Our Legacy

Clementa Pinckney spent many summers right here in Marion County with his family. He was ordained at age 18 and was the youngest member of the SC State Legislature at age 23. His wife, Jennifer, and two daughters, Eliana and Malana, visit the park as a place to remember their loving father and honor his legacy.

Mr. Tywanza Kibwe Diop Sanders was born, raised, and encouraged by his parents in Charleston, SC. He graduated from both Greenville Tech and Denmark Tech, as well as Allen University. His passionate side embraced poetry, and his entrepreneurial spirit brought him to barbering. The youngest victim of that tragedy, Tywanza lived a genuine and faith-filled life.

Reverend Daniel Lee Simmons was raised in Mullins, SC, He graduated Palmetto High School and earned his bachelors and two advanced degrees, all the while raising a family. He was awarded a Purple Heart during his time serving the US Army. Later in life, we worked as a counselor and teacher, and became one of Greyhound’s first black bus drivers. He loved jazz music and served his community as a pastor as well. His philosophy lives on…”Kindness always wins.”

Reverend Sharonda Coleman-Singleton was many things. A speech pathologist, a teacher, a track coach, a doctoral student, a minister, but most importantly - a mother. A transplant to SC from New Jersey, she made a life serving the youth of her community, whether it be at school, on the track, or at her church.

Myra Thompson was a Citadel graduate who dedicated her life to serving the community through education and counseling in the Charleston area. Just hours before the tragedy, she was re-licensed to preach and that evening was her first time leading the bible study class. She is survived by her husband and 3 children.

Mrs. Ethel Lee Lance was a devoted Christian and mother. She could be found at church nearly 7 days a week, and if she wasn’t there, she was tending to her large family. She was always encouraging her family to succeed and was the epitome of love.

Mrs. Susie Jackson was a quintessential family woman, coming from a large family and having a big heart. She married and raised her children, and was later adored by her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was active in her church and enjoyed singing in the choir.

Mrs. Cynthia Graham Hurd was a life-long learner and lover of books. She graduated from Clark Atlanta University, as well as the University of South Carolina. She spent her life spreading her love of books while working at the Charleston County Public Library, while also encouraging others to do the same.

Reverend DePayne V. Middleton was a graduate of Columbia College and Southern Weslyan University. She spent her career helping others. Whether working for the community, Charleston residents, or the schools, her heart was always in the right place. As a mother to four beautiful daughters, her presence is missed each and every day.