MELISSA DENISE ‘MISSY’ CHILDS

PICKENS — Melissa Denise Childs, 53, loving wife of 34 years to Marvin D. Childs, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Born Dec. 16, 1970, in Pickens County, Melissa was the daughter of James E. Stansell and Shelia Stansell. Melissa was a graduate of Pickens High School and Greenville Technical College. She loved the outdoors and people; she never met a stranger in her life. She was a great wife, mother, Mimi, baby girl and best friend.

Survivors include her husband, Marvin D. Childs of the home; a son, Matthew D. Childs (Shana) of Pickens; a granddaughter, Emily B. Childs of Pickens; parents, James E. Stansell and Shelia Stansell of Six Mile; and two sisters, Kristi Stephens and Jenna Powell, both of Pickens.

Mrs. Childs was predeceased by a sister, Jordan Lindsey.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 12, from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. in the sanctuary of Cove Creek Baptist Church in Pickens with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m. officiated by Pastor Travis Spivey. Burial will follow the service in Cove Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

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

 

SEAN MICHAEL REVILL

EASLEY — Sean Michael Revill died on May 28th, 2024, just as spring was turning into summer in the beautiful South Carolina backyard he shared with his partner of 9 years, Tiffany Bartolomei. Sean was born in Powell, Wyo., on March 15, 1982.

He developed a love of hunting pheasant and playing golf as a young lad with his father, Steve Revill. He and John Palmersheim, his second Dad, shared a love of the NBA and energetic games of driveway basketball. He attended Byron High School and graduated from Darby High School in 2000. He went to Miles City Community College on a golf and basketball scholarship. After college, he spent time in Wyoming, Colorado, and Washington. He returned to Montana where he doted endlessly on his sister, Maureen (Mo), in all her endeavors throughout high school, inspiring a love of athleticism. He loved his mother, Erin, who instilled in him the importance of a good education, kindness, loyalty, and compassion for others.

Sean gave back to his community through his passions. Sean coached First Tee, a non-profit youth empowerment golf organization, in Upstate South Carolina. Sean also challenged the retirees in his community with pickleball games. He had a competitive and playful spirit and challenged and encouraged all friends on and off the golf course. Sean had a big heart for animal rescue and loved many furry friends. His big personality always shined, and he left others with positive motivation to believe anything was possible. Sean was also a sensitive soul, whose heart felt the significant loss of loved ones and friends over his lifespan. He cared deeply for others.

In the summer of 2015, Sean met Tiffany and fell in love in Missoula, Mo. This ignited a long-lasting love filled with romance, joy, excitement, and adventure. Sean brought out the playfulness in Tiffany. He taught her to be spontaneous, to be silly, and to enjoy life whole-heartedly. They went on many grand adventures; exploring the country from the mountains to the sea.

Sean was a wonderful friend and loyal companion to all. He enjoyed many passions in life including golf, travel, hiking, pickleball, rec softball, floating the Clark Fork River, Kiwanis beach volleyball, concerts and making magical memories in the wilderness. Sean fulfilled his dream of moving to South Carolina to warmer weather and a year-round golf season! He achieved his goal of owning a beautiful home in the countryside of Easley, where he built a peaceful life with his many beloved animals, including Hazel and Hunter, Tater,and Birdie. Hazel, the chocolate lab, reminded him of his childhood dog, Coco.

Sean is survived by the love of his life, Tiffany Bartolomei, Easley; his mother, Erin Casey of Darby, Mont.; his father, Steve Revill of Powell, Wyo.; and his sister, Maureen Palmersheim of Cambridge, Mass. He loved his numerous aunts and uncles including Seana (Ross) Labree, Christopher (Paulette) Casey, Sioux (Jeff) Icenhower, Joel (Kristin) Revill; as well as nieces and nephews, Katherine LaBree (Chris Thomas), Alex LaBree, Chris Casey, Jr., Joshua Wood, Justin Wood and Anna and Sam Revill. Sean also loved his Palmersheim family of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Sean was preceded in death by his second father, John Palmersheim; his grandparents, Joe and Mary Ann Revill; and Anita Akin, maternal grandmother.

 

LAWRENCE ‘LONNIE’ CALVIN SKELTON

PICKENS — On Friday, June 7, 2024, Lawrence “Lonnie” Calvin Skelton of Pickens County went to be with his Heavenly Father.

He was born June 9, 1939, in Greenville and was the son of the late Jule and Ollie Ballenger Skelton of Dacusville. He had a passion for picking his guitar, making music and was an avid horseman. He started playing guitar when he was a young boy. He never met a stranger and loved to tell stories, they always sounded like a song when he was telling them. He was a cowboy song writer and a storyteller all his life.

Skelton was retired from Falcon Industries.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Janice Skelton of 64 years, and he was the last surviving brother of 13 siblings: seven brothers and five sisters.

