Cora "Louise" Rider Shelton

Cora Louise Rider Shelton, affectionately known as Louise or Lucy to her friends and family, passed away on June 29, 2024, at NHC Healthcare in Greenville, SC. Born to the late Roland Rider and Cora Reid Rider, who died during Louise's birth, she was lovingly raised by her mother Willie Mae Reid Rider, whose memory she cherished throughout her life.

Louise's journey was marked by the love and bonds she shared with her family, including her late stepbrother Charles W. Eppes Sr. (Ruth W. Eppes), her nephew Richard D. Eppes (Ann Eppes), and her foster siblings Marie McDowell, Sue Bailey, and Steve Cross (Bodie). She was a cherished godmother to Wade (Vicki), Michael (Linda), Mitchell, Earl (Karen), Daniel (Karen), Faye, and Robby (Candy), all of whom felt the warmth of her nurturing spirit.

Louise is preceded in death by her father Roland Rider, her biological mother Cora Reid Rider, her mother Willie Mae Reid Rider, her stepbrother Charles W. Eppes Sr., and her nephew Charles Eppes. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will be held close to the hearts of her family, godchildren, and friends.

Louise's artistic talents shone brightly as a color artist at Hudson Studios in Greenville, SC. Her skillful hands brought vibrancy to black and white photographs with colored oil paints, capturing the essence of countless cherished memories. Her creativity extended beyond her professional life as she beautifully arranged flowers for weddings and funerals, adding a touch of grace to every occasion.

Louise's passion for life was evident in her many interests. An avid gardener, she took pride in the flowers and flowering bushes that adorned her yard, creating a personal oasis that brought her immense joy. Her culinary skills were no secret to those who knew her; she loved experimenting with new recipes and delighted in sharing her delicious creations with loved ones. Her home was a hub of warmth and hospitality, reflecting her loving and thoughtful nature.

Her artistic flair was not limited to her work; Louise found solace and joy in making crafts, coloring in her adult coloring books, and sharing these treasures with friends and family. She also had a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life, such as canning vegetables, freezing fresh corn, and caring for her beloved dogs and cats over the years.

Travel held a special place in Louise's heart, with Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN, being her favorite mountain retreats. These trips were not just about the destinations but the cherished memories made with those she held dear.

Louise's spirited personality was a beacon of light in the lives of those she touched. She was a woman of strength, resilience, and unwavering love. Her legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and the countless moments of beauty she created and shared.

As we bid farewell to Louise, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and passion. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the flowers she so lovingly tended will bloom year after year—a testament to her enduring spirit.

In honoring Louise's life, we remember a woman whose presence was a gift to all who knew her. Her story does not end with her passing but continues in the lives she touched, the beauty she created, and the love she shared so freely. Louise's spirit, like the gardens she tended, will remain vibrant and full of life in our hearts forever.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 8, at 3 PM, at Mountain View Memorial Park. A viewing will be held at 1-2 PM at the Cremation Society of SC - Westville Funerals.