Harriett Courtney Lemke

JOHNSTON, S.C. – Harriett Courtney Lemke, 64, entered into eternal life Saturday, January 31, 2015, at the home of her parents. Born in Johnston, South Carolina on May 19, 1950, Harriett was a beloved daughter, wife, sister, aunt, philanthropist, and friend to many.

Before serving as the Director of Admissions at Presbyterian College (PC), Harriett began her career as a mathematics teacher in the Charleston, South Carolina public school system. After working at PC for ten years, Harriett returned to her alma mater, Coker College, as the Associate Director of Admissions. While at Coker, Harriett met and married the love of her life, Dr. Jim Lemke.

Upon her departure from the field of Higher Education, Harriett’s creative talents radiated as she founded two companies, Two Bored Women Catering and Sellabration. Harriett also co-authored “The Screened Door Pantry,” a cookbook featuring a collection of family receipts, stories, and photographs dating back to the 1800s.

Harriett enjoyed spending her time serving the Hartsville community. An active member of First Presbyterian Church in Hartsville, South Carolina, Harriett served on many committees and as an Elder. Harriett’s love of gardening led her to become a Clemson University Certified State Master Gardener, a member of the Board of Directors for Kalmia Gardens of Coker College, a Master Gardener for Darlington County, and a former member of Pine and Lake Garden Club.

Harriett also served on the Board of Directors for Carolina Kids, LLC, the Executive Board of the Coker College Alumni Association, the Board of Directors for the Hartsville Community Concert, and a member of the Darlington County Transportation Committee. As a thirty-seven year cancer survivor, Harriett also enjoyed serving as co-chair of the Darlington County Relay for Life.

Preceded in death by her husband, Dr. James (Jim) Wayne Lemke of thirty years, Harriett is survived by her parents Lon and Averill Boatwright Courtney, of Johnston; her brother James (Ellen) Courtney, of Johnston; niece Harriett-Graham Courtney; nephew Harrison Courtney; and her loyal Boykin Spaniel and companion, Molly.

Visitation will be held Monday, the 2nd of February, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lemke residence in Hartsville, South Carolina. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, the 3rd of February, at 3 p.m. at Church of Our Saviour, 212 Church Street, Trenton, South Carolina. The family will receive visitors following the service on Tuesday at the home of Lon and Averill Courtney in Johnston, South Carolina. Memorials may be made to the church or charity of one’s choice.

Edgefield Mercantile Funeral Home is charge of arrangements.

Please sign the online register book at www.edgefieldmercantilefh.com