Mary Lee Phillips Catoe

Mary Lee Phillips Catoe, age 95, of the Mt. Pisgah community, Kershaw, S.C., walked through the gates of Heaven on Sunday, March 29, 2026. Born on May 1, 1930, she was the eldest of nine siblings born to the late Rev. Orie E. Phillips and Sue Lee Broome Phillips. Mary Lee was married to the late Ralph Richard Catoe, and they enjoyed 51 years together.

Mary Lee was an accomplished seamstress, sewing beautiful clothing and making alterations. People came from far and wide to enlist her services, and she enjoyed visiting with each one. Her home was a warm and inviting place to all. She was a good friend to many and never met a stranger. She also served as a 4-H Club representative in Kershaw County.

She was a faithful member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in Jefferson, S.C., where she served in many capacities. She taught Sunday School, Acteens, and numerous Bible studies. Mary Lee had a heart for missions and served as WMU director at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, as well as for the Kershaw Association, for many years. She also served as a devotional leader for the Kershaw Senior Citizens at the bowling alley for several years. Serving her Lord was her passion and brought her joy throughout the years. Her life exemplified Christ-like love through humble service.

Mary Lee is survived by her brothers, Frank Phillips (Marion) of Heath Springs, S.C., Fred Phillips (Ruth) of Kershaw, S.C., and Larry Phillips of Kershaw, S.C.; her sister, Pam Melton of Kershaw, S.C.; and her sisters-in-law, Nancy Phillips of Kershaw, S.C., and Peggy Phillips of Lancaster, S.C.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Annie L. Catoe, and her brothers, Ferris Phillips, PFC Wylie Phillips, and Ernest Phillips.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery, 2140 McBee Highway, Jefferson, S.C. 29718. Rev. Terry Corder will officiate. The burial will follow in the cemetery.

The family will receive friends following the service at the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, 2140 McBee Highway, Jefferson, S.C. 29718, in memory of Mrs. Catoe.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, S.C.