Claire Wood Mayo

Claire Wood Mayo, affectionately known as “Mema,” passed away on August 11, 2026, at the age of 85, in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 31, 1941, in Edgefield, South Carolina, to the late William and Lura Wood. Claire grew up in Edgefield and spent most of her life in Cayce, South Carolina, where she built a life centered around family, faith, friendship, and caring for others.

In 1961, Claire married the love of her life, Ted H. Mayo. Together they built a loving family and raised their two children, Tena and Tony. Claire and Ted shared a devoted marriage until his passing.

Claire began her working life as a cosmetologist before discovering a calling that would become one of her greatest legacies: caring for children. She eventually opened and operated her own childcare center, Claire's Corner Child Care Center, where she lovingly cared for and taught generations of children. She took great pride in preparing her young students for school and, more importantly, in giving them a safe, loving place to learn and grow. Her influence reached far beyond the walls of her childcare center, and she made a lasting difference in the lives of countless children and families.

Claire was also an active and dedicated member of her community. She was involved with the Edenwood Garden Club, serving several times as president, and was an active member of the Cayce-West Columbia Women’s Club, participating in numerous projects and activities. Her love of gardening was evident in both her community involvement and the joy she found in tending to her own garden.

Faith was an important part of Claire’s life. She was an active participant at State Street Baptist Church, where she faithfully attended Sunday School and taught Mission Friends for many years. Even when her health eventually prevented her from attending regularly, her faith remained an important part of who she was.

She is survived by her daughter, Tena (Rick), her grandchildren, David (Nicole); Ryan, Jeremy, Justin, Charlie, Jeff, and Taylor; and her great-grandchildren, Rose and Alex. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, whom she loved and cared for as though they were her own children.

In addition to her beloved husband, Ted, and her son, Tony, Claire was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lura Wood, her brother, W.C. Wood, and her sister, Elizabeth Foster (Melvin).

Claire leaves behind a legacy of love that cannot be measured simply by the years she lived, but by the lives she touched. She made a difference in so many children’s lives, and the love she gave so freely will continue through her family, her friends, and the many people who were fortunate enough to know her.

A visitation will be held at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home at 200 State St. West Columbia, SC 29169 on Friday, August 14 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. A memorial service will be held at State Street Baptist Church, time will be announced soon. A burial at Southland Memorial Gardens will follow the conclusion of the memorial service.