Mrs. Marayal Dorothy Lites Wise

Marayal Dorothy Lites Wise, daughter of the late John ad Ethel Dent Lites, was born in Lexington County, South Carolina on February 6, 1921. She was the widow of Willie Oscar Wise. She departed this life Sunday, October 3, 2021, at the Agape Hospice Home in Lexington, SC.

She was predeceased by sisters Leola Lites, Catherine Lites, Johnnie Mae Lites Graves Thelma Lites Hendrix, and Hertisene Lites Gates; brothers Arlee Lites and McCoy Lites.

Marayal loved the Lord, her church, children and family. She loved flowers and enjoyed working in her yard and garden on Hendrix Street. She was a parent figure to many young children, especially at her home on Hendrix Street.

She retired from Lexington School District One as a cafeteria worker.

She was a faithful member of Spring Hill African Methodist Episcopal Church and served faithfully in many positions. She was a director of the Youth Choir, head of the kitchen committee for many years, member of the Good Neighbor Club, Women's Missionary Society, Stewardess Board, and Senior Choir. Four years ago on the first Sunday in August, Eddie Davis asked her to lead a selection for the Usher Board. She led "You Ought to Call Him by His Name."  She served loyally and enjoyed working in the church.

Marayal stated that the key to living to 100 years of age is: Trusting in the Lord, being a genuine good person, and loving children. She was always so thankful for the people who always asked about her and her health. She read The State newspaper thoroughly until her health failed. She would just fuss about things in the paper that she didn't agree with!

Marayal was married to the late Willie Oscar Wise. They were blessed with three children: Shirley Wise (the late Sherrill) Harris, Vanita Louise (Luther) Wise, and Barbara Anderson Wright. Cherishing her memories are her children; grandson, Tionfilo Lamont (Charmika) Wright; Great grandchildren, Shamar Wright and Amor Alonna Wright; godchildren, Greta Robinson and her son, Marcus. She was so proud of her family, especially her nieces, nephews, and extended family who have been so supportive of her, and her dear friends, Jessie Sargent, Shirley Taylor, and Lillian Gates who was her prayer partner for many years.