DERRICK EDWARD COLLINS

LEXINGTON — Derrick Edward Collins, 43, passed away on July 14, 2024, in Lexington.

Born on Feb. 22, 1981, in Easley, Derrick was a dedicated professional who served Michelin Tire Corporation for 25 years. His remarkable skills in maintenance and passion for repairs were well recognized within his workplace. Derrick was also a graduate of Tri-County Technical College with an associate’s degree in industrial technology.

Beyond his professional life, Derrick was a man of many hobbies, including movies, music and a profound love for nature and science. His hands were often busy with projects around his home, such as building a chicken coop and a vanity mirror, reflecting his love for fixing and building things. Derrick was a spirited individual who cherished his time outdoors, engaging in gardening and thrilling adventures, and spending cherished moments during family movie nights. He was also passionate about sharing his love for science with his sons through various experiments, a testament to his nurturing spirit.

Derrick is survived by his loving family — his mother, Donna Reid Collins of Pickens; stepmother, Connie Collins-Peay of Pickens; his wife, Crystal Collins of Lexington; sons, Craig Heflin and Graham Collins, both of Lexington; and brothers, Darren Collins (Candice) of Easley, Ethan Collins (Alexandra) of Easley and Wayne Roper (Courtney) of Seneca.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronnie Edward Collins.

A memorial service for Derrick was held July 28 at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Dillard Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Derrick’s life and legacy will be remembered for his unwavering passion, dedication and the profound impact he had on those around him.

 

MARY SUE DURHAM

EASLEY — Mary Sue Durham, 76, loving wife of 49 years to the late Winfred Durham, passed away on Monday, July 22, 2024, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born Feb. 13, 1948, in Pickens County, Sue was the daughter of the late Grady Lyday and Martha Lyday. Mrs. Durham was a member of Smith Grove Baptist Church in Liberty. She loved taking care of her animals and family.

Survivors include her son, Junior Durham (Jennifer) of Liberty; grandchildren, Elizabeth Brown (Jake), Alyssa Whitcomb (Tyler) and Luke Durham (Julia); sister, Ruby Durham; and daughter-in-law, Rhonda Nalley (Brad).

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Durham was predeceased by her brothers, Woodrow Lesley, Estes Lyday, Henry Lyday, Hoke Lyday, J.C. Lyday and Robert Lyday; and sisters, Essie Johnson and Jessie Medlin.

Funeral services were held on July 26 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens. Burial followed the service at Cross Roads Baptist Church cemetery in Easley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sue’s honor may be made to the Pickens County Humane Society, 500 Five Forks Road, Liberty.

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

 

MARVIN EDWARD RACKLEY

EASLEY — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Marvin Edward Rackley.

He departed from this world on July 23, 2024, at the home of his son, Dennis. Marvin was born on Dec. 3, 1946, in his hometown of Liberty. He was a son of the late Homer and Lucille Hawkins Rackley and was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Marvin was cherished by many for his wit and love for life. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran who bravely served in Vietnam. Marvin was known for his love of the great outdoors. Whether it was fishing by any nearby lake or hunting in the woods, he found solace and joy in nature. His adventurous spirit also led him to enjoy the thrill of riding motorcycles, particularly his beloved Harley-Davidsons, and indulging in his passion for tractor pulling and hot rod trucks.

A skilled mechanic by trade, Marvin’s hands had a magic touch that could fix anything that came his way. His expertise in truck maintenance was unmatched, a talent he honed through his career as a truck driver in the bustling industry. After a long day’s work, he would unwind in his garden, tending to his plants with care and dedication.

He is survived by a son, Dennis Rackley of Easley, with whom he had lived and shared many adventures over the last seven months. He is also survived by two grandsons, Zachary Rackley and Clayton Rackley.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Betty, Brenda, Judy and Nancy; and a brother, Preston.

As we gather to bid farewell to Marvin Rackley, let us remember his vibrant spirit, his love for adventure and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. May his memory live on in our hearts and may he rest in eternal peace.

In honor of Marvin’s life, a graveside service with military honors will be held at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery at 2 p.m. July 31. Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating his legacy and sharing cherished memories on that day.

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

 

JAMES BENJAMIN DAVIS

SIX MILE — James Benjamin Davis, 74, loving husband of 30 years to Sharon Jean Sears Davis, entered into his Heavenly home on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at his home.

Born Jan. 30, 1950, in Spartanburg County, James was the son of the late Olin Lewis Davis and Betty June Owensby Davis. James worked as a deputy sheriff in Greenville County for 14 years and was the owner of A1 Investigations for 34 years. Mr. Davis enjoyed hunting, fishing, sports and watching TV. He loved his family and his five fur babies.

Survivors include his wife, Sharon Davis of the home; a sister, Marsha Lawson of Enoree; two sisters-in-law, Wanda Harden (Roy) of Six Mile and Ila Davis of Enoree; a special great-niece, Ali Cannon; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Davis was predeceased by a sister, Janice Johnson; a brother, Johnny Davis; parents-in-law, Buck and Jessie Sears; and a sister-in-law, Brenda Cannon (Barney).

The family will hold a celebration of life service at 2 p.m. Aug. 17 in the sanctuary of Keowee Baptist Church, 544 Keowee Baptist Church Road, Six Mile.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorial donations in James’ honor may be made to Agape Hospice, 3 Independence Point #105, Greenville, SC 29615.

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

LUCILLE CLARK

PICKENS — Lucille Clark, 73, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Born July 29, 1950, Lucille was the daughter of the late Tom Grice and Lizzie Grice. Mrs. Clark enjoyed coffee (especially from Coyote Coffee) and sewing. She loved her family and her dogs dearly.

Survivors include children, Ronnie Clark (Rose) of California, Sandy Roper (Johnny) of Pickens, Melissa Clark of Pickens, Joann Cannon (Kenneth) of Salem and Tommy Clark of Pickens; 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Clark was predeceased by her husband, Herman “Heavy” Clark; a son, Donnie Clark; and three brothers.

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

 

DEBBIE D. WALLS

PICKENS — Debbie D. Walls, 54, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born Sept. 3, 1969, in Gainesville, Ga., Debbie was the daughter of Glenda D. Franklin and the late Hoyt E. Franklin. Mrs. Walls was a member of Emmanuel Gospel Tabernacle in Piedmont and enjoyed singing in church. She enjoyed art, crocheting and collecting angels and butterflies. She loved her family and her pets dearly.

Survivors include her mother, Glenda D. Franklin; her fiancé, Chris Bennett; brother, Eddie Franklin (Tonya); sister, Tammy Camp (Brad); two nieces and two nephews.

In addition to her father, Mrs. Walls was predeceased by her aunt, Irene Masters, and her grandmother, Ollie Franklin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Debbie’s honor may be made to the Pickens County Humane Society, 500 Five Forks Road, Liberty.

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