The Town of Fort Mill is grieving the loss of its most celebrated local environmentalist and philanthropist, Anne Springs Close, who died Aug. 19, 2021 at the age of 95.
Close is remembered as a hands-on member of the community, from her charitable efforts with the Springs Close Foundation to the fitness programs and equestrian camps she participated in at the Anne Springs Close Greenway. Close is known for her many contributions to the Town, including the dedication of Walter Y Elisha Park and the donation of the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex, which is now operated by the Upper Palmetto YMCA. She had a strong dedication to conservation, recreation and environmentalism and regularly helped foster those elements throughout South Carolina. Close was always a proponent of encouraging people to get back to nature and experience the world outdoors and is most famous for the creation of the Anne Springs Close Greenway, a 2,100-acre green space dedicated to conservation and environmental education. The loss of Mrs. Close to Fort Mill will be felt for years to come, but her legacy will live on for generations.
Keep an eye on the Town website for more information about Mrs. Close's life and accomplishments.