Nora Mai McCoy

1942 - 2025

CHARLESBORO COMMUNITY - Nora Mai Smithson McCoy, 83, of the Charlesboro Community, S.C. passed away peacefully on Oct. 12, 2025 in Lancaster, S.C.
She was born on Aug. 9, 1942 in Cullman County, Alabama to the late Ezra T. Smithson and Nannie Montgomery Smithson.
Nora was predeceased by her beloved husband, Norris McCoy Sr.; her son, Norris McCoy Jr.; and her sisters, Peggy J. Fleming and Johnnie T. Smithson.
Her life was a rich tapestry woven with the threads of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge. She was a lifelong farmer in the Charlesboro Community. Her love for farming was paralleled only by her love for children, especially when it came to sharing her passion for reading with them. Known affectionately as "Grandma Mai" to many, Nora's home was a haven where stories from the magical worlds of "Star Trek" and "Harry Potter" came alive. An avid reader herself, she believed in the power of imagination and the importance of lifelong learning. Her enthusiasm for these fictional universes was infectious, and she was often the center of lively discussions about the adventures of her favorite characters.
Nora's legacy is carried on by her loving family. She is survived by her son, Matthew McCoy of Polk City, Florida; daughters, Merry Hudson (Shain) of Kershaw, S.C. and Cindy Carnley (Harold) of Polk City, Florida. Her sisters, June Moore (Victor) of Wimauma, Florida, and Theresa "Sam" Smith (Gary) of Kershaw, S.C., will fondly remember their sister's vibrant spirit. Her grandchildren, Cole Hudson (Madison) of Kershaw, S.C., Billy Carnley (Monica) of Polk City, Florida, Jennifer McCoy of Lancaster, S.C., and Ashley McCoy Whitley (Brent) of Monroe, N.C., will continue to be inspired by her wisdom and love. Nora's eight great-grandchildren, along with two special grandchildren of the heart, Railyn Smith and Brentley Smith, will grow up hearing tales of their remarkable "Grandma Mai." She also leaves behind her numerous nieces, nephews, and the entire community that adored her.
There will be a Celebration of Life Memorial Service on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Baumgartner Funeral Home in Pageland, S.C. with the family officiating the service. The family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025 at Baumgartner Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks to have a tree planted in her honor for the love she had for farming.
Arrangements are entrusted to Baumgartner Funeral Home (www.baumgartnerfh.com) of Pageland, S.C.