MARIA A. MENDOZA

EASLEY  — María A. Mendoza, 88, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.

María was born in Cuba, on June 23, 1934, to the late Joaquín García and Ramona Medina. María was a great prayer warrior and loved to sing hymns and read her Bible. She enjoyed reading, crosswords, coloring and watching game shows such as “Jeopardy” and “Exatlón Estados Unidos.”

María is survived by three daughters, Silvia Mendoza (Michael DeMolina), Dámaris Rodríguez (Luis) and Lidia Fernández (Alex); four grandchildren, Valerie Rodríguez Michelena (Matthew), Britney Fernández, Jonathan Fernández and Ryan Rodríguez; one sister, Orfa García; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, María was preceded in death by her husband, Celso J. Mendoza; and one brother, Joaquín García.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 6, at Dade South Memorial Park in Miami, Fla.

 

 

 

 

JACOB ERIC BRIGHT

 

CENTRAL — Specialist Jacob Eric Bright, U.S. Army National Guard, 22, passed away on Feb. 18, 2023.

Born in Easley, he was the son of Janet Lee Arnold Bright and Eric and Dawn Bright. Jacob was a 2019 graduate of D.W. Daniel High School, where he was member of the wrestling team and active in the JROTC. Even after graduation, he volunteered his time to assist the JROTC at Daniel High School.

He was currently serving his country in the U.S. Army National Guard, mobilized to the National Capital Region, 2-263 Air Defense Artillery Battalion in support of Operation Noble Eagle. Jacob was a member of Greater Life Worship Center, where he was an active member of the youth program and assisted with the media.

He is survived by his parents, Janet Lee Arnold Bright of Greenville and Eric and Dawn Bright of Central; brothers, Matthew A. Bright of Greenville, Jonathan Bright (Kimberly Black) of Central, Aaron Akins (Tiffany Cole) of Central and Daniel Akins (Abby Burton) of Taylors; grandparents, Stanley and Jan Bright and Barbara Schweers; nieces, Aliyah Bright, Raylee Bright and Bayleigh Akins; and a nephew, Bentley Akins.

The family received friends on Feb. 27 at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home in Central.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 28 in the funeral home chapel. Burial with full military honors followed at Cross Roads Baptist Church Cemetery, Easley.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to D.W. Daniel High School JROTC, 140 Blue and Gold Blvd., Central, SC 29630, Attn: Tiffany Cole. Please put on memo line Bright, JROTC.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home and Cremations, Central-Clemson Commons.

 

DEBRA  LOVINGGOOD HARRIS

PICKENS — Debra L. Harris, 62, loving wife of Marty Harris, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023, at her home, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.

Debbie was born in Pickens County on April 13, 1960, to Shirley Newton Lovinggood and the late George M. Lovinggood.

Debbie was a graduate of Pickens High School. She was a member of Pickens First Baptist Church, where she was very involved in the choir, youth group and many other activities. Debbie had a love for life, and she loved spending time with her family.

She loved to go on trips with family, concerts with her closest friends and loved spending time with her dogs. Debbie was known for her willingness to give and care for others. She was a fighter; she never gave up and always had a positive attitude, no matter what she was faced with.

Debbie is survived by her husband, Marty Harris; her mother, Shirley Newton Lovinggood; her children, Wes Hiott (Lindsey), Josh Hiott and Brett Harris; grandchildren, Eva Hiott, Hadley Hiott, Hayes Hiott and Kennedy Garrett; her brother, Jim Lovinggood (Denise); her niece, Nicole Meares (Brandon); her nephew, Jonathon Lovinggood (Taylor); father-in-law, Shuratt Harris; in-laws, Wes Harris (Cindy) and their children, Jeffrey, Nikki, Drew, Ryan and Cherie Littlejohn (Mark) and their children, Addie and Grace; and many loving cousins.

She was predeceased by her father, George M. Lovinggood; her grandparents, H.M. and Louise Lovinggood and Norman and Mildred Newton; her mother-in-law, Rachel Harris.

