Sylvia Grainger Harrelson: Statesville

1950 – 2023

     Sylvia Grainger Harrelson of Statesville passed away on Dec. 14 while surrounded by her loving family. She was 73.

     Sylvia was born March 16, 1950 in Columbus County and was the daughter of the late Ralphael E. “Rafe” Grainger and Blanche Caroline Gore.

     Sylvia grew up in Tabor City where she graduated from Tabor City High School. She continued her education by attending and graduating from Methodist College.

     She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Duane Harrelson, who was her high school sweetheart; one daughter, Amanda Templeton; and two grandchildren, Savannah, and Jacob; all who live in Statesville.

     Her love for young children was her passion, and teaching kindergarten at Statesville Montessori School for 27 years was her career. She is known for hosting the annual “Teddy Bear Tea Party” in her classroom. After retirement, the grandchildren became Nana’s focus and one daily event was often watching TV game shows together. “Miss Sylvia” joyed in teaching them academics as well as life skills.

     In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one sister, Patricia Fitzgerald.

     Graveside services were planned for 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 28, in the Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cemetery, Loris.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 217141.

     Sign a guest register here.