JOHN ELLIOTT CLARK

EASLEY — Mr. John Elliott Clark, 69, of Easley, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, at Easley Baptist Hospital.

Born in Greenville County, he was the son of the late William B. and G. Fay Clark.

John was a retired state trooper and he enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time. He was also a very avid fan of the Clemson Tigers, Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Falcons.

John is survived by his wife, Martha Jean Clark; his son, Jason Clark (Pauline) of Easley; his son, Jeff Clark (Jessie) of Pickens; his daughter, Jennifer Clark of Easley; his brother, Michael Clark of Ohio; and his sister, Linda Clark of Easley; a bonus daughter, Angie Lynn Cook of Lancaster; and six grandchildren, Matthew Clark, Amber Clark, Will Watson, Jeremiah Watson, Brady Watson and Jordan Clark.

A celebration of life for John will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the NRA at donate.nra.org/donate or the S.C. Trooper Association, 4961 Broad River, Columbia, SC 296212, sctroopers.org/sctaf/.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

LYNN ‘LLYN’ MARIE SMITH

GREENVILLE — Lynn Marie Smith “Llyn”, 53, of Greenville, passed away on Monday, Feb. 12, at her home.

Born in Takoma Park, Md., on July 23, 1970, Llyn was the daughter of the late Bill “Smitty” Smith and Imogene “Jean” Dodgens Smith. Llyn was mother to Jeremy Cain Thomas, her beloved son who predeceased her in 2009.

Llyn spent the first year of her life in Maryland before the family moved to South Carolina. She deeply loved the natural beauty of the Upstate, especially the mountains, and knew all the best backroads.

She graduated from Easley High School, later trained in CAD drafting at Greenville Tech, and was a quick study at everything she undertook. But at heart, Llyn was an artist who spun straw into gold. She had the gift of repurposing random materials into striking jewelry, clothing, sculpted figurines, window frame paintings- whatever her very creative mind suggested.

Llyn loved classic British ghost stories and films, her black cat Vlad, morning glories and moonflowers and her backyard birds. She was an accomplished guitar player and (secret) songwriter.

Survivors include her mother, Imogene “Jean” Smith, who lives in Easley; long-time significant other, Benjie Gillespie, of Greenville; sisters, Leslie Smith and Lisa Pomeroy, both of Greenville; and treasured family members, Sandra Thomas of Pumpkintown and Leesa Rush of Simpsonville.

In addition to her son Jeremy, Llyn was predeceased by her father, Bill Smith of Easley; by Jeremy’s father Mitchell “Mitch” Thomas of Pumpkintown; and Jeremy’s grandfather, Mitchell “Mickey” Thomas, also of Pumpkintown.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Open Arms Hospice of Simpsonville.

A private remembrance will be planned at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Smith family.

 

ROBERT E. ‘BERT’ LINVILLE

EASLEY — Robert E. Linville “Bert”, 73, loving husband of 54 years to Brenda Hembree Linville, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born March 20, 1950, in Brevard, N.C., Robert was the son of the late Rufus J. Linville and Edna Landers Linville. Mr. Linville was loved by many friends and family. He was a believer in the Pentecostal faith. Robert earned an associate degree in architectural engineering. He was a fixer and loved to build things and restore old cars. Robert loved his family dearly and they were always his number one priority.

Survivors include his wife, Brenda H. Linville of the home; two daughters, Robbyn Linville of Easley and Heather Trutwin (Warren) of Anderson; grandchildren, Julia Trutwin, Brentley “Boo” and Wesley Trutwin (Victoria); sister-in-law, Betty Dowers (Terry); brother-in-law, Randy Hembree; chosen brother, Billy Meade; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Robert’s honor may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project by mailing PO Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516, by calling (855) 448-3997, or by visiting their website at woundedwarriorproject.org/donate.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Linville family.

STANLEY RALPH MOORE

CLEMSON — Stanley Ralph Moore, 67, of Clemson passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, with his family by his side.

Born in Seneca, he was the son of the late Herbert Ralph Moore and Frances Goss Moore. Stanley served his country faithfully as a MVP stationed in Germany during the Vietnam era. After his military service, he was employed at American Enka and then Ohio Gear.

He was a member of the American Legion in Norris. He was an avid pool shooter, winning many badges and tournaments. He also won many bowling trophies with his teammates at American Enka. He will be remembered for his big heart and calm demeanor. He was kind to all that he met and would help his friends with no reservations.