He is survived by his son, Danny (Kim) Skelton of Purcell, Okla. and daughter, Rhonda (Mark) Burton of Easley; six loving grandchildren, Daniel Skelton (Nancy) of Simpsonville, Autumn Sosebee (Chris) of Travelers Rest, Joshua Starnes (Shea) of Norman, Okla., Cody McClain of Pickens, Ryan Burton of Easley and Dana Cunningham of Charleston. Also surviving are nine precious and loving great-grandchildren. He survived by a special collection of nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

A visitation for Lonnie will be held on Friday, June 14, from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Lonnie will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial park.

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

 

OLLIE ‘GIG’ MAE ALEXANDER

PICKENS — Ollie “Gig” Mae Alexander, 91, of Pickens, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Gig was born in Pickens to the late William Roy and Lassie Jane Garren.

Gig was a long-time member of Red Hill Baptist Church; and was the owner of Garren’s Cafe for over 30 years. The cafe was a place for her community to gather and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal. She enjoyed sitting down with her customers and visiting with them. She loved the community she served and was loved by them as well. During her spare time, she often was seen with her sister Brenda working in the yard with her flowers and plants.

Gig is survived by her three sisters, Bonnie Parnell, Ida Price and Betty Brock (John); brother, Ron Garren (Betti); son-in-law, Jerry Black; and special friends, Pat and Fred Granger. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Gig was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband of 50 years, Morris Alexander; daughter, Judy Elaine Black; brothers, Carl, Bob and Alton Garren; and sister Brenda Garren.

Funeral service for Gig were held on June 10, at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home, 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens. Gig was laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

 

WILLARD CHAPMAN JR.

PICKENS — Willard Chapman Jr., 71, loving husband of 29 years to Patricia Porter Chapman, passed away on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born March 29, 1953, in South Carolina, Willard was the son of the late Willard Chapman Sr. and Lucille Rackley Chapman.

Survivors include his wife, Patricia Chapman of the home; two daughters, Susan Mareadey (Tony) of Liberty and Carla Garret of Easley; two sons, Richard Eades (Dianne) of Easley and Christopher Eades (Belinda); grandchildren, Shane Douglas Puckett, Michael Dustin Puckett, Levi Garret, Austin Garret, Daisy Garret and Zachary Chapman; many great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Nita (Dick), Teresa (Steve) and Debra (Larry).

In addition to his parents, Mr. Chapman was predeceased by a grandson, Garret Chapman and a brother, Douglas Chapman.

Memorial service were held on June 11 at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

 

MARY FRANCES REVIS

PICKENS — Mary Frances Revis, 79, of Pickens, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, June 2, 2024.

Mary was born in Easley, to the late Dewey Revis and Frances Thomas Revis, and was a member of East Pickens Baptist Church. After graduating from Pickens High School, she began working at Cornell Dubilier Electronics and retired after 48 years as a group supervisor.

Mary is survived by her sister-in-law, Jane Holcombe (Jackie). Mary also leaves behind her niece, Machelle Revis Hayes (Reggie) and her nephew ,Robert Revis to cherish her memory.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother Robert “Pete” Revis.

A graveside service for Mary was held June 6, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2410 Gentry Memorial Hwy, Pickens.

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

HOYETT INGLE

PICKENS — Hoyett Ingle, 91, loving husband of 4 years to Zona Marie Ingle, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at his home.

Born Nov. 30, 1932, in Lynn, Ala., Hoyett was the son of the late William Daly Ingle and Mary Lou Flora Ables. Mr. Ingle was a United States Navy veteran. After serving in the Navy, Hoyett operated a boat storage business, ran Hoyett’s Fish and Tackle, and worked for USA News Paper. He was a graduate of the South Carolina Fire Academy and worked as a fireman and EMS driver. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. He loved teaching his grandchildren to fish and spending time with his fur babies, Bonnie and Clyde.

Survivors include his wife, Zona Marie Ingle of the home; a son, Kurt A. Ingle (Sara) of Oviedo, Fla.; two step-daughters, Rebecca Jones (Robert) of Bradenton, Fla. and Bonnie Bullock (Kim) of Kite, Ga.; a granddaughter, Ava Ingle; step-granddaughters, Amber Hawk and Kelli Fortner; two step-grandsons, Shane Parrish and Casey Hawthorne; and eight great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Ingle was predeceased by a brother and a sister.

Funeral services were held on June 5, at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Hoyett’s honor may be made to Grace Community Pantry, Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, 4174 Dacusville Hwy, Easley, SC 29640.

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

LARRY FREDRICK CHANDLER

EASLEY — Larry Fredrick Chandler, 85, was a beloved father, brother, and veteran of the United States Navy.

Born in Liberty, he was the widower to Jo Ann Busha Chandler to whom he had been married for over 50 years and a son to the late Cabell Fredrick and Lessie Harrison Chandler, he was a kind-hearted man with a passion for fishing, playing cards with loved ones and rooting for the Atlanta Braves. Larry will be remembered for his joyful spirit and love for his family and friends.

