 68 years, Sylvia is survived by her children, Samuel H. Maw III, David Maw (Stephanie), and Laura Maw McCutchen (David); grandchildren, Emily Verhoeven (Aaron), Kelly Horrillo (Mitchell), Meagan Maw, Scott Maw, Binyam Belachew, David McCutchen (Elizabeth), and Sam McCutchen (Katie); and great-grandchildren Isla, Molly, James, Anne Sanders, Lydia, and Frances. She is also survived by her brother, Sam McManus (Lynn).

Sylvia was predeceased by her daughter-in-law, Beth Maw, and her brother, Steve McManus.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Eden Terrace and Interim Hospice for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Sylvia.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, with details to be announced.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.