ELLEN RUTH PEAY SPRINGER

Ellen Ruth Peay Springer, 83, started her journey on Sept. 20, 1935, in Lugoff, Kershaw County. She was the fourth child of the late Willie and Mattie Peay. The family grew up in a Christian home, singing gospel harmonies. In pursuit of her life goals, she relocated to the Bronx County of New York City in the 1950's, joining her older sister, Willie Lee. There, she met Walter Springer, they got married and resided in Queens, New York. Ellen attended the Greater Allen AME Church of Queens. Ellen became a licensed beautician, seamstress and home health aide. She held the position of chairperson for the South Jamaica Head Start Program for many years. In 1978, she purchased a multidwelling home in Jamaica, Queens, where she nurtured countless youth and adults who were in need. Many were adopted and are now living productive lives.

Ellen departed this life unexpectedly on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019.

She leaves to cherish her memories: sisters, Lillian Massey of Lugoff and Dorothy Peay of Montgomery, Alabama; her children, Sylvia Ann, Walter Jr., Regina, Pablo, Manuel, Anthony, Shawanna, Richard, Lisa, Mary and Monique; 30 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three godchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the home of Lillian Peay, Boulevard Road, Lugoff.

Homegoing services will be held at noon Saturday at Ephesus Family Life Center, 274 Lachicotte Road, Lugoff, with the Rev. Terrie Norfleet officiating, eulogist.

The remains will be placed in the church at 11 a.m.

The funeral procession will leave at 11:20 a.m. from the home.

Burial will be at Ephesus United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Services directed by the management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter. Online messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr.com. Visit us on the web at www.WilliamsFuneralHomeInc.com.