Henrietta "Retta" M. Lively

Mrs. Henrietta Marro Lively, 82, known lovingly to family and friends as "Retta", passed away on July 30, 2026 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Retta was born on July 18, 1944 in Horry County and lived a long, meaningful life marked by devotion to her family, her work, her faith, and the many people whose lives she touched with her gentle spirit. 

Retta was born the daughter of the late Henry Frank and Lillian Elwood Smith Marro. Retta was preceded in death by her husband Leland "Len" Lively. This loss was deeply felt throughout her life, yet she carried herself with grace, strength, and quiet dignity. Her memory will remain a source of comfort to those who loved her and were blessed to know her.

She is survived by her daughter Dannetta Smith Todd (Michael Cochran),grandchildren, Candice Nichole Todd, Alexis Danielle Todd (Shawn Edward Williams) and Donald "KJ" Todd; great-grandchildren Jaylyn Nykole Todd, Abrianna Channelle Sinclair, Miley Nichole Weaver and Ayden Kayde Todd and her brother Frank Henry Marro Jr. and several nieces and nephews. Special  Retta cherished her family deeply, and her love for them was evident in the care, encouragement, and kindness she gave throughout her life.

Retta devoted many years to her work as an optician with 25 years of service before retiring. After retirement she went back to work and retired a second time from Plantation Resorts of Surfside. Retta was respected by all who knew her professionally. She approached her work with dedication and reliability, and she was known for the same steady and thoughtful manner in every part of her life. Her strong work ethic and dependable nature were among the many qualities that earned her the respect of coworkers and friends alike.

Outside of work, Retta found great happiness in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. She enjoyed spending time with her loyal companions Bosco and Biscuit. Playing a game of POGO on the computer.   She was a  faithful member of Socastee United Methodist Church where she previously served as a secretary for the church. Retta found strength and comfort in her faith.  Her home and her heart were always open, and she created a warm and welcoming presence wherever she went.

Those who knew Retta will remember her as loving, kind, and friendly. She had a way of making others feel valued and cared for, and her presence brought comfort and joy to many. Her life was a reflection of compassion, devotion, and steadfast love. She will be remembered not only for the roles she filled as a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, Aunt and friend, but also for the example she set through the way she lived each day.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her caregivers; Danny (Sharon) Smith and to Heavenly Helpers of Myrtle Beach; Yana Mintz, Zackery Mintz, Teresa Clontz McWhirt, Agape hospice, Ronda Joiner and Beth Tucker.  Their kindness and loving devotion was a great help to the family during their time of need. 

A visitation for family and friends will be held Wednesday, August 5th 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at McMillan Small Funeral Home, 910 67th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572.

Funeral services, officiated by Rev. Thomas Pietila,  will be at 11:00 AM, Thursday, August 6th, 2026, at Socastee United Methodist Church, 5575 Dick Pond Road, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Mrs. Retta's memory to Heavenly Helpers of Myrtle Beach, 101 Cimerron Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588.

Online condolences may be left at www.mcmillansmallfuneralhome.com

McMillan Small funeral home of Myrtle Beach is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 449-3396.

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