Gerald Hiers Obituary

Gerald Ray Hiers BAMBERG, SC - Gerry, born on July 24, 1934, and raised in Bamberg, South Carolina, peacefully departed this world on January, 4, 2024 at the age of 89. A devoted wife, she was predeceased by her loving husband of 65 years, James Bernard ("Pedie") Hiers, and was the daughter of the late Shannon George Ray and Helen Free Ray of Bamberg, SC and sister to the late Helen Daniel McCormick. Gerry was a vibrant member of the Bamberg community. She was a faithful member of the Bamberg First Baptist Church, where she was a Sunday School teacher for many years. She educated many of the town's youth as a 3rd grade teacher at Bamberg-Ehrhardt. Her sons fondly remember delivering meals with her to those in need. She enjoyed Garden Club, Bridge Club, Dinner Clubs, and any occasion to be with her neighbors and friends, especially Lynn Anderson, Lilian Bamberg, the late Ginger McCully, the late Sally Bishop, and the late Georgia Laney. When not in Bamberg, she took every opportunity to be at the beach. This love started as a child when she spent summers in Myrtle Beach with her family. Edisto and Sanibel later became two of her favorite destinations. Through these trips she developed a love for collecting shells, a hobby that led to many talks educating others on rare shells and helping name the state shell of South Carolina. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Gerry's legacy lives on through her four boys: James Hiers (Martine) of Sullivan's Island, SC, John Hiers (late Laura Hiers) of Columbia, SC, Shannon Hiers ( Scot) of Bamberg, SC and Daniel Ray Hiers (Elizabeth) of Mt. Pleasant, SC. Her warmth and kindness extended to her grandchildren: Laura Ames Predergraft (Austin) of Greensboro, NC, Hart Hiers of Raleigh, NC, McIver Hiers of Wadmalaw Island, SC, Headen Hiers of Mt. Pleasant, SC and Henry Hiers of Mt. Pleasant, SC. She was the proud great-grandmother of Jaxon Predergraft of Greensboro, NC. She is also survived by her nieces, grandnieces and nephews and great- grandnieces. Gerry will be remembered for her unwavering love, generosity (especially during the Christmas season), and the joy she brought to those fortunate enough to know her. May she leave behind cherished memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to her neighbors, Randy and Mary Jane Maxwell, as well as Liz Johnson and Lucie Cavaroc for their friendship and support over the years. Funeral Services will be 12:00pm Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at Bamberg First Baptist Church with a reception to follow for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bamberg First Baptist Church or Bamberg County Office on Aging (www.bcooa.org). Cooner Funeral Home in charge of Arrangements.