S 0409  Resolution, By Setzler
 A SENATE RESOLUTION TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF GERALDINE
 "GERI" JONES MCILWAIN AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND
 MANY FRIENDS.

   01/12/21  Senate Introduced and adopted (Senate Journal-page 304)

TO EXPRESS PROFOUND SORROW UPON THE PASSING OF GERALDINE "GERI" JONES MCILWAIN AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Geraldine "Geri" Jones McIlwain on October 6, 2020; and

Whereas, a native of Estill, South Carolina, Geraldine "Geri" Jones McIlwain was born on August 31, 1943. She was an alumna of Benedict College, where she earned a bachelor's degree and was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; and

Whereas, Geri taught first grade for forty years in Swansea, where she briefly retired before returning to teach in Columbia for an additional three years. She had a reputation for inspiring and impacting the lives of her students; and

Whereas, Geri married the love of her life, the late Reverend William "Billy" McIlwain, in 1966. Together, they had four children and lived in Columbia; and

Whereas, as a pastor's wife, she was known as "Mother McIlwain" to all who knew and loved her. Throughout Reverend McIlwain's forty years as a pastor, the two worked faithfully to spread the gospel of Jesus; and

Whereas, Geri was preceded in death by her parents, Evelyn and Johnny Jones, and her devoted husband, William McIlwain; and

Whereas, she leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Bertha Vaughn; two brothers, Johnny Jones and Harold Jones; four children, Selenda (Darryn) Nichols, Roddy (Chalena) McIlwain, Anthony (Elinah) McIlwain, and Adrian (Tanisha) McIlwain; fourteen grandchildren; and one great-grandson. She will be greatly missed. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, express profound sorrow upon the passing of Geraldine "Geri" Jones McIlwain and extend deepest sympathy to her family and many friends.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Geraldine "Geri" Jones McIlwain.