JOSEPH W. GRANT

PICKENS — Joseph Walter Grant, 91, beloved husband of the late Katherine Artie Mae Riggins Grant, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 13, 2025, at his earthly home.

Born on Aug. 8, 1933, in Pickens, he was a son of the late Julius Walter Grant and Addie Malinda Hudson Grant.

Mr. Grant was a member of Bethany Church of God in Pickens for 73 years. He retired from Singer, now TTI, in Pickens after 37 years of dedicated service. Following retirement, he worked at Winn-Dixie and retired for a second time from American Security after 13 years. He enjoyed going to the Pickens Flea Market every Wednesday and watching bull riding and western shows, but most of all, he loved spending time with his family and church family and going to church.

Surviving is his daughter, Tammy Davis of Pickens; a granddaughter, Katlyn Rademacher (Justin) of Taylors; two grandsons, Leon Davis of Pickens and Nathaniel Davis of Greenville; a great-granddaughter, Adalynn Mae Rademacher; a soon-to-be great-grandson, Lonzo Grant Rademacher, coming in July 2025; three sisters, Dorothy Dodgens, Elizabeth Eades and Katie Sue Grant, all of Pickens; a sister-in-law, Pawnee Moore of Pickens; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife of 51 years and his parents, he was predeceased by five sisters, Bernice Couch, Inez Grant, Bertha Townes, Veda Mae Townes and Addie Lou Grant; and three brothers, Rev. J. Bill Grant, Cecil Grant and Rev. Donald W. Grant.

The family wants to thank Agape Hospice Care for the wonderful care that was given to Mr. Grant.

The family will receive friends from 12:30-1:45 p.m. Friday, April 18, at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with the funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. in the chapel. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Bethany Church of God, 428 Hagood Mill Road, Pickens.

The family will be at the home of Katie Sue Grant at 156 Grant Road in Pickens.

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

 

SARA L STEWART

EASLEY — Sara L Stewart, 90, passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Sara was born in Cheddar, S.C., on May 17, 1934. She was a member of the United Wesleyan Church. Sara loved collecting cat figurines, exercising and especially her chocolate.

Sara is survived by her stepdaughter, Tracy Harbin; grandson, Jesses Harbin (Victoria); and a special niece, Teresa Hodges.

In addition to her parents, Sara was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Eugene Stewart; stepdaughter, JGenia Stewart Jones; and her sister, Carolyn Holcombe.

She will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens with her husband Raymond.

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

REBECCA RICHARDSON GREENE

MARIETTA — Rebecca Richardson Greene, 72, spent her final days in her favorite place, her home on the mountain, surrounded by her family and friends.

In the early morning of Thursday, April 10, 2025, Becky, as she was always known, passed gently into the arms of our Savior.

Becky is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, Victor Greene; her loving son, Michael Ramsey (Savannah); four grandsons, Hayden Ramsey, Cooper Ramsey, Lucas Ramsey and Beckett Ramsey; brother, Burke Richardson (Kathy); nephew, Eric (Sophie) Richardson; sister-in-law, Jennifer Greene; brothers-in-law, Duane (Susan) Greene and Robert (Connie) Greene, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lorine Winn Richardson, and father, Carl Thomas Richardson.

Born and raised in Columbia, Becky attended Clemson University before beginning her career in recreation. After working with students at (formerly) Old 96 Girl Scout Council and Roper Mountain Science Center, Becky found a passion for education and completed her master’s in education from Furman University. Having worked for Greenville County Schools for 31 years, Becky retired from her position as principal at Blue Ridge Middle School in June 2018.

To know Becky was to know her love of Christ, her devotion to her family, her spunk and wit and her passion for quilting. A member of Berea First Baptist Church for more than 40 years, she served on multiple committees, worked in the mother’s morning out program and taught Sunday school for many years. Becky traveled as often as life allowed, enjoying many ski trips with her husband and family and road trips with her girlfriends. Her love shined bright on everyone she knew, but most especially on her four grandsons, who will miss their Momo greatly.

A memorial service to commemorate Becky’s remarkable life was held at Berea First Baptist Church on April 14.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Becky’s memory to Berea First Baptist Church at https://giving.myamplify.io//app/giving/ncs-4054.

Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens is serving the Greene family.

 

KEVIN HENRY

LIBERTY — It is with both heavy hearts and joyful memories that we announce the passing of Kevin Lee Henry, who left this world much too soon on April 8, 2025, at the age of 59.

