Clara Mae Pope Cox Carter, 88, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, in Florence, South Carolina.

A daughter of the late James and Mary Martin Pope, Clara was born on June 11, 1936, in the Pleasant Hill Community of Georgetown County, South Carolina.  She lived a life rooted in faith, service, and devotion to her family and community.

A proud graduate of high school, Clara furthered her education at Horry-Georgetown Technical College, where she earned a two-year degree and became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).   In addition, she was an ordained minister of the Pentecostal Holiness Church and served faithfully as a pastor's wife. Her ministry extended far beyond the pulpit; she was a servant of the Lord wherever she went.

Clara found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She especially loved reading her Bible—a daily source of inspiration and guidance—and walking outdoors with her daughter-in-law. She also enjoyed many hours outdoors cultivating the flowers in her garden.

Clara is survived by a son Rodney (Vanessa) Cox; granddaughters Courtney (Justin) Gibson and Mae (Michael) Manson; great-grandchildren Jack McCann Cox, Wes Gibson, Cory Anne Gibson, and Clark Manson; and a brother Larry Pope.

In addition to her parents, Clara was pre-deceased by husbands Francis "Pud" Cox and Rev. John O. Carter; a son Brian Cox; and sisters Geraldine Joy and Marie Douglas.

A graveside service, directed by Morris Funeral Home of Hemingway, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025 in the Garden of Devotion, 800 S. Georgetown Highway, Johnsonville, South Carolina, 29555.