A house RESOLUTION

 

to express profound sorrow upon the passing of Alica Van Rensalier Lewis James of Orangeburg and to extend deepest sympathy to her loving family and many friends.

 

Whereas, Alica Van Rensalier Lewis James, a pioneering businesswoman, community leader, beloved mother, aunt, sister, and friend passed away on June 30, 2026, in Indian Land, just days before her eighty-eighth birthday; and

 

Whereas, born July 2, 1938, in New York City to the late Linwood and Millie Van Rensalier, Alica was raised in Sumter, where she graduated as valedictorian of Lincoln High School and was crowned Miss Lincoln; and

 

Whereas, in 1968, Alica made history as the first African American employee of the National Bank of South Carolina in Sumter, demonstrating exceptional financial acumen and helping advance integration in South Carolina's banking industry; and

 

Whereas, Alica devoted herself to civil rights, racial equality, education, and community service, including her participation on a special banking committee on race and her role in the integration of Catholic schools in Sumter; and

 

Whereas, after marrying William P. James in 1972, Alica moved to Orangeburg, where she spent fifty years and built a remarkable legacy through her work at South Carolina State University, ultimately managing the university bookstore; and

 

Whereas, Alica was renowned for her warmth, generosity, hospitality, and unwavering commitment to family and community.  She was affectionately known as "Mom" and "Auntie" to many and consistently offered encouragement, compassion, and tangible support to those in need; and

 

Whereas, before tailgating became commonplace, South Carolina State homecoming celebrations were often centered in the homes of Orangeburg families, and Alica's legendary homecoming gatherings became cherished traditions for students, alumni, family, and friends; and

 

Whereas, Alica leaves a lasting legacy through her daughter, Tanya Lewis Garrett; grandson, Lance L. Garrett; brother, Anthony "Tony" Van Rensalier and his wife, Saundra "Sue"; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends and loved ones, including her "Orangeburg" daughter, Janice Cobb Greene (Happy); and

 

Whereas, the life of Alica Van Rensalier Lewis James stands as a testament to perseverance, courage, entrepreneurship, service, family, friendship, and the transformative power of opening doors for those who follow; and

 

Whereas, we honor and celebrate the extraordinary life, service, leadership, and enduring legacy of Alica Van Rensalier Lewis James, whose contributions to South Carolina, education, banking, civil rights, and her community will long be remembered.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express profound sorrow upon the passing of Alica Van Rensalier Lewis James of Orangeburg and extend deepest sympathy to her loving family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Alica Van Rensalier Lewis James.

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