Born on Oct. 5, 1965, in Easley, he was a son of the late Eddie Clifton and Elizabeth Gayle Bryson Henry. Kevin spent his life spreading cheer and good vibes to all his family and friends in Liberty, where he called home.

Kevin was a man of many passions. He had a remarkable collection of pocketknives that any enthusiast would admire, and he rode his beloved Harley-Davidson Wide-Glide at every opportunity — wind in his face and freedom in his soul.

A true aficionado of music, he felt a special connection to classic rock and country, with Waylon Jennings holding a special place in his heart.

Professionally, Kevin worked for Kinetixx for more than 10 years and was the go-to guy, always ready to fix anything that needed a little TLC. But above all, he cherished his family.

Whether it was sharing a meal, reminiscing about old times or simply laughing together, his loved ones were the center of his universe.

Kevin is survived by his loving spouse, Susan Hansen Henry; and his dear sisters, Vicki Durham (Mike) and Sherri Wise (Rodney). He also had a special bond with his stepmother, Doris Henry, and a host of devoted friends and family who will miss him dearly.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Chris Henry.

A memorial service was held on April 10 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of the Upstate.

Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services are handling arrangements. For more, visit libertymortuary.com.

 

LAURIE LYNN SMITH

PICKENS — Laurie Lynn Smith, 58, loving wife of Derrill Lee Smith, entered her heavenly home on Friday, April 11, 2025, at her home.

Born March 14, 1967, in Indiana, she was the beloved daughter of the late Richard Lee and Betty Dowd Williams. She loved her Lord and Savior and enjoyed her time in worship and Bible study.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Bruce Smith and wife Marisa of Salem; and daughter, Kayla Segars and husband Glen of Liberty; and three granddaughters, Shyanne, Isabelle and Symphony Segars. She also leaves behind a special fur baby, Lilly; half-sister, Tina Pearson, and many nieces.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Christopher Williams.

Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. April 16 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service at the Holly Springs Baptist Church cemetery in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Smith family.

 

ELAINE COLLIER

SIX MILE — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phyllis Elaine Collier, who left us peacefully on April 7, 2025, at the age of 66.

Born on Nov. 12, 1958, in Easley, she was a daughter of the late Hugh Benjamin Willimon. She spent her life in Six Mile, where she not only worked in textiles at Kent Wool in Pickens, but also enriched her community with her vibrant spirit.

She was a dedicated mother to her daughters, Sarah Collier (George Freeman) and Stacy Collier (Tina Kirksey); her significant other, Don Muse; and a beloved daughter to her mother, Carolyn Willimon; her six grandchildren, Emily and Summer Phillips, Benjamin and Alexander Collier, Andrew Sears and Hunter Freeman; her bonus daughter, Nikki Parker. She is also survived by her cherished siblings, sisters, Sharon Crowe and Linda Willimon, and brother, Dennis Willimon (Uli).

Together, they shared countless memories that will forever brighten their hearts.

She was known for her deep love of nature; she found joy in planting beautiful flowers, watching birds — especially hummingbirds — flit about, and nurturing her beloved aquarium filled with fish. These small joys reflected her gentle spirit and appreciation for the beauty in the world around her.

Memorial services to honor her life were held on April 11 at the Liberty Mortuary chapel. No formal visitation is planned.

As we remember Elaine, we hold onto the laughter, love and kindness she brought into our lives. She will be deeply missed but will forever remain in our hearts.

The family will be at the home of her mother, 583 N. Main St., Six Mile. To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

ISAAC COUCH JR.

LIBERTY — Isaac Couch Jr., 32, passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at his residence.

Born on Dec. 9, 1992, in Pickens County, Isaac was the son of Isaac Couch Sr. and the late Marie McJunkins. Isaac was a happy person, always ready to share his bright smile with others. He loved his kids dearly and took great joy in being a daddy. He cared deeply about the people around him and loved to help. He had a knack for fixing things and enjoyed tinkering with anything that needed repair.

Survivors include his father, Isaac Couch Sr.; children, Albert E. Couch, Mary Ann Couch and Daisey Couch; brother, John Couch (Ann Marie); sisters, Deanna Couch and Jolyn Couch; aunt, Lisa Stancil (Dale); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Isaac was predeceased by his mother, Marie McJunkins; and his grandparents, Albert “Pee Wee” McJunkins and Eloise “Mary” McJunkins and Albert Couch Sr. and Patsy Couch.

The family is planning a memorial service that will be announced at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Couch family.

