Loretta G. Sercy

Loretta Gardner Sercy, 80, of Columbia, departed this earthly life on July 30, 2024. She was born on January 16, 1944, in Columbia, to Al Gardner and Julia Kaiser Gardner. Loretta was a product of Richland School District One schools, graduating from the old Columbia High School, Class of 1962. Following high school, she received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of South Carolina concentrating on early childhood education. Loretta spent many years teaching at Richland District I and Lexington District I, receiving multiple ‘teacher of the year’ awards during her tenure. She also taught at Wildwood Elementary School, now known as Cardinal Newman. Loretta dearly loved her students and remained in contact with many of them. Loretta approached religion as yet another learning and teaching experience. She was a member of Incarnation Lutheran Church from childhood. Loretta also attended Sunday School at Northeast United Methodist Church. Loretta was best known to be an outgoing, caring and fun-loving person, always making new friendships and tending well to friendships of old. Loretta never met a stranger. Survivors include her loving husband of 55 years, Wray Sercy; and her son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Amy Sercy of Charleston. A memorial service will be held at Incarnation Lutheran Church on Monday, August 12th at 3:30pm. The Reverend Emily Willhide will officiate. The family will receive friends in the church parlor immediately following the service to celebrate Loretta’s life and reflect on a life well lived. In remembrance, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the Incarnation Lutheran Church - Children’s Education Program, Columbia SC.