Mrs. Emma Lucile Moore Gathers

Emma Lucile Moore Gathers, 99, was born on November 21, 1923, in Sumter County, South Carolina to Jacob Washington Moore, Sr., and Pernelop Brown Pinckney Moore. Affectionately known as “Lucile” to her family and friends, she was the youngest of nine siblings. Mrs. Gathers peacefully entered eternal rest with her Lord on Friday, November 17, 2023 at National Healthcare, Sumter. Lucile was educated in the public schools of Sumter County and graduated from Lincoln High School in Sumter. She received her B.A. Degree in Elementary Education from Allen University, Columbia, SC. Lucile continued her educational pursuit and received a M.A. degree in Education from the University of Indiana. She taught at DeLaine Elementary School for 33 years. Lucile accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. She worshipped and served the Christian community as a member of Wayman Chapel A.M.E. Church, Sumter. She was a woman of faith, wisdom, strength and knowledge, and consistently helped others that were in need of an encouraging word or resources. Lucile was an active member of the Sunday School Class #1, Stewardess Board, Missionary Society and a Trustee. Professionally, she was a life member of the National Educator’s Association, the South Carolina State Education Association, and the Sumter County Retired Educator’s Association. Emma “Lucile” lived a full and rich Christian life while she served her church and community. In addition to her parents, Lucile was preceded in death by her husband, David Gathers; seven siblings: Julius Pinckney, Louise Pinckney Bolden, Elnora Pinckney Palmer, James Pinckney, John Pinckney, Mary E. Pinckney Ragins, and Katherine Pinckney Spann. Those left to cherish her fond memories are daughter: Jocelyn G. Drakeford of Silver Spring, MD; two grandchildren: Gui R. Drakeford of Laurel, MD, and Janelle S. Drakeford of Odenton, MD; one great-grandchild: Samya M. Drakeford (Lamesha Harrison-mother); one brother: Jacob W. (Mary) Moore, Jr. of Philadelphia, PA; a dedicated cousin, support and caregiver: Meriam Gadson, a loving host of nieces, nephews, friends, spiritual sons and daughters. *Services will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023 at Wayman Chapel A.M.E. Church, 160 Kings Hwy, Sumter, SC. Viewing at the church starts at: 10:00am to 11:00 am. Homegoing Service: 11:00 to 12:00noon. Interment: Church Cemetery. The Live Streaming will begin at the hour of service on Friday via Facebook: Wayman Chapel A.M.E. Church FB page.

Mrs. Emma Lucile Moore Gathers

November 21, 1923 - November 17, 2023