 

LEROY MERCK

CENTRAL — Walter Leroy Merck, a beloved father, grandfather and dedicated builder, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born on Mar. 19, 1935, in Central, he spent his life entire life the heart of the community he loved, crafting homes and memories for those around him.

He was a proud veteran of the Army, a testament to his dedication and service to his country. After returning from his military service, he channeled his craftsmanship into home building, establishing Walter Lee Builders. For more than 40 years, he poured his heart into constructing homes, believing that every space he built should be a sanctuary for families. Even in his later years, Leroy’s passion for building remained, and he could often be found at the Bubble Bath Car Washes that he maintained until his death at the age of 90.

Outside of work, he found joy in simple pleasures, particularly Saturday nights at the Midway Sale Barn, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of friends and community members.

His greatest treasures were his family; his daughter, Caroline Perkins; sons, Jamey Stone and Allen Stone (Carla); and his cherished grandchildren, Caden and Caimbrie Perkins and Jonathan, Jared and Chavis Stone; and one great-grandson, Silas. Also surviving are three brothers, David, Thurston and Kenneth Merck; and a sister, Linda Crenshaw.

His life revolved around spending time with Caden and Caimbrie, sharing stories and laughter, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

He is survived by his loving family and will be remembered for his hard work, dedication and the friendships he forged throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lem and Mae Bell Merck; two sisters, Essie Mae Kelley and Louise McCombs; and two brothers, Ernest Merck and Leonard “Shorty” Merck.

Graveside services to honor the life of Mr. Merck were conducted on April 11 at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Central. No formal visitation is planned.

 

KATHLEEN MAY RUMLER

LIBERTY — Kathleen May Rumler, 73, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2025, at her home, surrounded by family.

Born June 25, 1951, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Kathleen was the beloved daughter of the late James Vincent Gormly and Simone Gabrielle Basset Gormly. A gifted artist with a creative soul, Kathleen found joy in crafting and expressing herself through her art. She had a deep appreciation for nature, cherishing flowers, nurturing plants and spending peaceful moments birdwatching. Kathleen also had a love for British television, particularly period dramas, which reflected her appreciation for history and storytelling.

Survivors include her son, Jason Barone of Liberty; daughter, Rachel Eades of Easley; grandchildren, Lauren, Zayden and Cadence; siblings, Gerald, Eileen and Dorothy; Chanse, who was like a son to Kathleen; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Kathleen was predeceased by a son, David Barone, and her siblings, Robert, Richard, Marguerite, Frances, Jaqueline, Elizabeth, Violet and James.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Hospice of the Upstate for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided to Kathleen during her final days.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Rumler family.

 

PASTOR MIKE BELCHER

PICKENS — Pastor Michael Charles “Mike” Belcher, 62, beloved husband of Denease H. Belcher, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at his home surrounded by family and friends.

Born on April 3, 1963, in Paris, France, he was a son of the late Kyle Nelson Belcher and Evelyn Corina French Belcher.

Rev. Belcher was the current pastor at Lakeview Baptist Church in Pickens, serving the church for almost 25 years. He founded and served Lakeview Christian School in 2003, impacting many children’s lives. He enjoyed woodworking and playing pickleball and was an avid fan of the Virginia Tech Hokies.

In addition to his wife of 43 years, Denease, he is survived by his children, Justin Michael Belcher of Easley and Kelsey Belcher Nolin (Tyler) of Liberty; and a grandson whom he adored, Haddon Nolin.

Pastor Mike was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Terrance Kyle “Terry” Belcher.

A service to celebrate Pastor Mike’s life was held on April 12 in the sanctuary at Lakeview Baptist Church, 107 Mauldin Lake Road, Pickens. Burial took place at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

The family will be at the home.

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

 

CAROLYN M. ROPER

EASLEY — Carolyn Moore Roper, 83, beloved wife of the late Lewis “Arnold” Roper, passed away Thursday, April 10, 2025.

Born in Pickens County, she was a daughter of the late William Marvin Moore and Eula Finley Moore.

Mrs. Roper was a homemaker and a dental assistant earlier in her life. She was a dedicated and longtime member of Bible Baptist Church in Pickens. She enjoyed knitting, selling Avon products and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she greatly adored.

Surviving are her daughters, Conchita Roper Pearson (Dale) and Keisha Roper Ferguson (Mark), all of Easley; grandchildren, Samantha Davis, Shane Ferguson (Hayley), Tiffany Chapman, Tiffany Mann (Kevin), Kayla Southerlin (Justin), Kayla Corn (Lewis) and Colby Ferguson (Emma); great-grandchildren, Kenzie, Chloe, Ma’kayia, Sutton, Landon, Emmitt, Titus, Carsen, JJ, Beckett, Adley and Scarlett; a brother, Bud Moore of Easley; a special sister, Jean Smith; and a host of special family and friends who were always available to assist the needs of Mrs. Roper.

