Ethel S. Wilcox

On Monday, January 1, 2024, God in His infinite wisdom, called Ethel S. Wilcox from  her earthly labor to receive her heavenly reward.

Ethel was born Ethel Stanola Howe on January 3, 1938 in Baltimore, MD to Mary and Paul Sims. Ethel grew up in Harlem, New York as the only child. She received her education in the public school system of  New York  City.

Ethel married Ellis Wilcox, Jr. on October 18, 1963 in New York City. The love of this union led to 2 children, Lamont S. Wilcox and Crystal Denise Wilcox Holman.

She was passionate about community, friendships, and family. As ordained ministers, Ethel and Ellis were founding members of Lean on Me Agape Ministry. The ministry served the community by feeding the less fortunate and with the help of grants and tithes provided assistance with housing and utilities in the South Jersey area.

Ethel committed herself to service and pursued a career as a social worker helping children impacted by physical and sexual abuse in Dorchester County, South Carolina. She was also a foster care parent, opening her home to those in need. While in New Jersey, she also served as a social worker at Mizpah Inland Human Services, a non-profit community organization committed to making positive changes in the community that it serves.

She was a devoted mother to her children and all that she served. Ethel loved reading, studying the Bible, playing the piano, singing, and watching her favorite television shows, The Lincoln Lawyer and Blacklist. Most remember her as a vibrant spirit with a smile that lit up the room. She had fond memories of the 20 years that her husband was in the Navy, which allowed her to live in and experience life in such places as Virginia, Scotland, Louisiana, and South Carolina.  Places where in many cases, she made life-long friends.

Ethel was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star whose purposes are the cultivation of charitable works and fraternal practices to comfort, protect, and aid each other through life's journey.

She was preceded in death by her mother Mary Howe Sims and her father Paul Sims. She is survived by her husband Ellis Wilcox, Jr. of Charlotte, NC, children Lamont S. Wilcox of Miami, FL and Crystal Wilcox Holman (Peter) of Charlotte, NC, her grandchildren Crystal Seay (Demarcus) of Summerville, SC, Danielle Wilcox of Charleston, SC, godson Derick Washington of Charlotte, NC, sister-in-law Kimmy Wilcox of Homestead, FL, brother-in-law Russell Williams(Gloria) of Savannah, great grandchildren Malik Seay and Malaya Seay of Summerville, SC.

Ethel was a mother of many and a friend to all that crossed her path. Ethel embodied love, faith, and service.