Vivian Ayers Allen, SC native and poet, has died at 102

Vivian Ayers Allen, a poet, classicist and activist, died this week at the age of 102, according to her daughter, actress and producer Debbie Allen.

The Chester native was also the mother of actress Phylicia Rashad, star of “The Cosby Show” and a Broadway director and performer. She also had two sons, “Tex” Allen and Hugh Allen.

The poet’s first collection, “Spice of Dawns,” was published in 1952 and was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.

Throughout her decades-long career the writer studied classical literature, Mayan culture and astronomy, and she wrote plays, according to the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts and Culture in Charlotte.

“My heartfelt condolences are with the family of Dr. Vivian Ayers Allen,” U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., shared on Facebook Aug. 21.