Reverend James R. McGee

Reverend James. R. McGee

ORANGEBURG -- The Reverend James R. McGee, 75, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. He was the husband of Marty Salley McGee.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, January 13, 2023 at St. Paul United Methodist Church, St. Matthews, SC with Rev. Susan Ulmer officiating. The family will receive friends following the service on Saturday in the church fellowship hall.

James was born in Orangeburg, a son of the late Hinchie Atkinson McGee, Jr. and Cassandra Cason. He graduated from Orangeburg High School and Clemson University. While at Clemson, he was a member of The Numeral Society and Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Later, he earned a Master of Divinity Degree from Lutheran Southern Theological Seminary.

James led a full and productive life, having been part owner of the family business of Cleckley & McGee; a public servant as Orangeburg City Administrator and longtime Orangeburg County Council member; President and CEO of The Oaks of Orangeburg, a continuing care retirement community; and an ordained United Methodist minister, serving the Orange Circuit and Norway-Lebanon, and St. Paul United Methodist Church in St. Matthews.

He served as a President of the SC Association of Counties and received the President's Award presented by the then-President, the late David Summers of Calhoun County. During his tenure as President of the Orangeburg Kiwanis Club, the local chapter welcomed its first African-American members. He was especially dedicated, from its inception, to Orangeburg's Sisters United and its efforts to protect women victims of domestic violence.

In addition to his wife of 54 years, he is survived by his talented daughter Annie McGee Atterberry; two very special grandchildren, James Atterberry and May Atterberry; brother Edgar C. McGee (Rosemary); sisters-in-law Georgianna Mobley McGee, Kate Salley Palmer (Jim), and Margaret Salley Harrison; brother-in-law Bill Salley (Jaymie); beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a host of wonderful friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Hinchie III and Billy McGee and nephew, Hinchie McGee, IV.

It should come as no surprise to anyone that James was voted "Best Personality" at Orangeburg High School. He was known there and all his life as "one whose presence blessed others with his laughter, his compassion, his amazing love for others (especially his family), his leadership skills, and his inherent need to serve. He touched many souls throughout his ministry."

He was a wonderful storyteller and he loved to whistle. He had a quiet sense of humor and was hilarious if you were paying attention. He was a preacher that was never "preachy," a champion for human dignity, devoted to his family and to his God, and faithful 'til the end.

His special presence will be sorely missed.

His life has been his greatest sermon.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1808 Bridge Street, St. Matthews, SC 29135 and the Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.dukesharleyfuneralhome.com or https://www.facebook.com/Dukes-Harley-Funeral-Home-and-Crematory-304968586272868