JACQUELINE HAMILTON

LIBERTY — Jacqueline Hamilton, 68, of Liberty, passed away on Feb. 2, 2025.

She was born on March 11, 1956 to Jack Dupree and Clara Jean Crane Tinsley. She was a graduate of Clemson University. She owned a farm equipment and supplies business for 38 years. She was a member of Easley First Baptist and the head of the Board of Directors of the Pickens County Humane Society. She enjoyed caring for animals, shopping, the beach and taking care of her husband, Moseley, of 35 years.

Pree is survived by her husband, Moseley Hamilton; her sister, Jeannie Tinsley Gilstrap; one sister-in-law; three brothers-in-law; many nieces and nephews; a close friend, Barbara Robinson; and many more close friends.

She was predeceased by her parents.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 7 at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, Easley. Burial took place at Greenlawn Memorial Park following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pickens County Humane Society at 500 Five Forks Road, Liberty.

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

 

EDA MARIE BISELLI WHITE

EASLEY — Eda Marie Biselli White passed away on Feb. 2, 2025, at Viva Senior Living Center.

Mrs. White was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, on July 4, 1925, to the late Gino J. and Annette Zaffini Biselli. She grew up in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Canada, and after her marriage moved to St. John’s. Quebec, Canada, where she was employed by the Singer Manufacturing Company in the payroll and cost departments. Mrs. White was a homemaker as well as a teller for several years in the South Carolina National Bank and the first manager of Brunswick Yarns’ Mill Store. She enjoyed playing bridge, various hand crafts, baking and gardening. Mrs. White was an active member of the Pickens Garden Club and the Pickens Evening Women’s Club until her health declined. While she was in Canada, she was a captain of the Girl Guide Rangers. Mrs. White was a lifelong Episcopalian and a member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Easley.

Mrs. White is survived by a son, David White (Tammy); two granddaughters, Annalyn Marie Shivers (Connor) and Sarah Grace White; two great-grandchildren, Scarlet and Mason; and one niece, Deborah (Bill) Tierney.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. White was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, Arthur White; and two siblings, sister Jean and brother Gino.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Feb. 18 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home. The family will receive friends prior to the funeral from 10-10:45 a.m. in the Garden Room.

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

SAMIEL JONES MARTIN

EASLEY — Samiel Jones Martin, 88, of Easley, wife of the late Ben Hamilton Martin Jr., passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025.

Born on Dec. 27, 1936, in Pendleton, she was a daughter of the late Samuel Van Jones and Lessie Pace Jones. A proud graduate of Pendleton High School in 1954, Samiel continued her education and graduated from the Greenville General Hospital School of Nursing in 1957. Her career as a registered nurse took her to the Baptist Easley Hospital emergency room, where she devoted 35 years of her life.

Samiel was not only a remarkable nurse, but also a pillar of her church and community. As a devoted member of Easley Presbyterian Church, she contributed significantly as secretary of Women of the Church and served as circle leader on several occasions. Her commitment to service extended to numerous church committees, where her leadership and organizational skills were highly valued. Her passion for nurturing young minds was evident in her longtime role as a 4-H volunteer leader, where she made a lasting impact. Samiel was recognized on the State 4-H Volunteer Leader Board and earned accolades such as 4-H Volunteer Leader of the Year in Pickens County and likewise at the state level. Her zeal did not stop there; she was also a charter member of The Book Club, where she served as president twice, sharing her love for literature and fostering camaraderie among its members. For more than 30 years, Samiel was an active member of the Cedar Rock FCL Club, where her influence shaped many lives. Her leadership roles included serving as secretary and president, and her financial acumen was demonstrated through her tenure as treasurer of the county FCL Board. Additionally, she had a meaningful involvement with the state Junior Polled Hereford Association as a past advisor.

She is survived by three sons, Charles Martin of Anahuac, Texas, Robert Martin of Easley, and Ben H. Martin III (Rachel) of Salyersville, Ky.; a daughter, Ellen Musco (Gabe) of Easley; a sister, Gail Blackwell of Spartanburg; seven grandchildren, Julia Fielding (Cameron), Alesha Martin, Kelly Paluska (Brian), Sam Martin, Lessie Musco, Ivan Martin and Ida Lynne Martin; and five great-grandchildren, Wesley, Eadyn, Rachel, Claire and Abigail.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Elizabeth Bright, Marie Hamlin and Emily Martin.

