“My greatest accomplishments in life are my loving children, grandchildren, and great-grands.”
Alice Lewis Wyche Hurley, daughter of the late Kellene Lewis Wyche and Rudolph Melville Wyche, MD, and step-daughter of the late Carolyne Welborne Wyche, was born in Charlotte, North Carolina on August 18, 1934. She quietly and unexpectedly slipped away on Friday, November 26, 2021, while vacationing on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina.
At the tender age of nine, Alice lost her mother. Her Aunts, Ethel Wyche Martin and Alice Lewis Underdown, along with a family friend, Zelma Forney, stepped in to help raise her. In the 8th grade, she entered Palmer Memorial Institute, a private boarding school in Sedalia, North Carolina. The loss of her mother and boarding school undoubtedly helped to shape Alice into the extraordinarily determined, no-nonsense, independent and pragmatic woman we all knew and loved. In 1956, Alice received her Bachelor of Science degree from Boston University. While at Boston University, she joined the Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. After graduation, Alice moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked as a broadcaster for the famous radio station W.E.R.D. and began working on a Master of Social Work degree from Atlanta University. Graduate school was temporarily placed on hold in 1961, when she married her longtime friend and fellow Palmerite, Anthony “Tony” Hurley. She gave birth to their first child, Brian, in 1962. Shortly thereafter, she left him in Tony’s care and returned to graduate school, completed an internship at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, and received her Master’s degree in 1964, just months before giving birth to their second child, Kelly.
Upon her return to Columbia, Alice worked as a psychiatric social worker at Crafts Farrow State Hospital. In 1967, she began working as a social worker for Richland School District One. She was later promoted to Coordinator of Social Work Services, the position from which she retired in 1996. Immediately after retirement, Alice worked as a field liaison for the University of South Carolina’s College of Social Work. She also became a licensed funeral director and joined her husband at Manigault-Hurley Funeral Home. After the closing of the funeral home and Tony’s passing in 2015, Alice joined the staff at Leevy’s Funeral Home. At 85, she said it was finally time to retire when she realized that the staff had to help her more that they helped their clients.
Professionally, Alice was a member of the South Carolina Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, Phi Delta Kappa Educational Fraternity, Academy of Certified Social Workers, the Alliance of Black Educators, and the Columbia Mortician’s Association. Alice was a true humanitarian and staunch supporter of the Columbia community. She was a humble, get-the-job done woman, who tirelessly promoted the welfare of others without any expectation or want for accolades. She would simply identify a need and set the wheels in motion to fulfill the need. She was a grant writer for the W. A. Perry Middle School Task Force, Providence Hospital’s Seeing is Achieving project, the Dental Sealant project of the Columbia Chapter of The Links, Inc., Central Carolina Community Foundation’s Teacher/Student Incentive project, the Children’s Trust Fund of South Carolina, South Carolina Arts Commission’s Community Discovery project, the 1972 Walk-In School project, Parent Involvement Survey of the University of South Carolina’s Family in Society Institute, Keenan High School’s Project G.O.A.L., and proposal writer for the Ford Foundation’s Drop-out Prevention grant. She was also a published writer, having written and co-authored several articles for social work and medical journals, including the Journal of Education and Psychological Consultation, and the Arizona Geriatrics Society Journal.
Alice served on several boards and councils, including the Sisters of Charity Foundation, the Columbia Urban League, the Foster Care Review Board, the Eboni Dance Theatre, the Council on Child Abuse, the Abuse Recovery Board, and LRADAC. Alice established the William F. O’Neal Guild at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and co-founded the Columbia Urban League and the Poinsettia Cotillion with her husband Tony. Alice was also the recipient of numerous awards for her distinct contributions to her community, including the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Social Worker of the Year Award; the South Carolina Association of Social Workers School Social Worker of the Year Award; the Southern School Social Worker Council’s School Social Worker of the Year Award; the Columbia Urban League’s John H. Whiteman Award; the Congaree Girl Scouts Council’s Women of Distinction Award; the Diversity in Leadership Award from the Sisters of Charity Foundation; and South Carolina’s highest civilian award, The Order of the Palmetto. Alice traveled the world and loved to read and work crossword puzzles.