He spent eight years caring for his mother at home through her battle with cancer, listening to good Bible preaching, and great Southern Gospel music. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and is now in the presence of his Lord.

He is survived by a brother, Don Moore (Sherry); sisters, Teresa Crawford and Vicky Sexton (Jimmy) and many nephews and nieces.

Stanley was predeceased by his parents, a brother, Ricky Moore and brother-in-law, Johnny Crawford

The family held a graveside service at Corinth Baptist Church in Seneca on Feb. 16.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Moore family.

 

CLARA NELL OWENS PARTIN

EASLEY — Clara Nell Owens Partin, 96, of Easley, passed on to her final home on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024.

Born in Honaker, Va. (Russell County), she was a daughter to the late William McKinley Owens and Mae Owens.

She was predeceased by husband, Sidney Partin and brothers, Kenneth David Owens and Park Dean Owens. Surviving are two sisters-in-law, Joy Owens and Regina Plaugher.

She is also survived by daughters, Debra Alexander (Sidney), Amy Moore (Ryan) and Kelley Duncan (Phil Searcy); her grandchildren, Nic Alexander (Denni), Neil Alexander, Kent Moore, Mac Moore, Morgan Duncan and Ross Duncan;  and great-grandchildren, Brody Alexander, Layne Hendricks, Maggie Oaks and Wrigley Oaks.

Finally, there are her lifelong, loving friends, the family of the late Joe and Dorcas Holin, Steve and Donna Uldrick, David Hollin, Daryl and Misty Hollin and their families.

Clara raised three strong, independent daughters who give full credit to their mom for teaching them the value of loyalty, graciousness, tolerance and humility. For her part, any kind gesture was acknowledged with a note, every. single. time.

Clara was a registered nurse with her longest tenure being Easley Baptist Hospital where she cared for many families and friends. Everyone who knew her could recall a time when Mrs. Clara provided comfort during happy or stressful procedures. Hospital staff deemed her “The Peacemaker.” Clara embraced life, laughed easily, and although she was not openly sentimental, she was known for her hand-holding and patting gesture when speaking to anyone.

Clara’s favorite place on earth was the glider on her porch where she would bask in the sun for hours. Neighbors would not just wave but stop regularly to chat.

She had been a steadfast member of Geer Memorial Baptist Church for 55 years. Clara was a founding member of the Botany Park Women’s Club. She regularly gave her time volunteering at the Free Medical Clinic, Voting Polls, and at the hospital.

Family meant everything to her, and “Nana” was simply everything to her family, who saw her as a most respected matriarch. Clara never allowed anything to get her down and saw the best in everyone. Her life was full of goodness and grace. She demonstrated this by example as we watched lovingly, proud to call her ours.

A celebration of Clara’s life were held Feb. 17, at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, Easley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Samaritan Health Clinic at 303 Dacusville Hwy. Easley, SC 29640.

The family wants to give special thanks to Elena Roach at Crescent Hospice.

Please visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory-Downtown, Easley.

 

ROBERT L. ‘BOB’ PRICE

PICKENS — Robert L. Price “Bob”, 64, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, at his home.

Born Nov. 4, 1959, in London, England, Bob was the son of the late Stanley Price and Joan Price. Mr. Price enjoyed traveling, guns, working on cars and spending time with others.

Survivors include two sons, Phillip Price and Ben Price, both of Pickens; grandchildren, Michael, Amber and Marcus; and two sisters, Sandra Moon (Ronnie) and Trish Tabor (Curtis).

Mr. Price was predeceased by his parents.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Price family.

 

MAC GRAVLEY

LIBERTY — Mac Franklin Gravley, 81, a beloved member of the Liberty community, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

He was born on Oct. 21, 1942, the widower of Martha Burgess Gravley and a son of the late Walter Carey Gravley and Lillie Gilstrap Gravley Bryant.

He was a dedicated member of Rice’s Creek Baptist Church, where he found solace and strength in his faith. He exemplified the values of compassion, humility, and kindness, and his presence within the church will be deeply missed.

A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, Mac served his country with honor and distinction. His time in the military forged in him a strong sense of duty and unwavering commitment to his fellow servicemen and women.

Beyond his military service, Mac was a giving soul who selflessly volunteered for the Liberty Fire Department and the Liberty Rescue Squad for many years. He dutifully responded to emergencies, lending a helping hand and providing comfort to those in need. His unwavering dedication to the community resonated deeply among his peers and those whose lives he touched. He had retired from Michelin Tire in Sandy Springs after 23 years.

