September 12, 2025

Community Mourns the Loss of Nancy Lee Tate Hellams

Pendleton, SC, September 12, 2025

News Summary

Nancy Lee Tate Hellams, a lifelong Pendleton resident and dedicated community leader, has passed away at the age of 75. Known for her significant contributions to education and community service, Nancy was a founder of Camp Cripple Creek and a respected volunteer. Her memorial service will be held at the Pendleton Methodist Church, where friends and family are invited to honor her legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to local charities reflecting her commitment to community welfare.

Pendleton, SC

Nancy Lee Tate Hellams, a profound community leader and educator, passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025. She was a lifelong resident of Pendleton, SC, and was known for her extensive contributions to the community and her dedication to education.

Nancy was born in Greenwood, SC, and grew up in Pendleton and Scottsboro, Alabama. She was the daughter of the late Melvin Greyson Tate SR and Esther Hammett Tate and was a stepdaughter to the late Mary Jim Horton Tate. She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, James Williams Hellams Sr., her sister Betty Rush Tate DeLorme, and her brother Melvin Greyson Tate Jr. Nancy is survived by her two children, Susann Elizabeth Hellams Griffin and James Williams Hellams Jr., along with three grandchildren: Tate Shields Griffin, James Campbell Hellams, and Mary Britton Hellams. She also leaves behind her sister, Joan Grayson Tate Adams; stepsister Mary Elizabeth Horton Rasor; stepbrother Horace “Hoss” P Horton; and several nieces and nephews.

Nancy’s educational background is notable; she graduated from Jacksonville State University in 1970 and earned a Master’s Degree in Recreation and Park Administration from Clemson University in 1975. Her career in education began in the Pendleton school system where she taught before taking on the role of Director of the Anderson County Adult Activity Center. In 1978, she married James Williams Hellams Sr. and went on to operate Cripple Creek Crafts and co-own a children’s clothing shop called Beary Classy.

In the early 1980s, she founded and directed Camp Cripple Creek, a day camp for preschool boys that took place in her backyard. A noted community volunteer, she referred to herself as a “Self Appointed Pendleton Promoter” (SAPP), highlighting her commitment to enhancing community life. Throughout her life, Nancy was actively involved in a variety of organizations and volunteer activities, earning her respect and recognition for her service.

A memorial service honoring her life will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Pendleton Methodist Church, located at 217 Broad Street, Pendleton, SC 29670. Following the memorial service, family and friends are invited to gather and pay their respects in a more personal setting.

In lieu of flowers, Nancy’s family has requested that memorial tributes be made as charitable donations to “Friends of the Park,” Pendleton Methodist Church, or Hospice of the Upstate, reflecting her lifelong dedication to serving the community she cherished.

Key Contributions

Leader in the Pendleton community through various volunteer roles
Educator with a long career in teaching and adult activities
Founder and director of the Camp Cripple Creek day camp
Promoter of local events and initiatives through her self-appointed role

Community Reaction

The Pendleton community has expressed its deep sorrow at the loss of Nancy Hellams, highlighting her enthusiasm and commitment to improving the lives of those around her. Many remember her warmth and passion for education and community service.

FAQ Section

What was Nancy Lee Tate Hellams known for?

Nancy was known for her leadership in the Pendleton community, her dedication to education, and her extensive volunteer work.

When and where will the memorial service take place?

The memorial service will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Pendleton Methodist Church.

What charitable organizations can donations be made to in her honor?

Donations can be made to “Friends of the Park,” Pendleton Methodist Church, or Hospice of the Upstate.

Summary of Nancy Lee Tate Hellams’ Life

Feature	Detail
Date of Passing	September 11, 2025
Place of Residence	Pendleton, SC
Educational Qualifications	BA from Jacksonville State University, Master’s from Clemson University
Career Highlights	Director of the Anderson County Adult Activity Center, Educator
Community Involvement	Founder of Camp Cripple Creek, Various voluntary initiatives
Survivors	Two children, three grandchildren, sister and other family