A special thank you to Judy and Ashley from Agape Care Hospice for the compassionate care that was shown to Mrs. Roper. They treated her as if she was their mother.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, Barry Shane Roper; two sisters, Beulah Galloway and Pauline Gillespie; and a brother, Roger Moore.

Funeral services were held on April 13 at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.

Flowers will be accepted.

The family will be at the home of her daughter, Keisha Ferguson.

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

 

ROBERT JEWELL

EASLEY — Mr. Robert Earl Jewell, 82, husband of Kay Murrell Jewell, passed away Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Born in Pickens County, a son of the late Ilar Robert Jewell and the late Lois Finley Jewell, Mr. Jewell was a graduate of Liberty High School and later received his associate degree from Tri-County Technical College.

He was the retired owner and operator of Jewell Electrical and was of the Baptist faith.

Robert was an honest and hard worker. He was a good friend to many and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He loved cattle farming and was an avid Clemson football fan, but his greatest love was for his family and grandchildren.

He will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew him.

Surviving, in addition to his loving wife of 55 years, are his son, Robert Andrew Jewell of Easley; his daughter, Elizabeth Jewell Cawley (John J. Cawley II) of Liberty; his grandchildren, Loren Elyssa Cawley and Samuel Robert Cawley; and a sister, Sarah Waldrop (Dennis) of Easley.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Jewell was predeceased by a brother, Donald Jewell; and a sister, Betty Jones.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. April 18, at the Jewell Family Cemetery, 110 Carmel Church Road, Liberty.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the graveside.

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

 

RAMONA ‘MONA’ HUNTER

EASLEY — Ramona “Mona” Hunter was born on Aug. 7, 1957, and passed away on April 9, 2025.

Mona was a woman of incredible strength and compassion and had a beautiful soul. She loved to laugh and mostly loved to make others laugh. She had an indescribable uniqueness about her smile that literally made her face light up and her eyes sparkle like glitter. She spent her life helping others, whether it was her job or helping a friend in need.

And if she wasn’t going above and beyond for her loved ones, you could find her in the kitchen doing what she loved best, which was baking (and dancing). She was known for her famous brownies and fudge, but she was never alone — there was always someone willing to help. Whether it was her kids or grandkids or even neighborhood kids, they were always welcome. And if she wasn’t baking, no worries, because she would have some type of chocolate or Litte Debbie cakes stashed away somewhere.

Mona was intelligent, creative and witty. She would go to any length to make sure you knew you were loved and protected by her. She was a woman of patience, love and unwavering support. She always found the light in the darkest of times. She always said, “never stop dancing in the rain, no matter how bad the storm!” Her legacy is one of love and selflessness, and her family is proud to carry that forward. She will be the most loved, admired and missed woman the world has ever known.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Hunter family.

 

FLOYD JAMES GALLOWAY

EASLEY — Floyd James Galloway, 91, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025, at his home.

He was born on Jan. 21, 1934, in Oconee County to Alan and Sophie Cannon Galloway. He was married to his second wife, Ruby Galloway, for 39 years.

Mr. Galloway worked for many years in the textile industry, and he also raised and sold cattle for many years while living in Salem. When he remarried and moved to Easley, he continued to work in textiles and also operated his own manufacturing business, Galloway Unlimited, where he designed and made reed hooks for the textile industry. His products were sold worldwide. In addition, he was a jack of all trades and could build and fix just about anything. He enjoyed gardening and had a vegetable garden every summer. He also enjoyed woodworking in his shop and sold or gifted many of the items that he made.

Mr. Galloway is survived by his son, Ron Galloway (Debra); his grandson, Eric Galloway; as well as his great-grandson, Easton Galloway, all of Easley. Easton always brought a smile to his Papa Floyd’s face when he visited, either in person or via FaceTime. He is also survived by a grandson, Brad Galloway, of Anderson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his second wife, Ruby Galloway; his son, Terry Galloway; and his sister and brother-in-law, Gladys and Walter Herron.

A funeral service was held on April 11 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home, with interment following at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Flowers are accepted, or memorials may be made in Mr. Galloway’s memory to a favorite charity.

Mountain View Funeral Home is assisting the family of Mr. Galloway.