Larry dedicated 21 years of his life to serving his country as a Chief Petty Officer in the Navy during the Vietnam War. After his military service, Larry worked diligently for over two decades at Michelin Tire Corp., showcasing his strong work ethic and dedication to providing for his family.

He is survived by his daughter, Kim Brown (Scott); sons, Mike (Janice) and Mark Chandler (Cindy); brothers, Bobby, Terry and Johnny Chandler; sisters, Judy Sheriff and Sherry Thrasher; five grandchildren, Jonathan Chandler (Betsy), Cory Brown, Derek Chandler (Shalynn), Brian Chandler (Jeana) and Brad Chandler (Misty); and 17 great-grandchildren. Larry will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by a brother, James Leon Chandler.

Celebration of Larry’s life took place at the visitation at Liberty Mortuary on June 8, followed by a graveside service at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

Larry’s memories will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him, honoring his legacy of hard work, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and country. Rest in peace, Larry.

You may share a memory and offer condolences to the family by visiting libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

BOB MERRIFIELD

LIBERTY — Robert James Merrifield, lovingly known as Bob to his friends and family, passed away on May 31, 2024, at the age of 80 in his home in Liberty.

Born on March 25, 1944, in North Tonawanda, N.Y., he was a son of the late Clarence and Frances Carney Merrifield.

He served in the United States Navy and eventually retired from NCR, where he dedicated his career to maintenance. His work ethic was unmatched, and he took great pride in his job.

In addition to his career, Bob found joy in simple pleasures. A devoted fan of Clemson football, he could often be found cheering on his favorite team. He also had a passion for NASCAR racing and golf, finding solace and enjoyment in these sports.

He was survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Janet Merrifield of the home; his three children, Tracey Swords (Joel), Keith Merrifield (Robin) and Jill Merrifield (Theron Campbell); a sister, Peggy Babcock; six grandchildren, Leighton Gillespie, Michael Merrifield, Avery Merrifield, Levi Merrifield, Blake Swords and Kasey Holcombe; and 11 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Alice Brooks; and two brothers, Jack and Ted Merrifield.

Private graveside services will be held at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

Bob’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Though he may be gone, his spirit and love will forever remain a guiding light for those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in peace, Bob, may your legacy endure for generations to come.

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

ANN WHITAKER

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Cecilia Woodall Whitaker, a beloved homemaker and loving mother, who peacefully departed on May 27, 2024, at her home in Liberty.

Born on Jan. 4, 1947, in Seneca, she was a devoted wife to her late husband, Tommy Joe Whitaker (who passed away on May 31, 2024), and a daughter of the late John P. and Mary Kiko Woodall.

Ann will always be remembered for her unconditional love for her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She found joy in caring for them and watching them grow. Ann had a passion for true crime shows and delving into the world of Stephen King novels, always eager to lose herself in a thrilling story.

Surviving are two sons, Scot Whitaker (Rhonda) of Liberty and Johnny Ray Whitaker of Liberty; two grandchildren, Ryan Whitaker (Haley) of Liberty and Sydney Lemar (David) of Liberty; a step grandson, Scotty Evett of Easley; six great grandchildren, Audrey, Peyton, Addie, Eastin, Alayna and Elijah; also surviving are five brothers and sisters. She will be laid to rest with her husband at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the life of Ann Whitaker and the love and memories she leaves behind.

Ann’s legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to her family will continue to inspire us all. Rest in peace, Ann Cecilia Woodall Whitaker.

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

OBERA GILSTRAP SHERIFF

EASLEY — Obera Sheriff, 96, husband of the late Thomas Austin Sheriff, passed away Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Born in Pickens County on Sept. 29, 1927, she was a daughter of the late Minor and Piccola Shirley Gilstrap.

Obera retired from Swirl Manufacturing after 45 years of dedicated service. She was a lifelong member of Rock Springs Baptist Church where she worked in the nursery for 55 years. She enjoyed going to yard sales, crocheting, reading, baking, traveling to the beach and spending time with her family.

Surviving are her children, Jerry Sheriff of Greenville, Sharon Waldrop and Sherri Sheriff both of Easley; her grandchildren, Stefanie Maready (Stephen), Austin Sheriff, Lea Martin (Barry), TJ Waldrop, Judith Waldrop, Zach Holcombe and Sarah Jordan Holcombe Schwartz (Andrew); 10 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a son-in-law, Mike Holcombe of Easley; and a daughter-in-law, Cindy Sheriff of Easley.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, James “Jimmy” Sheriff; her daughters, Susan Holcombe and Shelia Fuller; two sons-in-law; and her sisters, Elizabeth Harris and Enid Holliday.

The service for Obera was June 10, at Rock Springs Baptist Church in the church chapel. Burial followed in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Rock Springs Baptist Church nursery at 201 Rock Springs Road, Easley, SC 29642 or osvhub.com/rock-springs-baptist-church/giving/funds.

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