Alice was a woman of great faith and a dedicated parishioner of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Through the years, she served as a lector and chalice bearer and was a member of the Vestry and choir. She was an avid Bridge player and enjoyed hosting bridge parties. She was a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Columbia Chapter of The Links, Inc., the National Smart Set, Inc., an associate member of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., and was a beloved charter member of the Columbia Chapter of Moles, Inc. Alice is survived by her children, Brian W. (Monica) Hurley, Kelly L. Hurley, and Michelle H. (George) Johnson; her sister, F. Dianne Wyche; five grandchildren, Chelsea H. (Xavier) Hansbro, Johnanthony and Aliece Hurley, and Rachel and Ryann Johnson; two great-grandchildren, Zion and Ella Grace Hansbro; her first cousin, Kellene Underdown Bruce; and a host of other relatives and close friends.
So deeply saddened by the death of Mrs Hurley. My deepest condolences to the family.
We worked and played together for many years. What great times we had! Rest in peace, my friend.
The Arvelo family offers our sincerest condolences. Mrs. Hurley shall always be regarded as a pillar of our community. She indeed promulgated the highest ideals of finer womanhood, leadership and service to humanity. Mat the peace of The Lord be with you as you stand in this moment of sadness. The memories of her beautiful life will replenish you with joy.
Dr. Maria Arvelo Lumpkin (Michael, Doris, Colenda, Miguel)
Michelle and George,
Selby and I send our deepest sympathy. You mom was an amazing inspiration to so many. To God be the glory for a beautiful life well lived. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
With love,
The Artis Family
Mrs. Hurley was an inspiration, I will miss her. I still hear her telling me that Pink was only a mixture of Red and white. My prayers are with the family.
Dear family and friends,
Alice was a great friend who worked tirelessly for all people who were in need . She was an educator for all of us on how to live in a difficult world. She solved problems, sought compromises, established groups to further good works, and mediated when there were disagreements. She took people from the cradle to the grave and made life better for them.
I respected her will and mind but I loved her heart and soul. The last time I saw her was at cardiac rehab. Her Beauty and wit were on display and she lifted our spirits even doing the hard work. I am so fortunate to have known and loved her. Melanie Webb
Alice was truly a wonderful friend and neighbor with a kind spirit and infectious smile.
It is a comfort to know when someone dies in faith that being absent in the body is to be present with the Lord.
The Bible says Blessed, are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
I ask God to comfort your hearts and give you strength during this time.
Alice will surely be missed and I am grateful to have had her as a loving friend.
My sincere condolences to the Hurley, Johnson & Wyche families.
Alice was such a sweet and caring spirit and I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked closely with her in several community & civic organizations. Praying for your peace and comfort and may the wonderful memories of your Mom, Grandmother & Sister help to sustain you in the days ahead. Alice will be missed. May she Rest In Peace and Power.
To the Hurley family in memory of a wonderful and great lady! She will be missed I first knew Alice from the social work community of angels, then the Delta sister hood, and then just friends. Such a great lady!. Always a pleasure to see her because she always had a smile and word of encouragement. I will truly regret the missed opportunities and invitations to have lunch or just come by and chat. She will truly be missed, just thought we had more time.
Michelle I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. You and your family are in my prayers for God’s continued Blessings for peace and understanding.
Dearest Kelly, my condolences go out to you and your family with all the love in my heart. I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting your Mom but I know she was a women of Faith, Love & Kindness because her spirt resides in you. I believe your Mom put all she had in you. Never forget to to always remember, she may be gone in spirit but she will forever walk with you. Continue to stand strong in her name. Her love for you and your family will live on… Believe it!!
Michelle, Kelly, Brian, and family, Aunt Alice was the standard of driven excellence and passion in motion. She will be missed by us all, and the world will absolutely miss her. Sending love.
Brian, Kelly, Michelle: Mrs. Hurley was always class personified! As family & friends continue to reflect upon such a remarkable legacy….I am blessed to say that the 🌎 is a better place because of Sister Hurley!
