Mary Katherine McDaniel, 88, of Hardeeville, SC, passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2026, from heart failure. Born in Wythe County, VA, the daughter of Leta and Carlos Umberger.
Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Edward Saul; her sisters Betty Archer, Peggy (Bill) Friend, Cecile (James) Umberger; as well as her father- and mother-in-law Charles and Evelyn Saul. She is also preceded by brothers- and sisters-in-law Marie (Edward) Dobbins, Claria Neishell, Buddy King, Charles Saul and Jerry Thornton as well as dear friends Gordon and Ted Shelton.
Left to honor Mary’s memory are her son William C. Saul, his husband William M. Rutlin of Hardeeville, SC; her sisters-in-law, Shelvia King; Sherry (Otey) Mitchell; Bonnie Thornton; nephews Billy (Robin) Friend; Carlos (Lisa) Friend; Gary (Robin) Archer; nieces Becky Archer and partner Dana; Tamara Harrison; Tammy (Dustin) Pelkey; Tanya (Jeffrey) Crouse; cousin Jeff Cox; coworkers Sunshine, Karen, and Diane; neighbor Dorothy Little; housemate and p/t caregiver Roy Sebester, as well as many others who cherished her friendship.
Mary spent much of her life working as a sewing machine operator. She retired from Findlay Industries where she was known affectionately as "Granny" by coworkers for her warmth and generosity. In her younger years she painted and wallpapered homes with sister Peggy. She was no stranger to hard work and wore many hats including that of care-giver, spending many years caring for her aging parents. She no doubt touched countless lives with her kindness. To her son William, she was a beacon—a lighthouse guiding him through life—and now an angel watching over him.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind.
