With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Hattie Plowden, 85, of Lane, SC, who passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025.

Life Reflections

Born on November 27, 1939, Mother Hattie Plowden was the cherished daughter of the late Jerry Woods Sr. and Susan Felder Woods. From a young age, she was known for her warmth, compassion, and strong sense of family—values deeply rooted in faith and service.

At an early age, Mother Plowden began her Christian journey at Lane Chapel A.M.E. Church, where her dedication to ministry quickly became evident. Over the years, she played the piano, directed choirs, lovingly sewed robes for the youth choir, taught Sunday School and Bible study, and found her greatest joy singing songs that glorified the name of Jesus.

On January 23, 1960, Mother Plowden married the love of her life, Bishop Thomas Plowden Jr., with whom she shared a beautiful and fruitful union. Together, they served tirelessly in ministry, working side by side to build and fulfill the vision of Bible Way Temple of Lane in Lane, South Carolina and Bible Way Temple of Faith in Florence, South Carolina.. As First Lady, Mother Plowden's unwavering commitment and quiet strength were foundational to the church's growth and mission.

Mother Plowden served as the first President of the Women's Department of the International Bibleway Apostolic Christian Assembly. In this role, she faithfully provided visionary leadership and empowered countless women through prayer, teaching and service. Her dedication laid a strong spiritual foundation for future generations, fostering unity, growth, and a legacy of holiness within the organization.

In addition to her spiritual work, Mother Plowden was employed for many years at Oneita Knitting Mills Inc., where her strong work ethic and consistent character made her deeply respected. She also earned the IBM-Keypunch certification from Jacksonville Training Institute in Jacksonville, Florida.

Mother Plowden was a woman of deep conviction and powerful prayer. She taught her family, and anyone willing to listen, that true spiritual life came through a relationship with God and the infilling of the Holy Ghost. She didn't just talk about faith; she lived it. And she was known for keeping things honest: "If you didn't want to hear the truth, don't ask Hattie Emma." She spoke truth in love, and her words, though firm, were always rooted in wisdom.

Mother Plowden was preceded in death by: her son, Elder Nathaniel (Tonya) Plowden and her four brothers, Rev. Jerry Woods, Jr., Mr. Lee Woods, Sr., Mr. Daniel Woods and Mr. George Woods.

As Mother Plowden's health declined, she was blessed with a bonus daughter, Mary Mouzon, who would spend time with her on each of her visits to South Carolina.

She leaves to cherish: her husband of 65 years, Bishop Thomas Plowden, Jr.; her children, Elder R. Naomi Plowden and Elder Jeremy (Letitia) Plowden; four grandchildren, Kabrea Plowden, Brittany Plowden, Henry (Ericka) Harley and Janiya Plowden; three great-grandchildren, Amani McCutchen, Stacey Brown, III, and Ali Robinson; three sisters-in-law, Mrs. Phyllis Woods, Mrs. Mattie Lee Wilson and Mrs. Jannie McClary; two brothers-in-law, Deacon Robert Plowden and Apostle Jimmy Plowden, Sr.; caregivers, Sister Queen E. Conyers and Mother Annie McDowell; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A woman of humility, strength, and unwavering devotion to God, Mother Plowden lived a life of purpose and impact. Her presence was a blessing; her legacy will live on for generations.

The family is receiving friends and family at the Fellowship Hall, located at 7024 Seaboard Rd, Lane, SC, starting July 21, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Kingstree, SC. 843-354-2292.