Hilma S. Traver

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Celebrating the life of
Hilma S. TraverApril 28, 1919 - March 05, 2016

SAVANNAH - Hilma Shuler Traver, affectionately known as GaGa or Gammy, died March 5, 2016 at Azalealand Nursing Home surrounded by her family and caregivers. She was born in Eutawvillle, S.C., in 1919, the daughter of Felix and Helen Shuler. She was a leader in her family, her church and her community throughout her life.

After one year at Winthrop College in Rock Hill, S.C., she married George Franklin Traver in 1938 and moved to Savannah, the city she lovingly called, “The City of Trees.” She was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church of the Ascension for more than 75 years and became the first woman elected a member of the Church Council in 1964. Her faith led her to embrace the church in virtually every capacity, including serving as president of the Lutheran Church Women, teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir and membership in both the Lottie Lang Circle and the Helen Shirk Circle.

For more than 40 years, she was a beloved member of the administration at Hancock Day School. She served as a secretary and bookkeeper for the school and was a personal assistant for Emmie Ruth Hancock, who affectionately referred to her as, “Mrs. Authority.” She was a friend to every teacher, student, staff member and parent, and everyone knew all was well as long as they could hear Hilma whistling.

She was proud of her family and heritage, often sharing her memories of her mother and father on the family’s farm, and was a member of the General Society of Mayflower Descendants. She was fervently committed to education and was a former president of the Parent Teacher Association for Chatham County public schools and presided over the local PTA for Jacob G. Smith Elementary School, Charles Ellis Elementary School and Richard Arnold Middle School.

She is survived by her twin sister, Carolina Shuler Boozer, in Spartanburg, S.C., and her children, Martha Turner Youmans (Bill); James S. Traver (Karen); George F. Traver (Victoria); grandchildren, Stephen E. Weeks, III (Ruth); Martha Elizbeth Watson; Shannon Traver Francis (Dion); James S. Traver, Jr. (Chelsea); Melanie Traver Hogan; John Clanton Traver; Anne Lathrop Traver; and 16 great grandchildren.

The funeral service will take place March 8, 2016 at 11 am at The Lutheran Church of the Ascension. The family will receive friends and loved ones from 10-11 am at the church.

Burial will follow in the Greenwich section of Bonaventure Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Stephen E. Weeks, III, James S. Traver, Jr., John Clanton Traver, William James Hogan, III, Christopher Jacob Hogan and William Turner Watson.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Rose, Judy, Sharon, Erika, Katrell, Jean, Lucy and Toni at Azalealand for their compassionate care during the past few years and especially during her final weeks. The family is also grateful for the support and services provided by Hospice Savannah.

Remembrances may be made to The Lutheran Church of the Ascension (120 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401) or Hospice Savannah (1352 Eisenhower Drive, Savannah, GA 31406).

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SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

May Jehovah, God, give you the needed strength to cope with the loss of your loved one as you await the promise found at Isaiah 65:17.

- Kelly, Pooler , Ga

May your burden be lifted a little more each day and may you find comfort in knowing that Mrs. Traver lived a long life and shared so much of herself with others.

- Virginia Johnson, Savannah, GA

My sincere condolences to the Tarver Family on the passing of your dear loved one. May Jehovah God, the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at Revelation 21:3,4(to wipe out death forever). May fond memories of Ms.Hilma linger in your hearts and bring you peace in the days to come.

- ch, Lawrenceville, GA

We are sending our condolences for the loss of your mother. It is very difficult to loose a family member. May all of your memories of your Mother and family shine through during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Jane and David Joiner

- David and Jane Joiner, Savannah, GA

A beautiful chuch service for a lovely lady. May the coming days be full of the wonderful memories she brought to your family. We will have you in our prayers.

- Becky and Buddy Martin, Savannah, Ga.

Stephen, Rose and I are so sorry for your loss. We know GaGa had a great influence for you and helped shape who you are today. Nothing can replace the loss, but the wonderful memories will last forever.

- Rose & Stanley Konter, Savannah, GA

Jimmy so sorry to hear of your mother passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. God Bless your family.

- Elizabeth Andrews, Savannah, Ga