He is survived by his son, Keith Gravley (Crystal); his daughter, Missi Bates (Chris); a brother, Walter Carroll Gravley; a sister Louise Harrison; seven grandchildren, Kristin, Breanne, Brandon, Danny, Tori, Brandon and Andrew; and seven great-grandchildren, Trey, Khloe, Tanner, Gunner, Silas, Addy and Winry.

The funeral service to honor Mac’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Feb. 21 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. He will be laid to rest beside his wife at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

Mac Gravley’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His compassionate nature, unwavering dedication, and love for his community will be remembered by all. As we bid him farewell, may we find solace in knowing that his spirit will forever inspire us to live with kindness and to serve others, just as he did.

Rest in peace, dear Mac. You will be greatly missed, but your memory will shine brightly in our hearts.

 

LOIS E. CAREY

LIBERTY — Lois Carey passed away in her home surrounded by family on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.

Born to the late Mary (nee Lewandowski) and George Reitmeier on Sept. 23, 1934, in Buffalo, N.Y., she lived most of her adult life in the upcountry of S.C., first in Taylors and later in Liberty.

Lois spent many years raising her family and creating a nurturing household, and afterward established a home-based screen print business she managed herself, producing t-shirts for groups and businesses across the upstate until only a few years ago. A competitive athlete, she enjoyed playing softball and bowling, watching all manners of sports, especially football, and remained an avid Clemson Tigers and Buffalo Bills fan. She was a fervent gardener, traditional baker, creative craftsperson, automotive enthusiast and tenacious, two-time cancer survivor.

She was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, David W. Carey Sr., and her older brother, Kenneth Reitmeier.

She is survived by, her son, Dave Jr. (Bridget); daughters, Sue (David) Hanks and Betsy Bish; seven grandchildren, Hannah Carey, Carson Carey, Lauren (Oscar) Martinez, Breanna Hanks, Aidan Bish, Morgan Bish and Jason Bish; her oldest brother, George Reitmeier and wife Faith; many nieces and nephews; and her slippery dog ,PupPup.

Lois was last a member of Amazing Grace Lutheran Church, and led a full life of Christian faith and was an encouragement to others.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all the caregivers from Hospice of the Upstate, and to many friends and neighbors who helped lift Lois up during the last two years.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be celebrated on March 2, in the Liberty Mortuary chapel in Liberty, with visitation starting at 1 p.m. and service immediately following at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Pickens County Humane Society or Upstate Warrior Solution on Lois’ behalf.

To share a memory or send condolences to the family, visit her obituary at libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services are handling arrangements.

 

LOIS BROWN

LIBERTY — Lois Stanton Brown, a beloved mother, sister and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 at her residence.

Born on Nov. 24, 1951, in Linton, Ind., to the late Roy Leon and Wanda Jane Kates Stanton, Lois dedicated over 40 years of her life to the nursing profession, with 35 years spent in the operating room and five years caring for medically challenged children.

With an Associate’s Degree in nursing, Lois was a dedicated and compassionate caregiver who touched the lives of many patients and their families over the years. After retiring, she enjoyed spending her free time sewing, reading, and playing solitaire. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, Zackary and Brian Sullivan.

Lois is survived by her daughter, Wanda Sullivan and her husband William; her brother, Richard “Rick” Stanton and his wife Rita; 10 nieces and nephews; and her adored grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceaded in death by her former husband, Keith Brown.

A graveside service to celebrate Lois’s life was held at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Easley, on Feb. 20.

In lieu of flowers , memorials may be made in her memory to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation by visiting Komen.org

Join us in celebrating the life of Lois Stanton Brown, a caring and dedicated nurse, and a cherished member of our family. She will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

 

LELAND RALPH ANTHONY ‘TONY’ KELLY

SIX MILE — Leland Ralph Anthony Kelly “Tony”, 53, loving husband of 17 years to the late Beverly Eliott Kelly, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, at Manna Post Acute in Pickens.

Born Aug. 27, 1970, in Greenville County, Tony was the son of Mary Canzanella Kelly and the late Leland Thomas Kelly. Tony graduated from Clemson University with an engineering degree and later worked for John Deere.

He was an avid animal lover and loved weightlifting and going to the gym. Mr. Kelly volunteered his time at a soup kitchen in Rock Hill and ushered a Catholic Church in Rock Hill.

