Madeline Newman Obituary

Madeline Clagett Newman (Huff) Charleston - Madeline Clagett Newman (Huff) passed away peacefully on 15 August 2017 in Charleston, SC. Madeline was born in Orangeburg, SC, February 19, 1923, to Clarence R. and Hattie M. Clagett. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Clarence R. Clagett, Jr. (Orangeburg, SC) and Robert S. Clagett AIA in 1969 (Los Angeles, CA). The love of her life, William M. Newman, predeceased her in 1977. Madeline will be lovingly remembered by children, Muriel A. Thomas of Rock Hill, SC, and Ray Huff (Wendi) of Charleston, SC; grandchildren: Vishantese Huff of Charlotte, NC, Robert Shawn Thomas of Detroit, MI, Raven Slade (Michael) of Atlanta, GA, Rodrick Thomas (Krista) of Eastpointe, MI, Adrian Thomas (deceased) and Nicholas Nance (Charlotte, NC); niece, Lillian Clagett of Los Angeles, CA; nephews, Randy Clagett of Portland, OR, and Martin Clagett (deceased) and many other relatives and friends. Madeline taught elementary school in Charleston for almost 40 years and retired in 1983. She began her teaching career with a practicum at the Penn Center School in Frogmore, SC, and later taught at Avery Institute of Charleston in 1944-45. She received her baccalaureate from South Carolina State University (College) and her Master of Science Degree from University of Pennsylvania. She completed post-graduate study at University of Miami. She joined the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority while in college and a member of the Entre Nous and Three-Fours Bridge Clubs over 65 years. A lifetime member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, she served on the Vestry for many years including eight years as Vestry secretary. Her role in the Church included five years as Financial Secretary of the Episcopal Church Women Council. Active in community affairs, she served for almost 30 years in the Roper Hospital Auxiliary as a volunteer accumulating over 7,000 hours of service to the hospital, including serving on the Auxiliary Board for six years and as President of the group for two years. Madeline and Walter Brown were the first African American teachers to integrate the teaching ranks at a Charleston County school. Always "on the go", she remained active until her passing. Ever ready with a smile and the offer "Can I get you something to eat?". She traveled extensively with her longtime friend Theola Smalls. A funeral mass will be held this morning, Saturday August 19, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Mark's Episcopal Church at 16 Thomas Street (corner of Thomas and Warren Streets) in Charleston. The Repast will be held at the church's parish house at 18 Thomas Street, immediately following the service. Expressions of sympathy may be sent on behalf of the family at www.palmettomortuary.com and via the guestbook at www.legacy.com/search. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Mark's Episcopal Church at www.saintmarkschurch.com. , Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston