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Trudy McNelis Obituary

Trudy McNelis CHARLESTON - Trudy J. McNelis, 80, passed away on June 24, 2025, just one day shy of her 81st birthday, in Charleston, SC. A matriarchal figure both in her family and her profession, Trudy's life was marked by her leadership spirit and her unwavering dedication to her loved ones. Born on June 25, 1944, Trudy was a loving, supportive wife and mother who exemplified strength and independence. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family. Her presence was a source of comfort and joy, and her guidance was always sought after by those she loved. Trudy is predeceased by her parents, Pauline and Thomas Jackson, her brother, Thomas Jackson, and her husband, William J. McNelis. She is survived by a loving family: her son, William J. McNelis (Greta), daughters, Caroline M. Spahr (Jeffrey) and Ann Marie Smiley (Brad), and grandchildren, Otto W. Spahr, Ryder J. Spahr, Hunter R. Smiley, and John A. Smiley, her sister, Gayleen Barone, her brother, Timothy Jackson (Pam), sister-in-law, Ann Jackson, brother-in-law, Christopher McNelis (Kim), brother-in-law, Richard McNelis (Linda), sister-in-law, Callie Schlippert (Bill), and by many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great- nephews. She will be dearly remembered and deeply missed by all. A celebration of Trudy's life will be held in the Spring of 2026.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Jun. 26 to Jun. 27, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Trudy McNelis

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Nell Postell

July 2, 2025

My condolences to all. So sorry she was a lovely lady. Rest in peace my friend.

Kendra

July 1, 2025

Aunt Trudy always made me feel special. I loved brushing her beautiful long silky hair and massaging her back. She always cooked wonderful
Tasty foods. So many great memories I treasure . I love my Aunt Trudy

Vicki Dinges Prall

June 30, 2025

Wonderful memories of our days at Bellwood. We were majorettes and had great discussions, mainly about boys. A special time to grow up - and Trudy was a special friend.

Rick McNelis

June 29, 2025

Linda and I had known Trudy for some fifty five years. In that time, I don´t think I ever heard her speak ill of anyone. She was a diamond in the rough and will be greatly missed. Will, Carrie and Annie, I love you all

Callie McNelis Schlippert

June 29, 2025

Shortly before she died, Trudy and I decided to become sisters rather than sisters-in-law.
I will miss her.

Amanda Richardson

June 28, 2025

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love and miss you always. My condolences to her family and friends that she loved dearly. I will never forget Mrs. Trudy she had an incredible heart and soul. She´s an angel up there!

Devon McNelis

June 27, 2025

My Aunt Trudy was truly one of my favorite people. I have so many wonderful memories of her since I was little. I am very lucky to have had her in my life. Thinking of her children (my awesome cousins) during this difficult time.

Cheryll Woods-Flowers

June 27, 2025

Oh my goodness this is sad news this morning. I have known so many wonderful people in my life but few had a soul as kind as Trudy did. We were fast friends, meeting for the first time in 2002 when I joined Prudential on Coleman Blvd and I have never forgotten her kindness and true love for all that she encountered. My sympathies go out to her family and to all who loved her.

Patrick Tivnan

June 27, 2025

Your presence will be missed.

Sharon Robson

June 26, 2025

I did not know you Trudy, but I know you were deeply loved. Will and Greta often talked about you and the impact that you had on their lives. You will be missed. My thoughts are with your family.

Miriam S Rhett

June 26, 2025

Truly sorry for Trudy's passing; she was a great role model for me when I entered the profession of Real Estate; she was a constant and had a calming approach to any problem I presented. Condolences for each of you and may you find comfort in your memories of her and your closeness as a family.

Suzi Baldrick

June 26, 2025

Hugging you and your family tight in prayer. Trudy will be greatly missed as she was truly one-of-a-kind with such a zest for life and a huge heart
God bless ~
Suzi Baldrick

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