Funeral services announced for Orangeburg woman found dead in floodwaters

Obituary

Funeral services have been announced for an Orangeburg woman who was found dead in floodwaters last week.

The body of 65-year-old Mary Alice Spann was found in a ditch near her home on Thursday, August 25, 2023. She had been reported missing the day before after she went outside to check on her property during the heavy rains.

Spann's funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at Simmons Funeral Home and Crematory. Burial will follow in the Orangeburg Cemetery.

Spann was a lifelong resident of Orangeburg and a member of Trinity Baptist Church. She was a retired nurse and volunteered her time at the local soup kitchen.

She is survived by her husband, John Spann; two daughters, Mary Alice Spann Jr. and Sarah Spann; and four grandchildren.

Statement from the family

"We are heartbroken by the loss of our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother," the family said in a statement. "She was a kind and compassionate woman who always put others before herself. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her."

Orangeburg community mourns

The Orangeburg community is mourning the loss of Spann. She was a well-known and respected member of the community, and her death has come as a shock to many.

"She was a wonderful woman who always had a smile on her face," said neighbor Jane Doe. "She will be greatly missed."

The Orangeburg County Sheriff's Office is investigating Spann's death. However, no foul play is suspected at this time.