 

ALVIN SMITH

EASLEY — Alvin Smith, 63, loving husband to Denise Smith, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, at AnMed Health Cannon in Pickens.

Born on Dec. 22, 1959, in Oconee County, Alvin was the son of the late Grady and Mary Smith. Mr. Smith was a wonderful father and family man. He enjoyed camping, the mountains and spreading the Word of God.

Survivors include his wife, Denise Smith of the home; his children, Amanda Pierce of Liberty, Clint Smith of Clemson and Bethany Smith of Easley; grandchildren, Austin Millwood, Samantha Millwood and Emilie Morgan; and great-grandchildren, Aurora Weimer and Breaylynn Millwood.

Mr. Smith was predeceased by his parents.

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

 

 

ROGER ALVIN BRACKEN

 

EASLEY — Roger Alvin Bracken, 81, loving husband of 56 and a half years to Brenda Cope Bracken, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.

A native of Pickens County, Mr. Bracken was born on Oct. 1, 1941, to the late Alvin Tinsley Bracken and Ethel Mae Rogers Bracken. Mr. Bracken was a United States Army veteran and was a member of the Masons in Easley and Enon Baptist Church.

In addition to his wife, Brenda of the home, Mr. Bracken is survived by his children, Karen Ann Booty (Larry) of Easley and Laura Hope Bracken of Denver, Colo.; his grandchildren, Hannah Grant, Brandon Booty and Megan Booty; a great-grandchild, Mari Anne Gamble; and a brother, Fred A. Bracken (Linda).

Mr. Bracken was predeceased by his parents, a daughter, Angela Annette Bracken, and his sister, Martha Ann Bracken Campbell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Bracken’s honor to Enon Baptist Church building and grounds fund.

A celebration of Mr. Bracken’s life took place on Feb. 25.

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

 

 

FRANK PELFREY

 

LIBERTY — It is with great sadness that the Pelfrey family regrets to inform you of the passing of Mr. Frank Leroy Pelfrey, 89 years young. He entered his Heavenly home on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, following an extended illness.

Frank was born in Walhalla and served in the United States Navy during the Korean War crisis. He completed an around-the-world cruise before the age of 20. As a young man, he completed his high school education at Greenville Technical College and later studied auto body/painting at Tri-County Technical College. He spent much of his working career as supervision/management in the manufacturing industry with Platt Saco Lowell Corporation, General Electric Gas Turbines, Ohio Gear Corporation, Alcoa Fujikura Ltd. Inc. and Champion Aviation Products Group. Following retirement, he retired a second time from the School District of Pickens County as a custodian for Liberty High School at the age of 80.

He was a devout Christian and member of Jones Avenue Baptist Church.

He loved cars, cars and more cars and would jump at the chance to go fishing at a moment’s notice.

He was the cherished and beloved husband of Mildred (Mick) Merck Pelfrey and the amazing Daddy to daughters Dyanna (Diane) Pelfrey Hunter of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Tammy Pelfrey Owens (Butch) and Janet Regina (Gina) Pelfrey of Easley. He was the proud Papa to Danielle Pelfrey McIntire, Ashley Owens Owen (Nick) and Taylor Joseph Owens (Brittany) of Easley; and the sweetest great-grand-papa to Jude Frank Stephens, Rowan McIntire, Violet McIntire, Knox Owen, Anna James Owen and the newest baby, Eliza Owens of Easley. Frank is also survived by a sister, Mary Lou Pelfrey Baumgarner (Bruce) of Williston; and two sisters-in-law, Frances Merck Sanders and Betty Kelly Merck, both of Norris. He was also a fun-loving uncle to numerous nieces and nephews and cherished his many relationships with extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester L. and Bertie Rogers Pelfrey of Walhalla; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert Earl (Bud) and Juanita Pelfrey of Anderson; his father and mother-in-law, Jule F. and Retta S. Merck of Norris; and two brothers-in-law, Edward Merck and Jerry Sanders, both of Norris.

The family receive friends at Liberty Mortuary on Feb. 24, followed by a celebration of life service with military honors.

