In Loving Memory of Miriam Olivia McKinney Moody

January 20, 1956 – October 25, 2026

 Miriam Olivia McKinney Moody, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, will be remembered for her devotion to family, kindness, compassionate caring of people and animals, and deep love of the Lord.

 Miriam grew up in Hepzibah, Georgia before making her home in Edgefield County, as the devoted wife of Jerry Moody, for nearly 50 years, and loving mother to her children, Lee and Brandon.

 She had a remarkable gift for connecting with animals of all types, and dedicated countless hours to volunteering. She partnered with local rescue organizations and often opened her home to adopt, foster, and rehabilitate a variety of animals.

 Miriam’s volunteer work in the community extended beyond saving animals and included being able to save lives. She served as a First Responder with the Merriwether Fire Department from 1986 to 1994. She also participated in Fire Prevention Week at the local elementary school, where she helped teach children important lessons about fire safety and protecting themselves. Her commitment to serving others was recognized in 1991, when she received the Herbert Bunch Memorial Award, honoring her dedication and service to the community.

 Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will live on in the family she cherished and the community she served. Her gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will never be forgotten.

 Miriam was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne Oliver McKinney and Jo Ann Ware McKinney.

 Miriam will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Jerry Moody; her children, Lee Moody (Whitney) and Brandon Moody (Heather); her grandchildren, Landen and Sydney; and her siblings, Marie Rowland (Steve), Bobby McKinney, and Lori Smith.

 She also leaves behind her nieces and nephews, Shawn Rowland (Liz), Lisa Vaughn (Donald), Kimber Copeland (Jon), Logan Smith (Leanna), and Hannah Smith, along with six great-nieces and two great-nephews.

 A graveside service will be held at 10:00am, Monday, November 2, 2026 at Pineview Memorial Gardens, 450 W. Five Notch Rd. North Augusta, SC. The family will receive friends after the service at the graveside. 

 In Lieu of Flowers:

 In honor of Miriam’s lifelong love for animals, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to one of the following organizations that reflect the compassion and care she exuded throughout her life:

Friends of the Edgefield Animal Shelter 76 Rabbit Trail Road Edgefield, SC 29824.

Aiken Equine Rescue 532 Glenwood Drive Aiken, SC 29803.

The family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and support as they remember and celebrate Miriam’s life and the lasting difference she made in the lives of so many.