Services were held on Feb. 8, and Samiel was laid to rest in Robinson Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Easley Presbyterian Church, 200 S. First St., Easley.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.

 

HAROLD ERNEST KELLEY

PICKENS — Harold Ernest Kelley, 88, of Pickens, and beloved husband of Leuna Anthony Kelley, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 9, 2025.

Born on Dec. 22, 1936, to the late Walter Dixon and Beulah Kelley, Harold grew up in the Red Hill community of Pickens, where he shared a deep love for the land and its people. A skilled carpenter, he retired from Duke Energy after helping construct the Oconee Nuclear Station reactors.

Known for his quiet spirit, strong work ethic, and keen attention to detail, Harold embraced the simple joys of life — cherished time with family, fresh vegetables from his garden, Saturday evening grilled steaks, and watching the seasons change from his swing alongside his wife and faithful dog. He took great pride in providing for his family and found joy in his weekly trips to the Pickens Flea Market. A natural storyteller, he loved sharing memories of his childhood in Pickens. He was a member of Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church. Harold is survived by his loving wife, Leuna, and their children; Ernie Kelley (Donna) and Tony Kelley (Lisa), both of Pickens and Sharon Laney (James) of Six Mile. He was a proud “Papa” to seven grandchildren; Casey Sims (Michael), Victoria Ramey (Matthew), Jacob Kelley (Becca), Kayla Gardo (Justin), Clinton Holden (Bethany), Daniel Holden (Taylor) and Seth Holden (Breanna); and “Papa” or “Pop” to 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Kelley; and his sister, Edna Gravely.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Feb. 13, in the chapel at Dillard Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Griffin Baptist Church, where the family will receive friends after the graveside service.

Flowers are appreciated, and memorial contributions may be made to Compassus Hospice in Harold’s honor.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Compassus Hospice for their compassionate care.

 

DEBBIE LYNN JACKSON

EASLEY — Debbie Lynn Jackson, 67, of Easley, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2025. She was born in Asheville, on March 20, 1957.

Debbie was a former member of the IPRA Rodeo Association. She retired after 30 years of service with Pickens County EMS as a paramedic.

Debbie is survived by Roni Seawright, Daniel Seawright, Justin Norris, Timika Hitchcock; brother, Randy Jackson; sister-in-law Ronda Jackson; beloved friends Julie McClenney and Angela Flemming. Debbie also leaves numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Debbie is preceded in death by her mother Linda Jackson; husband, Jesse L. Reese; brother, Jeffrey Jackson; niece, Bridget Jackson.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the family.

 

DORIS E DODGENS

EASLEY — Doris E Dodgens, 80, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Mrs. Dodgens was born in Easley, on May 25, 1944, to the late Roy and Beatrice Ramage Galloway. She was a faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church in Easley. Mrs. Dodgens loved to go fishing, spend time with her family and cheer on Clemson in football.

Mrs. Dodgens is survived by two sons, Joey Dodgens (Sarepta) and Greg Dodgens (Tracy); five grandchildren, Savannah Parker (Kent), Taylor Dodgens, McKenzie Dodgens, Gracie Dodgens and Levi Naylor; and four great-grandchildren, Cole Watkins, Aria Parker, Paul Parker and Blakely Evans.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Dodgens was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tommy Joe Dodgens; one sister, Frances “Sister” Peace; and two brothers, Jimmy and Harvey Galloway.

A graveside service was held on Feb. 10 at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Trinity Baptist Church, located at 3570 Pelzer Highway, Easley.

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

 

BANNISTER ‘BANNIE’ F. EADS

EASLEY — Mr. Bannister “Bannie” Franklin Eads, 79, husband of Nancy Steele Eads, went to be with his Lord and Savior Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born in Union, the son of the late Rev. George McDuffie Eads and the late Bessie Townsend Eads, Mr. Eads was a 1964 graduate of Easley High School, a graduate of Florida Military College and Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. He retired from Robinson Funeral Home and was a member of Easley First Baptist Church.

Bannie loved Jesus and his family. He cherished his time with his wife, Nancy, and his children and grandchildren. He was a funeral director and began his career at the age of 14 when he started working part-time at Robinson Funeral Home.

