Alice Middleton Pickney

Alice M. Pickney left this life to return to the open arms of Jesus on November 11, 2023. Alice was born June 5, 1935, in Eutawville, South Carolina. She was the fifth child of seven children born to the late Mr. and Mrs. Hazel (Jannie) Middleton of Eutawville, SC. Alice attended the public schools of Orangeburg County. She received her BA in Education from Claflin University and her Master’s in Higher Education from South Carolina State University. Alice was a natural nurturer and loved children. After obtaining her degrees, she started her career at Vance Providence Elementary School. She served as a teacher for 35 years. She retired from teaching in 1998. She then served on the Orangeburg County School Board for 17 years where she was appointed by the governor. At an early age, Alice joined Greater St. Paul United Methodist Church, where she served in numerous capacities such as Certified Lay Speaker, Sunday School Teacher, Pastor Parish Relations Committee, Council on Ministry, Trustee Board, Finance Committee, Communion Steward, Delegate of the Annual Conference, President of the United Methodist Women in faith. In addition, she served on the district, local, and state levels for the United Methodist Women in faith. Alice was a dedicated community servant and was acknowledged for her commitment throughout the community. She was a lifetime member of the NAACP, Delegate to Democratic Party Convention, elected lay-member (delegate) to South Carolina Annual Conference for 17 years, District Teacher of the year (1990), Concerned Citizens, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and Voters’ Registration Committee. In 1966 she was married to Mr. Anthony Pickney in Chattanooga, TN. Alice had six siblings who preceded her in death, Mattie Lee, Rilla Wigfall, Richard Middleton, Mary Mitchell, Daniel Brown, and Reverend Leroy Middleton. She leaves to cherish fond memories: her son, William Geathers of New York; two daughters, Robin Middleton-Capers of Elgin, South Carolina, and Angela Pickney-Hall (Christopher) of the home; three grandchildren, Jarryl (Briana) Capers, Mychela Capers, and Jordan Hall; eight great-grandchildren, Peyton, Chris, Ayden, Jakobi, Savonne, Layla, Wynter, and Messiah; in addition, she leaves behind her sister, Rosa Starkes of Eutawville, South Carolina; caregiver, Tawana Smalls-Howard of Vance, South Carolina; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other friends and family. She will be remembered for her love of others, dedication, and her kind heart.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alice Middleton Pickney, please visit our floral store.