Your presence is welcomed in person or online as we remember Papa’s love for God, family and friends, including his many tireless individual caregivers, Interim Home Health, Traditions Hospice, Hospice and Palliative Care of the Palmetto Region and the caregivers at The Retreat at Easley.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any memorial gifts be made to Monica and Justin Herring (toward their amazing children’s ministry) 122 Sand Creek Drive, Liberty SC 29657, and/or to woundedwarriorproject.org

A private burial will be scheduled on a later date at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery.

Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

MILDRED S. POWELL

EASLEY — Mrs. Mildred S. Powell, 89, loving wife of the late James “Hub” Powell, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, at Powdersville Post Acute in Easley.

Mrs. Powell was born in Six Mile on Dec. 19, 1933, to the late Albert and Hester Durham Stephens. She enjoyed gardening and was known by all for her “green thumb.” Mrs. Powell was also a wonderful cook and baker, and her peanut butter fudge was sent around the world to her family. She retired from Mayfair Mills and was a member of Victory Baptist Church in Easley.

Mrs. Powell is survived by her daughter, Caroline Davis (Marty) of Liberty; her five grandchildren, Suzanne Rogers, James Davis, Michaela Hughes (Austin), Tyler Davis (Julie) and Zachary Davis; and five great-grandchildren, Riley Hughes, Logan Hughes, Blake Rogers, Jarrod Rogers and Colt Rogers. She is also survived by five siblings, Frances Cromer, Sue Gilstrap, Ruby Duncan, Nell Thomas and Rosa Lee Britton.

In addition to her loving husband and her parents, Mrs. Powell was preceded in death by three siblings, Alma Reid, Martha Holliday and Vernon Stephens.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 24 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home, with interment following at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Flowers are accepted.

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

 

 

VERLON TERRELL MEALOR

 

EASLEY — Mr. Verlon Terrell Mealor, 87, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, after a brief illness.

Verlon was born in Toccoa, Ga., on Nov. 23, 1935, to the late T.H. “Hoyt” and Ruth Nalley Mealor. In his youth, he enjoyed camping and listening to music, especially gospel and country music. Verlon served his country in the U.S. Navy.

Verlon is survived by his three children, Teri Garrett (Roger), Tami Looper (Keith) and Tonya Perritt (James); two stepchildren, Cathy Vines (Ron) and Linda Harrison (Brian); six grandchildren, Jaymie Anderson (Erik), Jeremy Garrett (Marie), Kyle Perritt, Jonathan Garrett (Keshia), Justin Perritt and Tyler Mealor (Frida Duran); six step-grandchildren, Melonee Willis (Justin), Leanna Purdue, Natasha Fletcher (Nigel), Kirbi Bliss, Shelby Murphy (Craig) and Grace Johnson (Asjuwon); nine great-grandchildren; 12 step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Christine McGraw; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Verlon was preceded in death by his wife, Shelby Jean Mealor; a stepson, Greg Chappell; a grandson, Joshua Garrett; a brother, Edward Mealor; and two sisters, Barbara Harper and Debbie Evatt.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 23 at Cedar Rock Baptist Church. Interment followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

The family will be at their respective homes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association at heart.org/donate.

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

 

JUDITH E. LABOONE

EASLEY — Judith E. LaBoone, 80, loving wife to Joseph Wyatt LaBoone, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, at Cottingham Hospice House, in Seneca.

Born on May 6, 1942, in Greenville County, Judith was the daughter of the late Otis Smith and Gladys Kirk.

Survivors include her husband, Joseph Wyatt LaBoone of the home; her son, Allen LaBoone (Laura) of Seneca; her granddaughter, Courtney Friddle; her great-granddaughter, Anniston Nisbet; and her sisters, Bertie May Bowles, Mary Camp, Gail Chapman and Shirley Wood.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. LaBoone was predeceased by her siblings, Nancy Pace, Rudy Smith, Tony Smith, Ed Smith and Bobbie Jean Burgess.

A memorial service was held on Feb. 24 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

 

DORIS CHAPPELL

PICKENS — Doris Chappell, 97, loving wife of 55 years to the late Buren Chappell, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.

