On January 30, 2019, after seventy-three years proved to be long enough for her kindness and generosity to be felt, she was called home to be with the Lord. Alethia Ann Tisdale Pressley was born January 21, 1946 to the late James and Lorine Tisdale. Her sweet disposition was apparent upon introduction. Alethia was known for always lending a helping hand to others. Often sharing the last of what she had to give.

Growing up in the Millwood community enabled Alethia to be reared along with her siblings and cousins. At a young age, Alethia's relationship with God was manifested through her membership in St. Paul United Methodist Church. Throughout her travels, she remained in the church. She was later baptized into Christ, solidifying her relationship with God at The Church of Christ in Conway, SC. Alethia worked diligently in her church. In addition to Sunday services, she was a faithful participant in Bible Study and various church ministries. She frequently extend invitations to friends and family to fellowship with her.

After graduating from St. Mark High School, Alethia moved to New York City and then later to Rochester, NY. During her time in Rochester she worked as an Administrator for a large furniture company and Rochester Electric and Gas.

In 1977 the warm temperatures of Phoenix, AZ beckoned her to leave the frigid temperatures of Rochester, NY. While in Phoenix, Alethia worked for several years as an Administrator in the Phoenix school district. Once she moved back to South Carolina, she became employed by Wellman Industries in Johnsonville, SC. Fitting for someone with such a giving and caring spirit, she worked for many years as a home health care provider. Through her work she formed lifelong relationships with her patients and their families.

Biological ties did not define Alethia's maternal bond with her six sons. After reconnecting and marrying her high school sweetheart, the late George Epps Pressley, she made a loving home for their six sons, Tyrie (Tina), Lature, Denetric (deceased), George Von (Shakiba), Eric and Darren. They reared the boys in a loving home that was open to the boys' friends. Over the years, she served as a foster parent to many. Her home remained open to children with a hot meal and a place to stay, including her current foster son, Jonathan. Her maternal bonds grew with her relationships with her grandchildren, Tyra, Lacy, Destiny, Desmond, Tyrese, Dominique, Kaden, and Malik.

To have a friend, one must be a friend. Alethia's first friendships were shared with her siblings, especially her three sisters, Alberta (deceased); Elizabeth (Robert), Varnville, SC; and Margaret, Columbia, SC. Their strong sisterly bond was only strengthened by her friendship and unique relationship with each of them. Having three older brothers, James, Jr (Barbara)(deceased), Aldavis (deceased) and Heyward (Lillie), Atlanta, GA helped her to be a reliable big sister to her younger brothers, Sherman (Ella)(deceased); Otis, Rochester, NY; Marvin (Cecelia) Kingstree, SC; and Hilton (deceased). She shared a close bond with her aunt Lilia Mae Swails.

Always one to celebrate her friends and family, her laughter and smile was often the center of family gatherings. To her nieces and nephews, she was reliable, fun-loving and caring with the best advice.

Her pleasant demeanor was experienced by all who encountered her. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds. Her sudden departure leaves a void in our lives and our hearts that we will never be filled.