Blanche Gilstrap Creswell

Blanche Gilstrap Creswell, a beloved mother, grandmother, and community member, passed away peacefully in her hometown of Greenville, SC, on August 2, 2023. Born on January 13, 1930, to Ephraim McFall Gilstrap and Mary Lee Wood Gilstrap, Blanche was a lifelong resident of Greenville, where she touched countless lives through her work in education and her active involvement in her church.

Blanche was a proud graduate of Westville High School. She furthered her education at Lander College, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree, and later at Furman University, where she completed her Master's Degree. Her passion for education led her to a fulfilling 35-year career with the school district of Greenville County. As a teacher and area curriculum consultant, she was instrumental in shaping the minds of future generations.

She was predeceased by her loving husband, Thomas W. Creswell, Sr., her parents, Ephraim and Mary Gilstrap, and her brothers, George, Charles, and Walther Gilstrap, along with their wives, Louise, Dot, and Lou Gilstrap. Blanche is survived by her daughter, Denise Brown, and son-in-law, Paul Brown; her son, Wilson Creswell, and daughter-in-law, Shanna Creswell. She was a cherished grandmother to Jennifer Brown, Emily Brown Gibson, and her husband, Steven Gibson. Blanche also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly.

Blanche was a woman of many interests. She was a longtime member of Berea Friendship United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir for many years, taught Sunday School, and helped start the annual church bazaar. She was also a frequent visitor to Ocean Lakes in Myrtle Beach, where she loved to spend time. A talented quilter and seamstress, Blanche found joy in creating beautiful pieces for her family and friends. She was an avid reader, with a particular fondness for books about the beach.

Those who knew Blanche will remember her as a loving, faith-filled, and spirited woman. Her unwavering faith was a testament to her character, and her spirit was infectious to those around her. She was a beacon of light in her community, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a kind word. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In the words of one of her favorite hymns, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Blanche Gilstrap Creswell lived a life of service, love, and faith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to thank Blanche's dear friend, Jan Smith and home caregivers, Quinn Holmes and Whitney Reeder for the loving care they provided during her last years. The family would also like to thank Berea Fire Department for all their help over the years.

Memorials may be made to Berea Friendship UMC, 8001 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29617