Gerald Ray Hiers

In Loving Memory of Gerald Ray Hiers

Gerry, born on July 24, 1934, was raised in Bamberg, South Carolina, and peacefully departed this world on January 4, 2024,at the age of 89.  A devoted wife, she was predeceased by her loving husband of 67 years, James Bernard (“Pedie”) Hiers.  She was the daughter of the late Shannon George Ray and Helen Free Ray of Bamberg, SC and sister to the late Helen Daniel (“Dee”) McCormick.  

Gerry graduated Bamberg High School and attended Columbia College.  She obtained a teaching degree from The University of South Carolina before returning home to Bamberg, where shewas a vibrant member of the community.  She was a faithful member of 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 Elementary School. Her sons fondly remember delivering meals with her to those in need. She enjoyed Garden Club, Bridge Club, Dinner Club, and any occasion to be with her neighbors and friends, especially Lynn Free Anderson, Lilian Bamberg, the late Ginger McCully, the late Georgia Laney, and the late Sally Bishop.  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 instructingothers on rare shells and helping to 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 B. Hiers, Jr. (Martine) of Sullivan's Island, SC, John M. Hiers (late Laura W. Hiers) of Columbia, SC, Shannon H. Hiers (Scot) of Bamberg, SC and Daniel R. Hiers (Elizabeth) of Mt. Pleasant, SC.  Her warmth and kindness extended to her grandchildren: Laura Ames Pendergraft (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 Pendergraft of Greensboro, NC. She is also survived by her nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, one great grandniece and many loving cousins.  

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.  

The Funeral Service will be at 12:00 pm 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 is in charge of arrangements.