Survivors include his mother, Mary Kelly of Six Mile; sister, Theresa Dunkley of Central; and nieces and nephews, Russell Kelly, Kaitlyn Dunkley, Kelsey Dunkley, Jordan Dunkley and Chris Looper.

Mr. Kelly was predeceased by his wife, Beverly Elliot Kelly and his father, Leland Thomas Kelly.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Tony’s honor may be made to Clemson Paw Partners, 115-B Commons Way, Central or to the Pickens County Animal Shelter, 193 County Farm Rd, Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Kelly family.

 

ANNE BARRETT

GREENVILLE — Anne Barrett, 85, passed away on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024, at Prisma Health Hospice of the Foothills.

Born May 20, 1938, in Greenville County, Anne was the daughter of the late Mamie Gilstrap. Anne loved the Lord and her family dearly. She was a great mother to her children.

Survivors include a son, Stephen Lamar Barrett of Greenville; two daughters, Regina Barrett Hammer (John) of Old Town, Fla., and Tammy Caraway (Lee) of Cape Coral, Fla.; grandchildren, Ashley Anaya (Ricky) and Dylan Hammer (Ashlee); great-grandchildren, Andrew Hammer, Cody Hammer, Sophia Anaya and Christian Anaya; sisters, Nellie Sue Lingerfelt and Lucille Dillard; and numerous nieces, nephews and family members.

In addition to her mother, Ms. Barrett was predeceased by a grandson, Sean Barrett; sisters, Irene, Willie Mae, Otis and Ola Mae; and brothers, Grady and Bill.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 21, from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens with a memorial service to follow at 3 p.m.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Barrett family.

 

KAREN LYNN YOUNG

SIX MILE — Karen Lynn Young, 62, loving wife to Daniel Young, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital in Seneca.

Born July 16, 1961, in Oconee County, Karen was the daughter of the late Carl Malcom Simpson and Sue Spurlock. Mrs. Young loved her family dearly and loved her dog, Jupiter. Karen was very outgoing and never met a stranger.

She enjoyed traveling to Pigeon Forge, especially the Apple Barn and loved lighthouses.

Survivors include her husband, Daniel Young of Six Mile; two sons, Jason A. Young (Mandy) and Patrick M. Young, both of Six Mile; a grandson, Jason A. Young, II; a sister, Wanda Revis of Seneca; and a brother, Wayne Simpson of Seneca.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Young was predeceased by a brother, Tony Simpson.

A graveside service will be held at Liberty Memorial Gardens at 10 a.m. on Feb. 21

In lieu of flowers, a memorial tree may be planted in Karen’s honor by visiting, shop.alivingtribute.org/products/tree-planting-with-commemorative-card.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Young family.

 

CAROLYN MCALISTER

LIBERTY — Carolyn Blalock McAlister, 88, a beloved member of the Liberty community, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Easley, on Sept. 9, 1935, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She dedicated her life to her family and her community, leaving a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mrs. McAlister was a daughter of the late Robert and Eva Alexander Blalock.  She graduated from Easley High School, May 28, 1953, and later that day she also married the love of her life and husband of 71 years.

Throughout her life, Carolyn played an active role in her local churches, including Liberty First Baptist Church where her and her husband spent many years working in the nursery.  Prior to that they were active members of Smith Grove Baptist Church, where she worked tirelessly in various capacities including serving as church treasurer for 26 years.

She worked alongside her husband, Mac McAlister, at McAlister Auto Sales in Easley for many years, contributing to the success of their family business in the automotive industry.

Carolyn cherished her family above all else.

She took great joy in spending time with her children and grandchildren, whether it be on the farm or at the lake, creating lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

Surviving is her husband, R.E. “Mac” McAlister of the home; two daughters, Cindy Lewis (Mark) of Liberty and Jan Wells (Van) of Anderson; also surviving are three grandchildren, Carla Lewis of Mt. Pleasant, Courtney Lewis (Laura) of Liberty and Caroline Johnson (Jimmy) of Anderson; and one great grandchild, Coleman Lewis.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Anita Carol, two sisters and two brothers.

A memorial service to honor Carolyn’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Feb. 23, in the Liberty Mortuary Cchapel.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2 until 2:45 p.m. at the mortuary.  A private burial will be at Smith Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Liberty First Baptist Church, PO Box 207, Liberty.

Though Carolyn may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will live on in the cherished memories shared by all who knew and loved her.

She will be deeply missed, but her kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith in Christ will never be forgotten. May she rest in eternal peace.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com.  Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.