Daughter of Samuel and Mary Ann Sutton Bennett, wife of William James Ransom Cantey.


"Mary Ann Eliza Cantey (nee Bennett) was, while an infant, deprived of her mother by death. She was trained by her pious father, who was a class leader in the early days of Methodism in the lower portion of Santee Circuit, and Mrs. Susan Covert, the wife of the pastor of the Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. In the 11th year of her age she joined the Methodist Episcopal Church at Lodebar, in Sumter County, in the year 1817, the Rev. Robert L. Edwards receiving her and her sister Frances at the same time.

From tributes to her memory the following is collated: She was the mother of thirteen children, five of whom preceded her to the grave. While in middle life she was left a widow with a large family of small children, and by Divine help she was enabled to guide them in the paths of righteousness.

By one who knew her intimately it is said: From early life she had suffered from dyspepsia, and it was almost a miracle that under it's depressing influence she should have exhibited invariably such sweetness of temper and serenity of character. She was as remarkable for her good sense and knowledge of the properties of life as she was for her patience and charity. There was always an expression of sweetness on her face. By the death of her husband the cares of a large family and estate were thrown suddenly upon her. She did not shrink from the responsibility, but met it bravely and earnestly.

She had been beautiful in girlhood, and a changing expression of countenance, and halo of gracefulness in movement, seemed to envelope her whole person as well as character. It was the faultlessness of her life and the serene devotion of her whole being to the service of her Master that proclaimed above everything else the greatness of her soul."

- pages 95-97, Chronicles of St. Marks Parish