Zenobia Wiley Blanding

Zenobia Wiley Hunter Blanding was born May 1,1936 to Artis Wiley and Ellen Morris Wiley. She was the third of five children and grew up in Townville, South Carolina in a very close-knit family. On Saturday, November 8, 2025, God, in His infinite love and mercy, called her home to rest in His eternal care. No more pain and suffering. "Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord."
Zenobia lived a faithful and fulfilling life. She was affectionately known as the neighborhood "Auntie," because of her kindness, laughter, and open heart. She loved all children as her own and made everyone feel like family. She was a kind-hearted and meek person who would offer any and everything she had. Even when she was ill and not feeling well, she would always ask if she could help in any way. "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes other will be refreshed."
Despite losing her own mother at the age of five, she developed the wisdom, strength, and love that shaped her into a remarkable mother. "Her children rise up and call her blessed." They respected, honored and praised her for her character, wisdom, and guidance. She, in return, honored her children and worked diligently to ensure they were afforded every opportunity possible, even though resources were limited. Though she led with love, Zenobia also believed in discipline and accountability. She was firm when needed-and yes, she'd send you to get your own switch if the lesson called for it. Her firmness was never harsh, but always rooted in love and the desire to see her children and grandchildren grow into their best selves. "Strength and dignity are her clothing."
Zenobia, a fashionista at heart, enjoyed dressing up with style and elegance. She had quite the collection of dress suits, shoes, purses, jewelry and a collection of over 100 hats! You would rarely see her without lipstick and a perfect set of earbobs, even as her health declined. Her hobbies included walking, nurturing her plants, and spending time in her garden. She planted her own vegetable garden well into her early 80s. One could always count on leaving her home with a bag of fresh produce from her garden, as she always planted an abundance just to share with others. "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Zenobia deeply loved her family, and they loved her just as much. Guided by faith and a caring heart, she proudly served as President of the Harper/Hunter Family Reunion for over 30 years. After the passing of her first husband, Johnny J. Hunter, Sr., she continued his legacy with grace and dedication. Even after remarrying, she stayed committed to keeping the Harper/Hunter Family connected in love and fellowship. She loved spending time with family and often took her children to visit relatives on the weekends, keeping family bonds strong. "How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity."
Zenobia was saved by grace and was a lifelong member of New Prospect Baptist Church, where she served the Lord faithfully. She attended, as her health would allow, up until her death. She loved her church family and committed to the purpose of the Lord through service. Over the years, she faithfully served in many roles, including Deacon, Deaconess, Missionary, Usher, and member of the Pastor's Aide Committee. She also proudly served as Women's Day Chairperson. "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him."
Zenobia attended Mt. Pleasant Elementary school in Townville, SC and Anderson County Training School. She was a dedicated and hardworking woman who took great pride in every role she held. Throughout her career, she worked at Mark Manufacturing, Gerrish Milliken and American Enka before joining Clemson University, where she later retired after 11 years of faithful service. "Whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."
She leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate her life: five daughters, Lucinda Austin of Pendleton, SC, Geraldine Hunter of the home, Daisy Smith (Rickey) of Seneca, SC, Angela Willingham of Anderson, SC, and Vanessa Crosby of Pendleton, SC; granddaughters reared in the home, Yolanda Hunter, Angelika Ramsey (Reco), Gerri Hunter, all of Pendleton, SC and Dominique Hunter of Brunson, SC; one son, Waymon Hunter of Pendleton, SC; one stepson, Marlon (Ja'Shaun) of Waxhaw, NC; one special "adopted daughter", Buffy Smith (Chris) of Laurens, SC; three sisters, Mae Ellen Beaty of Ft. Washington, MD, Merdis Wiley of Pendleton, SC and Emily Jones of Anderson, SC; 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 6 great-great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Vada Wiley, Janie Corner, Annie Smith all of Anderson, SC, Bonnie Hunter of Rock Hill, SC and Mamie Williford of Philadelphia, PA; brothers-in-law, David (Eugenia), McLester (Gloria), and Adger Ray (Joyce) Blanding, all of Anderson, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
She was reunited in eternal rest with her first husband, Johnny J. Hunter, Sr., second husband, James Rufus Blanding; son, Johnny J. Hunter, Jr.; son-in-law, Christopher P. Crosby; two grandchildren, Blake Hunter and Ivy Smith; parents, Artis and Ellen Wiley; step-mother, Velma McGee Wiley; brother, Nathaniel Wiley; step-sister, Shirley Haymon; brothers-in-law, Rufus Beaty and Joe Jones.
The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at New Prospect Baptist Church in Townville, SC. The interment will follow at Piney Grove Baptist Church in Sandy Springs, SC. Public viewing Friday from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
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