My condolences to the Hurley family on the loss of your mother. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
My condolences, prayers and sympathy go out to the family and friends of this amazing woman. Rest In Peace and May God’s grace and comfort be with her family.
Farewell my beautiful sister two times over. Thank you for the foresight to charter the Columbia Moles. Your contributions to us and the community are appreciated. We will continue to “Speak Your Name”
Mole Jodi Gallman
19th National Moles President.
Dear Michelle and family,
My deepest sympathies to you all. I remember how beautiful and accomplished your mom was and the best hostess at your Lake Murray home. May you all find solace in your memories and God’s peace as you continue on without her.
Mrs. Hurley left an incredible mark on this place before leaving it to be with Mr. Hurley and those who went before her. Her accomplishments were incredible and the legacy she leaves is proven on a daily basis by the way her children and their children live their lives. My sincerest condolences to Kelly, Brian, Michelle and all the grandchildren. Rest in heavenly peace, Mrs. Hurley.
My deepest condolences to Michelle and family in the loss of your mother, Mrs. Alice Hurley. May her works speak for her in everything she contributed to social work. May she rest in the arms of our Master.
My condolences and continued prayers are extended to the Hurley and Wyche family.
Alice was the “big sister. Having known Dianne since elementary school, Alice became my guide in thought, fashion, personality and love. She made an impact in my life as well as others who received her as their “big sister”.
Our world is a better place because of her presence.
Dear Sister, rest in heavenly peace.
Alice was a lively, intelligent, and compassionate women.
Our sincere condolences to the family. We pray that God will grant you peace and comfort during this time. May you forever hold the loving memories of her in your heart.
To the Hurley family and my Sistah Friend, F. Dianne Wyche. Please accept our heart felt condolences and love in the loss of Alice Wyche Hurley. Through my friendship with her sister Dianne, Alice was like the big sister I never had. I honored her words of wisdom and will always keep her smile etched in my heart.
Johnny and I walk this journey with you.
Reverend Dr.Johnny R. Johnson and Sonja Hunt Johnson
Michelle, my deepest sympathy to you and your family on the loss of your mother. Although I didn’t know her, it is obvious she was a real force and had a tremendous impact in her many activities, service, and contributions to the community, as well as her love of her family. I know her love and guidance will always live in your hearts and memories of her.
Walker and I offer our deepest sympathies to the Hurley and Johnson families. My mother considered Alice to be a close friend. They worked closely together in several community organizations. Certainly she will be remembered for her leadership in social activities as well as community projects. My your beautiful memories of her sustain you as time goes on.
I’m so sorry in hearing of the loss of your mother!!!! Sending prayers and condolences to you and your family!!!! Asking God to give you the strength and peace you’ll need during this time!!!!💖🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Michelle, Kelli, and Brian we are sadden to hear of the passing of your mother. She was a beautiful woman with a smile that glowed. We will keep your family in our prayers.
There is a tender touch of the Lord for us in times of loss. It’s a touch that gently wipes our tears and bring comfort in sorrow.
Mrs. Alice and Mr. Tony was truly a blessing to my family. My Mother (Eula Mae) and Uncle Earl appreciated their kindness and sincere concerns.
Blessings!
Alice Hurley accomplishments were not only professional but as a human being she was one of the most kind and genuine individuals I have ever had the honor to call friend. The most difficult time in my life was the loss of my mother, Effue Bridgett and Alice’s close friend. I will always feel tremendously grateful and blessed to have had Alice’s a and her late husband’s emotional support and assistance even as she also grieved for the loss of her dear friend. I know that her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and relatives will miss her, as well as all those who knew and loved her. God has called home a beautiful spirit and U know her spirit soared to the heavens like a feather on the breath of God.
My deepest condolences are extended to the loved ones of Ms. Hurley. She was, without doubt, one of the leaders in the social work community in South Carolina. She made a tremendous impact on the development and professionalization of the social work field in SC, especially in the area of school social work.
