Mary Lee McKinney Oglesby

Mary Lee Oglesby was born on January 14, 1935, in Cherokee County, South Carolina, the daughter of the late T.C. And Julia McKinney.

She was educated in the schools of Spartanburg County and furthered her education at Galloway’s Beauty College in Gastonia, North Carolina.

Mary Lee devoted over 60 years as a skilled hairdresser. Through her press and curls, heartfelt conversations, and the warmth of opening her home, she touched countless lives in the Chesnee community. She made others feel seen, loved, and appreciated. She also faithfully served 30 years of employment with Reeves Brothers before retiring.

Mary Lee was more than a woman of service; she was a beloved matriarch within her family and community. Her home was a sanctuary of love, and her presence provided a covering of warmth and comfort.

She found joy in life’s meaningful pleasures shopping, hosting family dinners, watching The Young and the Restless, and fellowshipping with her church family and choir.

Her heart beat faithfully within the walls of Gethsemane Baptist Church, where she served as a devoted member. She was also a founding member of the C.E. McDowell Gospel Choir.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Vernon E. McKinney; her granddaughter, Lameca D. Smith; her brothers, Vernon Mackerson and Leroy Fridy; and her parents, who welcomed her into eternal rest.

Those left to cherish her legacy include her loving children: Jacqueline McKinney of Chesnee, South Carolina; Hayward McKinney of Chesnee, South Carolina; James (Verdell) McKinney of Oxford, Alabama; Linda K. (Lawrence) Smith of Mauldin, South Carolina; Barbara (Carl) Dunn of Chesnee, South Carolina; and Bobby (Maxine) Oglesby of Greenville, South Carolina. She is also survived by her sister, Pearl Gaffney of Chesnee, South Carolina.

Her greatest joy was her legacy of love reflected in her 21 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were deeply touched by her unwavering love.

On Thursday, April 9, 2026, Mary Lee peacefully transitioned at Upstate Community Hospice Home, surrounded by her family. Her final words, “Love one another,” remain a guiding light.

Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her legacy of love, strength, and faith will forever echo in the lives she touched.