Mary Magdaline White - dean, teacher, mentor, hugger, prayer warrior, sister, mother, and dear friend - after battling progressive stage IV breast cancer and leptomeningeal disease, left this life while resting in bed on Friday May 10, 2024.  She was 56 years old. 

Mary was born on September 23, 1967 in Orangeburg, South Carolina. She is the daughter of the late Shirley and Arthur Gardner Jr. Mary White was a member of Cornerstone Community church in Orangeburg, South Carolina. She enjoyed listening to music, cooking, laughing and praying with family and friends, babysitting her grandchildren, going to the beach, and traveling.

Mary graduated from Orangeburg Wilkinson High School in 1985. She continued her education by graduating from Claflin University in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice and then her Master of Science in Transportation and Civil Engineering from South Carolina State University in 2017.

Throughout her lifetime, Mary found her calling in serving students in need of a helping hand.  She has worked in various school settings such as Voorhees College, Hunter-Kinard-Tyler High School, Brookdale Elementary, and most recently at South Carolina State University (SCSU).

 Affectionately known as "Mama White" by many students at SCSU, Mary has been employed at SCSU for over 20 years serving as secretary in Brooks Health Center, Student Service Program Coordinator for the Dr. Emily E. Clyburn Honors College, and most recently promoted as the Dean of Students for SCSU.

Mary was known for going the extra mile to help anyone in need. She was a loving spirit that made friends easily. She was always willing to listen to any problem, big or small, and do her best to provide a solution, advice, hug, and encouraging words. She was rarely seen without a smile, always ready to share a laugh, and quick to say her favorite phrase "Jesus Fix It". Those fortunate enough to know her, praise her dedication to student's success, guidance, joyous and loving spirit, and her commitment and love for Christ and her children. 

Mary is survived by her children: Valerie E. Nwadeyi, Deloris U. Nwadeyi, Maryah A. Smith, Jeremiah R. Brown, brother: Willie C. White, nephew: Jamerial B. White, grandchildren: Zuri P. Smith and Kevin J. Smith III, Son-In-Law: Kevin J. Smith II, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, loving students, and dear friends. 

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