Not only was Alice a consummate professional, but she was also a lady of exemplary grace and dignity. All who knew her were blessed by the impact she had on their lives. Although she will be greatly missed, her legacy will live on in the memories of those she knew and through the many accomplishments she achieved.
It was my great pleasure to work with Alice in Richland One where we soon became lifelong friends. Alice set the example for all of us and we appreciated and loved her.
Your memories of Alice will sustain you as you have so many wonderful examples of her life well-lived. Sincerest sympathy to the family.
Brian, Kelly, Michelle, Mrs. Hurley was one of the kindest people I have ever met. Her warmth and smiling spirit made me feel happy every time I was around her. You three are amazing people, I feel lucky to know you and confident you will carry on her love as you already do.
To the Hurley Family, I was truly sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. I had the pleasure of working with and for your Father and Mother. They were very good to me and always treated me with great respect. I know that your hearts are heavy but God is the winner because he has received two outstanding angels. I shall pray for your Family and ask God to heal your hearts. I know one thing she was one beautiful lady and will be missed by all that knew her. Thank you for that opportunity.
My Condolences to The Hurley, The Hansbro, The Johnson, and The Wyche Families. I know this time is very Difficult!
Alice was the perfect explanation of a Lady, very beautiful, intelligent, calm, and understanding in every way. Every time I Visited Or saw Alice,it’s always Pleasent, she was a dear friend.
We were Palmerites together, graduating from Palmer Memorial Institute, Sedalia, North Carolina.
To the families, the road ahead is gonna be a little bumpy for a while and you may even wonder “why now”. Just remember the beautiful thoughts, the laughter, and the sayings. Hopefully that will get you through.
You have my deepest sympathy. So sorry to hear of your loss. May God keep you in His care
Brian, Kelly & Michelle, my prayers and thoughts are with each of you during this time. Your mother, my Soror was a beautiful soul, a woman with compassion and a love for others. It was my privilege to work with her on many occasions. I will forever remember her when she would enter a room, her sweet spirit was always a glow around her. She was truly a lady! Thank you for sharing her with others. My God give you comfort during this time and may the Legacy she has left each of you guide you in the coming day.
My deepest condolences to Brian, Kelly, and Michelle. Alice had a major impact on me professionally and personally. She has been my social work field instructor, coworker, supervisor, and most importantly a friend. I have always had the highest respect for Alice. A lot of people are smart but few people have wisdom like Alice.
Brian, Kelly, and Michelle, my sincere condolences for the loss of my beloved Soror Mrs. Hurley. As a child, I will never forget her carefree spirit and the beautiful manner in which she carried herself. I smile just thinking about the joy she brought to us all during our outings at Lake Murray. May the Lord strengthen you and may His peace comfort you during this time of sorrow.
“As the rose blooms then withers, its beauty and fragrance remain with us forever. ” Mrs. Hurley was a jewel to our state, we are all better for having known her.
My sincere condolences to the Hurley family. She will be missed. May she RIP.
My sincere condolences to the Hurley family. We pray that God will sustain and cover you during this time of transition. May her legacy live on in the great memories she created in the many lives that she touched. Well done thy good and faithful servant!
Sincerest condolences to the Manigault-Hurley and Johnson families during the transition of Mrs. Alice W. Hurley. We pray that God will give all of you peace that surpasses understanding as you look towards Heaven for strength. Dr. Warren D. and Mrs. Dawana Robinson.
Oh Mrs Hurley. We will miss you! May God give your children the strength and courage to carry on. Thanks for being our neighbor.
You were truly a joy to work with and you were always so pleasant. My prayers are with the Hurley Family during this time.
My sincere condolences to the Hurley family. Ms. Alice was my sister’s neighbor and, at the end of her life, my mom’s good friend.
Rest in the loving arms of Jesus Ms. Alice you’ve done well!
