Earline McCary Ricard

Gwendolin "Earline" McCary Ricard, 79, of Leesville, SC, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025. A beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted community member, Earline lived a life marked by compassion, faith, and service to others. Born in Edgefield, South Carolina, Earline was a proud graduate of Strom Thurmond High School. She enjoyed a successful 30-year career with Honeywell, where her dedication and integrity earned her the respect and friendship of many colleagues.

After retirement, Earline remained active in her community. She worked for many years at Walmart, where she brought warmth and kindness to coworkers and customers alike. For over 15 years, she volunteered selflessly with Batesburg EMS and the Gilbert-Summit Fire Department, always ready to lend a helping hand in times of need.

A devoted member of St. James Lutheran Church (Summit), Earline’s life was grounded in faith and service. She was also a proud member of the Woodmen of the World and regularly participated in activities at the Gilbert-Summit Senior Center, where she formed lasting friendships and gave generously of her time.

Earline's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children: Elizabeth "Beth" Gossett (Wesley), Melissa Brewer (Mark), and Paul Ricard (Christi); her cherished grandchildren: Thomas Ricard (Paige), DJ Heywood (Holly), Ashleah Williams (Senica), Dalton Heywood, Isabelle Gossett, Kayla Ferguson (Taylor), Audrey Addy, Krista Jones, Bailey Gunter (Gwen), Bryce Addy, and Callie Blanco (John). She is also survived by her loving sisters-in-law: Mary Lynn McCary, Mary Padgett, Onlee McGee, Lanette Black, Lou Ellen Foster, Marie Hodge, and Betty Ricard. In addition to her parents and her beloved husband of 52 years, Samuel R. Ricard, Earline was preceded in death by her brother, James Wayne McCary.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 2nd at St. James Lutheran Church (Summit), with the Rev. Jim Glander officiating. Burial will follow in the churchyard. The family will receive friends on Sunday evening, June 1st, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Milton Shealy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Earline's honor to St. James Lutheran Church or Prisma Health Children's Hospital—honoring her lifelong commitment to helping others.

The family would like to give a specials thanks to Lighthouse Hospice, especially, Jennifer B., Keesha R., Charlene and Aimee B., for the love and care shown to Earline.