Malinda J. Hershberger

Malinda J. Hershberger, 81, formerly of Abbeville, SC, died peacefully on Tuesday, November 3, 2015 at the Hospice House in Greenwood. She was born in Lynnhaven, VA to the late Jonas and Katie W. Yoder Hershberger. Preceding her in death were her parents, named above, four brothers, Noah, Simon, William, and Elmer. Also two sisters, Sarah and Amanda, and one niece, Faith Elaine, daughter of Elmer and Barbara Hershberger. She is survived by, one aunt, Katie Stoll, two sisters, Fannie (Noah) Weaver of Carrollton, GA, Esther (the late Menno) Kuhns of Arthur, IL; one sister-in-law, Barbara (Joas) Kiline; twenty-two nieces and nephews Malinda was one who thrived on challenges. She had lots of energy to expend and sought for things that would make a difference in people's lives. Working for Yoder Dairies in Kempsville, she learned the art of book keeping. Later, she launched out in mission work under AMA (Amish Mennnonite Aid) in El Salvador. Her goals were to establish a relationship with the ladies of the village, teaching them preservation of food, and baking. She helped them establish a bakery that kept on producing bread many years after she terminated there. After becoming quite fluent in Spanish, she had the joy of teaching Bible classes to the children of the village. After Uncle Jake Hershberger was so suddenly snatched from his busy life as Sec. of AMA, she helped Uncle Andy Hershberger take on the work of keeping AMA afloat. A niece, Faith Elaine Hershberger, claimed much of her time in caring for her while at the hospital in Atlanta, fighting to live until she was a year old. Needing another challenge, she took on a restaurant, The Mennonite Maid, in Anderson. Later, she tackled the Dutch Oven in Abbeville and remained there till she retired. She was widely known for serving delicious meals. After retiring, she moved to Augusta, GA and lived there for 12 years. She was very active in the work of WHOLE LIFE MINISTRIES, reaching out to people from many walks of life. Fishing was her greatest hobby. She enjoyed taking her friends with her. Another place that became very special to her was her daily trips to Ryan's where she knew she could get a square meal, sometimes at a reduced cost. Smile. We do appreciate all the acts of love that have been shown to us as a family in this difficult time. The family will receive friends from 12:00Noon to 2:30PM Friday, November 6, 2015 at Whispering Pines Mennonite Church, 7085 Hwy. 20, Honea Path, SC 29654. Funeral services will begin at 3:00PM in the church. Burial will follow in church cemetery. The families are at their respective homes. Memorial contributions, in memory of Malinda, may be sent to the Whole Life Ministries, 2621 Washington Road, Augusta, GA 30904. A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com