Mrs. Hurley was a true trailblazer with a kind spirt for all to emulate. She inspired me to be better and to seek greatness as a young teenager when I would walked pass the funeral home. Mrs. Hurley would greet me with a simple question ” Hello young man, are you still being great and nice to people?” I replied ‘yes ma’am” and she would just smile. THANK YOU Mrs. Hurley for seeing talent and possibility in an inner city African American kid from Pinehurst Park many years ago. God has added another beautiful angel in Heaven. I send prayers and strength to the family. Ret. US Army Colonel/DOD Federal Government Director
I extend my sincere condolences to you and your family. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know.
On behalf of the Board and Staff of The C. W. Williams Community Health Center, Inc. We send our collective heartfelt sympathy to Ms. Kelly Hurley and her siblings for the loss of their Mother. Nothing can replace the loss of a loved one, but life goes on, and we have to live for those we love. Remember, while you won’t see her, she’ll walk beside you and be in your heart everyday!
Michelle and family, I send heartfelt condolences to all of you.
My daughter , Angela and you spent many childhood years together. From sleepovers to her catching her first fish with you and your parents up at your Lake Murray home. Angela as well as I got to know your entire family. Your parents loved Angela and we loved all of you. Angela especially loved your beautiful and charming mother.
The family connections run deep and our sorrow in losing such a fine lady runs equally as deep.
May God give you , Kelly and Brian the solace and calm as well as strength as you lay this lovely soul to her eternal rest.
Brian, Kelly and Michelle,
On Behalf of Robert (Goodness) Johnson and family. We send our love, heartfelt condolences and thanks in the loss of a Stellar of a Lady and Matriarch of the Manigualt-Hurley Family. Thanks for allowing me to be a long time, long distance neighbor and friend. Please know that Ms. A. Manigault, Your Dad Tony and Ms. Alice plus you. Has always given a personal touch to everyone who came across your path. Your mother has left her mark in You!! Blessing and Peace
On behalf of The Rev.Raphiel Ashford and the members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church we extend our condolences to the beloved children of Mrs. Alice Hurley, grandchildren and her beloved Sister. Mrs Hurley was an outstanding, faithful and devoted member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. She was a member of the ECW, Lay Reader, Chalice Bearer, served on the vestry and on the choir. Mrs. Hurley was truly a Virtuous Woman, she balanced her love of God and her family extremely well. Proverbs 31:21 Her children rise up and call her blessed. They pray for her and bless God that they had such a good Mother and Grandmother. We will miss Mrs. Hurley and her beautiful smiling face on Sunday mornings. We thank God for blessing us to have her in our lives for so many wonderful years.
May angels lead your dear mother to paradise where God Himself will greet her with the words,” Well done thou good and faithful servant.” I am reflecting on our last conversation just a few weeks back at St. Luke’s. Her southern charm, dignity and ladylikeness will not be replicated in our life time. May her soul rest in peace. Prayers for your strength in the days ahead.
My condolences to the family. I had the honor of meeting Mrs. Hurley as a Lady in Waiting and Debutante of the Poinsettia Cotillion. She was such a kind hearted person and touched the lives of so many young women. Praying that you find comfort in the memories you shared.
Condolences to the family May God give you strength and comfort.
RIP
Condolences and prayers to the family. Rest well Soror.
Cynthia Walters
To: Brian, Kelly & Michelle
I’m honored to share memories of a life well lived of your dear Mother & my friend & colleague!
The palm prints & footsteps of one, Alice Wyche Hurley are imprinted throughout the fabric of this city & state.
The impact has been multifaceted & lasting, professionally, in the career that she honed as a Social Worker. But beyond that, Mrs. Hurley effectuated change in each of the following areas throughout her life.
Her impact was felt in the business, artistic, social,
educational, & literary aspects of our lives and is well documented in the annals of this city’s history.
She will be remembered as a trailblazer , a socialite extradinaire & one who cared to give the very best through perpetuity.
Her level of commitment & the longevity of her service is unparalleled and beyond
reproach!.
She has now entered into His gates to receive her “Crown of Glory” as she rest from her labor from this earthly sojourn!
