Mary Rebekah Garvin Thompson was born April 24, 1914 in Beaufort County, South Carolina to Judge Johnnie R. and Carolyn Crosby Garvin. She is a direct descendant of Alexander Hamilton. Mary’s husband, Herman Charles Thompson is deceased.
Mary is a retired Civil Service Procurement Officer who went on working as a substitute teacher for 3 years. She is a member of “Who’s Who” in American Junior Colleges having received several awards in journalism as copy editor and reporter on college campus newspapers. As a student Mary was recognized with high honors at junior college graduation for outstanding merit and accomplishments.
Mary holds many honors such as Life Member of the Charleston Rifle Club Women’s Auxiliary and Member of the Fleet Reserve Association for 18 years. She served 27 years as manager and president of Women’s Southeastern Tournament, served as Certified Coach and Instructor for Charleston JBA, President of Charleston JBA for seven years, initiated the scholarship program for graduating seniors through the AJBC and BPAA. She served as President of the South Carolina Junior Bowling Association as well.
Mary has been a member of the Charleston WBA for approximately 47 years where she is a Life Member and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. On that board she has served as President, Vice President and Director. Mary was on the original nominating committee for forming the South Carolina Women’s Bowling Association. She was also a director on the state board for five years and served as Historian. Mary has also represented the state association in the WIBC Senior Tournament. She has been an active supporter for the Bowler’s Victory Legion and has received several citations from the Veteran’s Hospital for her (volunteer) work with the bowling program.
Mary is a dedicated and loyal bowler, health permitting, and she continues to promote the game of bowling. This fine lady has touched many women bowlers. Her loyalty and love for the game cannot be adequately expressed in words alone. Her “records” speak for themselves, and qualify her for this honor, into the South Carolina Women’s Bowling Association Hall of Fame.
Congratulations Mary, we welcome you.
