JO ANN COSKREY

Jo Ann Coskrey, 80, wife of Blaney A. Coskrey Jr., died Friday, Feb. 4, 2011, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born Dec. 27, 1930, in Conway, she was a daughter of the late Lawrence Monroe Sr. and Grace Johnson Benson. Mrs. Coskrey grew up in Alcolu and Manning before moving to Sumter. She was married for 54 years to her loving husband. Although ensuring her family's happiness and well-being was the work of her life, she also worked in administrative positions for various doctors and medical providers. Mrs. Coskrey was a member of First Presbyterian Church.

Among her greatest joys were her husband, children, and grandchild. In addition to her beloved family, her interests in later life included watching birds, reading the many books she collected, working jigsaw puzzles, and learning all she could about the world beyond her window. With her warm and gentle smile, Mrs. Coskrey made many friends with the people whose paths crossed hers.

Surviving are her husband of Sumter; one son, Blaney A. Coskrey III of Columbia; one daughter, Grace Coskrey Hawthorne; son-in-law, Leland S. Hawthorne; and granddaughter, Elizabeth Ann Hawthorne, all of Clemson; two brothers, Wallace I. Benson of Manning and Robert O. Benson of Wilmington, N.C.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Lawrence M. Benson Jr.

Graveside services were held Sunday, Feb. 6, 2011, at Evergreen Cemetery in Summerton with Dr. Mark Durrett officiating.

Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 9 W. Calhoun St., Sumter, SC 29150 or to a charity of one's choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.