So sorry for your loss. I remember Mrs. Hurley from my days at St. Luke Episcopal Church. I always appreciated the loving kindness she and her husband showed to all of the young ones. They were such a beautiful couple, and were friends of my parents from way back in the day. She certainly will be missed, but we still have the hope of the resurrection that Jehovah God has promised at Revelation 21:3,4 and the promise at John 5:28,29 that we will see them again. Unti then, Sleep in Peace.
Love and prayers to the Hurley and Johnson families. My friend and co worker will truly be missed. God Bless!
My Condolences to the Hurley family. Praying for you all. May God give you strength and comfort.
Sincerely,
Sable McGee
( Daughter of the late Mr. Robert
( Big Rob) McGee)
Deepest sympathies to the Manigault-Hurley and Johnson families. May Mrs. Alice rest in peace.
A.J. Bracy, Collins Funeral Home, Inc
My condolences to the Hurley and Johnson family. Alice was a very sweet person and will be missed by all who knew her. Good night my dear Soror.
My love prayers and sympathy are expressed to the Family during this time of great lost for your beloved Mrs. Alice Hurley . She helped me get my first job after graduating College as a Social Worker, at Palmetto State Hospital in1965. Such a beautiful child of God inside and outside. May her legacy of love & service to mankind forever remain in your hearts.May the life she lived speak for her.
My sister and I were frequent participants on Manigault-Hurley Funeral Home Sunday Morning Radio Show in the middle fifties.
God will take care of each one of you.
I hope you can find comfort in the memories and celebration of Mrs. Hurley’s life. Remembering her wonderful and gentle soul will forever remain in our hearts, may God be with you and family in this difficult time.
My love and prayers to the Hurley family. She was my friend and neighbor. Such a beautiful blessed woman. She will be missed.
My love, thoughts, and prayers are with you. There are so many wonderful things to be said about the beautiful Alice Hurley. She was such a gracious lady and icon. May God be with you in comfort and peace.
My deepest condolences to the Hurley family. May God’s love, grace, and mercies surround each of you and give you comfort and peace during this difficult time. Your sister in Delta.
I have been looking for u ,and I see your gone home to be with the God,my Two son have gone home to be with the lord to ,I always love you ,you are awesome lady,I love working for you wish I could have done more.
Prayers, Condolences & Gods Strength to the family during this difficult time.Mrs. Hurley & I worked 2gether on many cases with our children through the school system & DSS! She was a loving, caring & committed social worker! Sleep in Heavenly Peace Dear Soror!
Our condolences to Hurley and Leevy’s.
Mrs. Alice Hurley will be missed in her contributions to the SCMA, INC. as a funeral director and member of District 2. Thank you for your service in the community and your family for history contributions thru the years in this funeral profession. Your families’ history is recorded in the SCMA, Inc. History book for future generations to behold. Our prayers are with you.
Calvernetta Beasley Williams, SCMA,Inc. Historian and A. P. Williams III, A. P. Williams Funeral Home, Inc.
Sincere condolences are extended to the family of Mrs. Hurley. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of bereavement. I enjoyed serving with her as one of our Delta Dears.
Be assured that this former Social Worker, Guardian and Advocate has earned her rest. Her timely emotional support to clients and physical presence have provided reassurance many. As we enter the Christmas Season others will remember the Galas she so meticulously planned. You will receive your just reward for services rendered . The SW Community and many others salute a life well lived.
My Deepest Condolences to the Entire Family of Mrs. Alice Hurley. My prayers are with each and every one of you. 🙏🏽🙏🏽 Wanda B. Hampton, PhD
To the Hurley, Johnson, extended family and acquaintances of Ms. Hurley. We offer our sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies during your love ones transitioning and your bereavement throughout this valley experience. Dorethea and Donna Harris of Lugoff, SC
So sorry for your loss..Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
My deepest condolences to the Johnson and Hurley Families. If you need me for anything don’t hesitate to call me. Love you guys always.
My deepest condolences to Michelle and family in the passing of Mrs. Hurley. Her impact on the field of social work will forever be remembered. May you find strength and comfort in the arms of Jesus.
Kelly, Brian, and Michelle please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved mother. I pray you all and the rest of the family will find peace and solace in the word of God.