Born on Nov. 19, 1925, in Jackson County, N.C., Doris was the daughter of the late Emmett Bryson and Orpha Stephens Bryson. Mrs. Chappell was a faithful member of Secona Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir. She loved cooking for her family and keeping her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and watching her stories.

Survivors include her two daughters, Vickie Stewart and Becky Evett (Ricky), both of Pickens; grandchildren, Kerry Stewart (Paul) of Charleston, Alanna Trotter (Chad) of Pickens, Erin Stewart (Erler) Spartanburg, Kayla O’Rorke (Chris) of Greenville, Lesli Tucker of Pickens and Erica Evett of Pickens; great-grandchildren, Bryson (Lena), Kenna, Jack, Ruby, Daylen, Griffin, Christos, Seraphima, Aidan, Cambree, Killian, Nicodemus and Ledger; great-great-grandchildren, Layla and Charlie; a sister, Betty Mentrikoski; and sisters-in-law, Mary Bryson, Georgia Garrett, Joyce Middleton and Geraldine Anthony.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Chappell was predeceased by an infant daughter, Gilda Jean Chappell; her son-in-law, Dickie Stewart; sisters, Helen Patterson and June Holshouser; and brothers, Bobby Bryson and Donnie Bryson.

Visitation was held on Monday, Feb. 27, in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow. Burial followed the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Doris’ honor may be made to Secona Baptist Church, 234 Secona Road, Pickens, SC 29671 or to Regency SouthernCare Hospice, 880 S. Pleasantburg Drive, #1A, Greenville, SC 29607.

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

 

JUANITA R. WRIGHT

LIBERTY — Juanita R Wright, 87, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023.

Juanita was born in Abbeville, Ga., on July 12, 1935, to the late Johnny Armond and Annie Tucker Ring. She was a very strong, loving woman who loved her family dearly, including her precious dogs.

She is survived by one son, Stanley Register (Louise); four grandchildren, Kevin Watkins, Kim Ehrenkaufer (Ronald), James Register and Nathan Register (Melissa); six great-grandchildren; and four siblings, Monroe Ring (Shirley), Milton Ring (Wilene), Jim Ring (Gwen) and Melvina Brewer (Nolan).

In addition to her parents, Juanita was preceded in death by her loving husband, Leo Wright; one daughter, Joyce Watkins; and four siblings, Evone White, Donald Ring, Edward Ring and Perry Ring.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 26 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home. Interment followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

 

PAUL ‘LEN’ GILMER

EASLEY — Mr. Paul “Len” Leonard Gilmer, 71, husband of the late Linda Carol Sheppard Gilmer, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023.

Born in Anderson County, a son of the late Paul Andy Gilmer and the late Catherine Jordan Gilmer, Mr. Gilmer was a graduate of Parker High School, retired from Dunean Mills and was a member of Cross Roads Baptist Church.

Len was well known for his skills in shooting pool and dealing cards, but he was best known for the love he had for his family. He will be dearly missed by all who loved and knew him.

Surviving are two daughters, Bethany G. Cassell (Justin) of Pelzer and Lynn Lyda of Lyman; a son, J.R. Lyda (Kristy Baldwin) of Gray Court; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Gilmer was predeceased by a son, Jonathan Paul Gilmer; and a brother, Danny Eugene Gilmer.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 27 at Cross Roads Baptist Church in Easley. Burial followed in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Open Arms Hospice, 1836 W. Georgia Road, Simpsonville, SC 29680.

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

 

KENNETH WAYNE GRIFFIN

EASLEY — Mr. Kenneth Wayne Griffin, 77, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023.

Kenneth was born in Greenville on April 4, 1945, to the late Columbus and Sara Stegall Griffin. He loved the outdoors, going camping or going to the beach. Kenneth enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and woodworking. He worked as a manager at Winn Dixie for 40 years. Kenneth was a member of Victory Baptist Church and served as a deacon and taught Sunday school.

