Mary Ann Childers Rauton

Mary Ann Childers Rauton, 92, of Charleston, South Carolina, wife of George Eldred Rauton, entered into eternal rest Sunday, January 18, 2026. Her Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026 in the Doorway Baptist Church, 7825 Dorchester Road at 11:30 am. The family will receive friends Saturday from 10:30 am to 11:30 am in Doorway Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. West Ashley Chapel.

Ann was born December 20, 1933 in Griffin, Georgia, daughter of the late Charlie Jewel Childers and Mary Lou Daniel Childers. Being the oldest of five, Ann had a nurturing devotion to her family and friends. She was generous with her love and support to any project set before her, especially those that involved her church. Ann had a heart for Missions. Her many endeavors included WMU, the Connie Maxwell Home, Campers of Mission, World Changers, Mission trips to Brazil, Friends of Bonnie Doone, and Operation Christmas Child. She was especially proud of two projects she headed at Doorway; the pillowcase ministry for MUSC’s Children’s Hospital and Back to School bookbags sent to the children in the Appalachian Mountains. She and El faithfully attended church and could be found in the choir loft, singing God’s praises, on any Sunday.

Ann began her career at the Charleston Naval Shipyard. She worked in purchasing and eventually became the highest ranking women civilian at the time, reporting directly to the commanding officer. Years later, she went to help her husband open George E. Rauton, Inc. The business sold and installed carpet, cabinets, countertops, linoleum and wood flooring. Ann was the account manager and found her niche in home decorating, lending her talents to homeowners desiring the newest decor.

Affectionately known as “Nana”, Ann was an avid Gamecock fan. She and El (Papa) held season tickets for 30 years. They watched three generations grow-up at Williams Brice, cheering for their Gamecocks win or lose. She was a member, and one time president, for the Charleston Exchange Club Auxiliary. She was named “Woman of the Year” by the Charleston Federation of Women’s Clubs. Ann donated her time and effort to her girls’ activities; from Girls Scouts to choral concerts, school projects and even last minute cupcakes for school bake sales. She rarely turned down an opportunity to help others.

Ann adored her husband, George “El” Rauton. They were the first members to be married in the new sanctuary at Dorchester Waylyn Baptist Church. She went with El when he was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. The Army sent El home ahead of her. She bravely flew home alone, with an infant in her arms. She would not allow anyone to hold the baby, except the pilot who carried Sandra off the plane. El and Ann were blessed with a successful business. The success allowed them to travel the world. Memorable vacations included Holland, London, France, Switzerland, Brazil, Hawaii, the Grand Canyon, and Alaska to revisit their former years in the Army. The family often went camping with many of their close friends; Rocks Pond being a favorite for weekend getaways.

In addition to her loving husband of 73 years, George Rauton, she is survived by daughters Sandra Buck (Stuart) of Mount Pleasant, Janice Gamble of Charleston, grandchildren Elizabeth Cumbee (C.R.) of Macedonia, Blake Gamble (Sara) of Pittsburgh, great-grandchildren Parker Ballard, Mary Caroline Ballard, Isobel Gamble, Rohan Cumbee, and Harper Cumbee, and her brother Larry Childers and sister Sue Nussman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Teresa Ann Rauton, brother Charles Childers, and sister Jane Neal.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her caregiver Estelle Asby, for her loving care and dedication to our mother the past 3 years, and Roper Hospice for their services, care and comfort.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Doorway Baptist Church Missions.

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