He devoted his life to helping people in their time of need over the years. He worked at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Mackey Mortuary and Westville Funeral Home, all in Greenville. He was the owner of B.F. Eads Funeral Home in Liberty, where he was also very active in civic affairs, serving as president of the Liberty Chamber of Commerce, Liberty Jaycees and Liberty Lions Club.

He was also chairman of the Miss Liberty Pageant and the Liberty Great Towns Committee, where he was influential in bringing several businesses to the Liberty area.

He returned to Robinson Funeral Home to finish his career doing what he loved.

Being surrounded by his family was the greatest joy of his life. He hated the beach, but spent a week there every summer just to spend precious time with his children and grandchildren. He rarely ventured down to the beach, but when he did, he always kept his shoes on. He loved music, especially gospel, hymns, oldies and classical, all of which he enjoyed playing on the piano. He loved the outdoors, he especially loved to make people laugh, and he would do anything for anyone. He loved life and lived big. He had a kind, compassionate heart, and we will miss him dearly.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 55 years, are his son, Ruston Bradley Eads (Beth Anne) of Greenville; his two daughters, Kerri Eads Griffith (Bill) of Greenville and Lindsey Eads Fisher (Cole) of Chapin; and his grandchildren, Avanelle, Ellis and Parker Eads, Macie and Saylor Griffith and Noah and Sam Fisher.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Eads was predeceased by a sister, Esther Eads.

The memorial service was Feb. 7 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, Easley, with Rev. Dr. John Adams and Rev. Gene Lockaby officiating.

Memorials may be made in memory of Bannie to the Make a Wish Foundation by visiting secure2.wish.org.

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

 

VIOLET AVANELL ROLAND

EASLEY — Violet Avanell Roland, 85, loving wife to the late Bobby Roland, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, at Powdersville Post Acute in Easley.

Born on July 30, 1939, in Pickens County, Avanell was the daughter of the late Oscar Noel Atkins and Alice Ellenburg Atkins. Mrs. Roland was a member of Blue Ridge View Baptist Church in Pickens. Most of all, she loved sharing with others about her Lord and Savior. She was bashful and shy but loved to talk when she got to know someone. She loved to work in her yard and enjoyed sharing her flowers with others. She was loved by all she met.

Survivors include her daughter, Patricia Dianne Monroe (Eric) of Moore; sisters, Alecia Bates (James) of Easley and Alene Owens of Pickens; a special sister-in-law, Mildred Atkins; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Roland was predeceased by a sister, Annette Aiken; and brothers, Carl Atkins and Clyde Atkins.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the caregivers at Powdersville Post Acute for the wonderful care that was given to Mrs. Roland.

A private service and burial will take place.

Memorials in Avanell’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association by visiting alz.org.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Roland family.

 

SEAN BRANDEN MURPHY

PICKENS — Sean Branden Murphy, 38, passed from this life on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Home in Pickens.

Sean was born in Fresno, Calif., the son of Paul Allen Murphy and Lisa Renae Murphy. He grew up in Coarsegold, Calif., in his younger years and loved the Cowboy lifestyle, his Dad talked him into riding a calf at age seven, which he enjoyed, he also loved the Coarsegold Rodeo each year.

The Murphy Family moved to Easley, in July 1995.  Sean immediately started training with the local Rec team for Football.  He loved the sport and played with his whole heart, he was proud to be the Quarterback in Middle School and High School.

Sean worked at A and R Environmental, Inc., since it was established in 1997.  A Company that his parents created dreamed that one day their children would want to run the Business, when his Dad passed in May of 2024, he along with his sisters and Mother continued running the Company.  He loved the NFL Draft and him and his Dad went every year since he was 11 years old.  He loved Fishing, he fished with his Grandparents often and learned from the best.   He enjoyed collecting baseball, football and Pokémon cards, that was his latest passion that he knew so much of. Sean didn’t know a stranger and he’d help you if you needed anything.  He was engaged to Jessica Long, whom he loved with all his heart.

He is survived by his Mother, Lisa Renae Murphy; fiancé, Jessica Long two sisters; Laurisa Ivery (Bryan) and Ashley Murphy; three Nieces, Natalie Renae Ivery, Allianna Sierra Murphy and Celina Jeanette Ivery, and one on the way. She is expected to be born right at the time of Sean’s Birthday, he was extremely excited about her arrival.

Funeral Services were held on Feb. 7, at Dillard Funeral Home and Hillcrest Memorial Park.