Lillie Ruth (Garrison) Edwards

Courtesy Announcement

Lillie Ruth Garrison Edwards, 78, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, March 29, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born January 13, 1948, in Gaffney, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Bishop Samuel Garrison and Ermy Galloway Garrison.

She was a graduate of Granard High School, Class of 1966, and earned degrees from Bennett College and Winthrop University. A devoted educator, Lillie served nearly 40 years as a teacher and school administrator in South Carolina and North Carolina. She was a former principal of Nevitt Forest Elementary School in Anderson, SC for a number of years.  Before her health declined, she was an active member of St. Stephens AME Zion Church in Gastonia, NC and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

She was preceded in death by several siblings. She is survived by her children, Walter "Ruggie" Edwards, Jr. (Gala) and Olema L. Edwards; a bonus son, Arkevius "Kevie" Lineberger; one sister, Delois "Pete" Manning; three grandsons; two great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends.

The family is receiving friends at 140 Oakbrook Lane, Gaffney, SC.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, April 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., in The Gilmore Mortuary Chapel with Rev. Milton Edwards presiding.

Services entrusted to Gilmore Mortuary, 305 West Rutledge Avenue, Gaffney, SC 29341. 

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