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Ms. Mildred Barger Herschler of Landrum, S.C., passed away on March 30, 2020, succumbing to old age. She was 95.

 

Ms. Herschler was born on November 28, 1924 in Moundsville, West Virginia. Early on, she aspired to be an author. Her writing was shaped by an inborn sensibility for justice and equality for all people, which felt natural and right to her. She could not understand the fear and prejudice she witnessed among members of her community, directed toward African Americans. Growing up, she rebelled against that status quo, and throughout her life worked for change, and successfully changed peoples’ hearts and minds.

 

Mildred became the author of three books: a biography for children published in 1969 as part of Follett’s Library of American Heroes, Frederick Douglass; a critically acclaimed Civil War novel, The Walk into Morning (1993), and a young adult novel, The Darkest Corner (2000). In addition, she worked as an editor and weekly newsletter writer in NYC. She also wrote poetry.

 

Mildred was an active member of her community, well-loved by the people who knew her, the lives she touched, in all the places she lived, including, Riverhead, Long Island, NY; Huntington, Long Island, NY; and Greenwich Village, NYC.

 

Above all, Mildred was a strong, family woman. She stayed involved and cared deeply for her immediate and extended family, as well as her beloved friends. She cherished and loved meeting new people and welcoming new family members into the world until the end of her days.

 

Ms. Herschler is survived by her daughter Janeen and son Brian, four grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and dear-to-her-heart nieces, nephews, their children and grandchildren.

 

She will be missed.

 

A Celebration of Life will held at a later date.

 

Condolences may be left at www.pettyfuneralhome.com.

 

Petty Funeral Home & Crematory

Landrum, SC