Ollie Mae (Hawkins) McNeil

Ollie Mae Hawkins McNeil entered eternal rest on November 5, 2025. Born January 31, 1939, in Spartanburg County. She was the beloved daughter of the late Claude B. Bennett and the late Ruby Hawkins.

A lifelong servant, encourager, and faithful woman of God, Ollie’s life was defined by love, education, service, and joyful fellowship. A 1958 graduate of Carver High School, she was a proud student-athlete who excelled in basketball. Her love for sports never faded — she remained a devoted fan of the Boston Celtics, Clemson and HBCU football, as well as the Dallas Cowboys.

After spending time exploring the world, Ollie returned home to Spartanburg to be close to her son, Charles (wife Zina), and her beloved grandchildren Charles II (CK) and Zana. She spent half of her life in the community that shaped her, giving back in every way possible.

Twenty years after high school, Ollie boldly pursued higher education, earning her Bachelor of Science degree from Jersey City State College. Her professional life was as diverse and dynamic as she was — she thrived as a business owner, national purchasing manager, substitute teacher across three states, and domestic victim’s rights advocate. Yet, her greatest joy came through her service for the Lord.

As a member of Bunton CME Church for more than 3 decades, Ollie served faithfully as Missionary President for over eight years. She founded the Annual Advent Prayer Breakfast and organized the first Winston-Salem/Greenville Missionary Society Heritage Mission Meal. She also served as Regional and District Overseas Mission President, providing clothing, school supplies, and personal items for children in Africa. Her tireless efforts and selfless spirit inspired recognition from missionary leaders across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Outside of her church and mission work, Ollie was known for her radiant smile, generous hospitality, no-nonsense attitude and unforgettable cooking — especially her famous fried chicken, potato salad, candied yams, and banana pudding. She delighted in traveling, celebrating family, and filling every gathering with laughter, warmth, and love.

Ollie’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her, especially her younger sister Sara, son and his family, her extended family to include  church family, work family, and countless bonus children whose lives she touched along the way.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ollie’s memory to Bunton CME Church (Missionary Society & Sunday School Class #3, Reggie Thomas, teacher) via Cash App at $lifeatbunton, or to Safe Homes of Spartanburg – Project R.E.S.T., supporting victims of domestic abuse:
https://projectrest.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/projectrest/donation.jsp

Her life was a living testimony of faith, courage, and compassion — a true servant leader who ran her race with grace and finished it with peace.

Arrangements have been entrusted with Community Mortuary, Inc., 102 Marion Avenue, Spartanburg, SC. 

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