Kenneth is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Karen Gillespie Griffin; one daughter, Kellie Land (Gregg); two sons, Kenneth “Kenny” Griffin Jr. (Charity) and Kevin Griffin (Nikki); two brothers, Gerald Griffin and Terry Griffin; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a very special niece, Bridget Smith.

In addition to his parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 28 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home. Interment followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

 

 

ROBERT PEEK

 

EASLEY — Robert William Peek, 89, husband of the late Ellen Nealey Peek, of Easley, passed away Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023.

Born in Six Mile, he was a son of the late Dr. David and Florence Wike Peek. He proudly served with the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was a member of Calvary Hill Baptist Church.

Mr. Peek loved the outdoors and hunting. He also was an avid Clemson football and basketball fan.

Mr. Peek is survived by a son, Robin Peek (Darlene) of Pickens; a daughter, Sandra Gardner Chase (Scott) of Seneca; grandchildren, Chad Smith, Justin Smith, Corey Peek, Darren Peek (Casey) and Ras Peek (Briana); and six great-grandchildren.

In addition to his loving wife of 57 years, he was preceded in death by his brothers, David Peek and Barry Peek; and his sister, Frances Rogers.

Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, March 4, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home, Downtown. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 11-11:45 a.m. Saturday, March 4, at the funeral home.

Flowers will be accepted, and memorials may be made to Calvary Hill Baptist Church, 501 Rampey St., Easley, SC 29640.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory-Downtown, Easley.

 

 

WILLIAM E. CHASTAIN JR.

 

EASLEY — William Ernest “Bill” Chastain Jr., 75, departed from his earthly life surrounded by family on Feb. 20, 2023.

He was born in Greenville, on Sept. 18, 1947, to the late William E. Chastain Sr. and Sara Pruitt Chastain.

He was baptized in the Christian faith in 2022.

Bill was a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, serving during the Vietnam War, and was a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal.

Bill will be remembered as a loving son, husband, brother, father, uncle and grandfather.

Bill deeply loved all 10 of his grandchildren. Lexi held a special place in his heart as not only his granddaughter, but his “best friend.”

He treasured his nieces, Teryi, Liza, Carol (1975-2020) and Savannah, with all his heart.

Bill’s wit and humor always brightened every room he entered. You could always count on him for a good laugh.

His kind heart never judged, and he always encouraged others to love and accept all.

He will be greatly missed by his pets that he loved dearly, Laddie, his rescue dog; and his two cats, Lenox and Red.

In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his brother, Jimmy Chastain, and daughter, Carrie Jean Hall. He is survived by his wife, Roxanne Chastain; sisters, Nancy Teachman (Jeff), Janet Bowen (Ken) and Susan King; daughter, Crystal Williams (Quincy); son, Brian Patterson; and two sons by marriage, Bryan Head (Amanda) and Kris Edwards.

Semper Fidelis, for he was, is and shall forever be a United States Marine. The family will host a memorial service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting stjude.org/.

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

A funeral service for Debbie will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens. Visitation will be held an hour prior, starting at 1 p.m., in the chapel. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to AnMed Cancer Center, 2000 E. Greenville St., Suite 5130, Anderson, SC 29621.

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

 

 

WILLIAM H. ‘BILL’ WHITTAKER

 

EASLEY — William H. “Bill” Whittaker, 91, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born on Nov. 15, 1931, in Atlantic City, N.J., Bill was the son of the late Albert and Edna Whittaker. Mr. Whittaker was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean War. He was a pilot, a Third Degree Mason and Past Master and helped the Liberty Senior Center with transportation. In his spare time, he enjoyed building model cars and visiting with his men’s group for their morning breakfast.

Survivors include his children, Melonie Lutz of Pennsylvania and Bill Whittaker Jr. (Kathi) of Palm Bay, Fla.; four grandchildren; and two sisters, Ruth and Jane.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Whittaker was predeceased by his brothers, Albert, Charles and Dick; and his sisters, Dot and Jinnie.

The family held a celebration of life service on Feb. 23, in the sanctuary of Easley Church of God.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bill’s honor may be made to the Liberty Senior Center, 105 S. Norman St., Liberty SC, 29657.

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