Category Archives: Obituaries
Courier Obits 8-17-16
Patsy Ann Bagwell
Six Mile — Patsy Ann Bagwell, 68, of 4724 Six Mile Highway, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2016, at her residence.
Born in Six Mile, she was a daughter of the late Mansell Bagwell and Martha Young Bagwell Childers.
She retired from Clemson University, where she worked as the operations manager for the Redfern Health Center.
Patsy was a member of Ridgeland Drive Baptist Church.
Surviving are a sister, Sheilah Bagwell of Six Mile; and two brothers, Tony Bagwell of Easley and Benny Bagwell of Six Mile.
Memorial services were Sunday, Aug. 14, at Ridgeland Drive Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Ridgeland Drive Baptist Church, 185 Ridgeland Drive, Six Mile SC 29682.
The family will be at their respective homes. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Bette Jean Whitley
GREENSBORO, N.C. — Proverbs 31:28: “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Although they will miss her greatly, the family of Bette Jean Murrow Whitley is grateful she has arrived into eternal life on Aug. 1, 2016. She possessed a wonderful, spunky sense of humor and an unmatched love of family. She forged loyal friendships that lasted a lifetime and treasured the times she spent with them dining out and shopping.
Her life was celebrated on Aug. 4, 2016, at Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Donald Thomas officiating. The family greeted friends in the fellowship hall during a reception following the service. Interment will be private.
Bette was born in Savannah, Ga., and was lovingly raised by Roy and Etta Murrow, and following Etta passing’s when Bette was 13, at the age of 15 she became part of the family of Dave and Lucille Bolman. She graduated from Curry High School, where she met her sweetheart and love of her life, Robert E. Whitley. They were married in 1950 and celebrated 57 years of marriage. After Bob’s retirement, they were quite successful for more than 30 years with a craft and basket-making business and enjoyed traveling to different craft fairs around the Southeast. She was a talented craftsman and could see the possibility of beautiful art in items that others could not. While raising four children, Bette was also a successful administrator over the years while Blue Bell transitioned to VF. Bette had a green thumb and treasured time in her yard tending to flowers and her garden. She was a life-long member of Mt. Pisgah UMC, where she participated in the Women’s Circle.
She was a supportive and loving wife and a shoulder to lean upon for her children. She remained in her home after Bob’s passing, because when her home was filled with family her heart was filled with joy. She adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be missed by her children and their spouses, David Whitley of Burlington, N.C., Dawn Whitley of Greensboro, N.C., Paige and Randy Jones of Boone, N.C., and Karen and Terry Grant of Pickens and former daughter-in-law, Melinda Whitley; grandchildren and spouses, Justin and Hannah Whitley, Sarah and Daniel Thomas, Abbey Powers, Brian Moore, Lauren and Christopher Prentice, Kaylie Jones, Kristen Jones, Annie and Ryan Lee and Matthew and Nicole Owens; and great-grandchildren, Ethan, Hayden, Joshua, Bridgette, Gage and Cooper. In addition to her parents and spouse, she was preceded in death by two grandsons, Brandon and Kyle Whitley.
The family would like to thank the wonderful care Bette received at Hospice Home of High Point during her brief stay. Floral tributes are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1801 Westchester Dr., High Point, NC 27262 or Mt. Pisgah UMC, 2600 Pisgah Church Rd, Greensboro, NC 27455. Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com. Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm chapel is assisting the Whitley family.
Larry Weiler
Easley — Mr. Lawrence Michael “Larry” Weiler, 57, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2016, at his home.
Born in Cheverly, Md., a son of the late Joseph Grafton and Connie Hitchcock Weiler, Mr. Weiler retired from Koon’s Roofing Company and was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 9576 and the Assembly 3065 (4th Degree). Larry was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.
Surviving are three sisters, Jo Anne W. Gregory of Taylors, Carol W. Rivers of Port Orange, Fla., and Linda W. Donoway of Delmar, Del.; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mr. Weiler was predeceased by a brother, Bruce A. Weiler.
Funeral mass was held Monday, Aug. 15, at St. Luke Catholic Church.
Family members are at their respective homes.
Memorials may be made to the Knights of Columbus, 558 Hampton Avenue, Pickens, SC 29671.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Donald G. Dodgens
Easley — Donald Gerald Dodgens, 94, of Cedar Rock Church Road, husband of the late Christine Stokes Dodgens, passed away Thursday Aug. 11, 2016, at his home.
Born in Pickens County, he was a son of the late Wade Hampton and Nealy Dodgens.
Mr. Dodgens was retired from Mayfair Mills, Glenwood Plant, after 49 years of dedicated service. He was a charter member of Glenwood Baptist Church, where he was a former usher, ordained deacon and secretary of the Sunday School. He was also a U.S. Army Veteran of WWII and enjoyed hunting and horseback riding.
Surviving are a son, Wayne Dodgens (Leah) of Seneca; a granddaughter, Kendall Philabaum (Michael) of Massillon, Ohio; and two great-grandchildren, Noah and Sydney Philabaum.
Mr. Dodgens was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by sisters Sue Mullinix, Bessie Weaver, Marge Owens, Hassie Edens and Bernice Lark; and brothers, Wyatt Dodgens, Larry (Bo) Dodgens and Dick Dodgens.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Aug. 15, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following in Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Glenwood Baptist Church, 325 Saco Lowell Road, Easley, SC 29640.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhome.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Joe Reinovsky
Sunset — Albert Joseph Reinovsky Jr. 58, husband of Paula Hendricks Reinovsky, passed from this life on Wednesday evening, Aug. 10, 2016, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.
Joe was born in Chester, a son of the late Dr. A.J. and Willie Mae Hill Reinovsky. He was retired as safety coordinator with MB Kahn Construction Co. and was formerly employed with Furman University in the receiving department and as a science teacher at both Pickens senior and junior high schools. Joe served as Scout Master of Troop 51, Boy Scouts of America in Pickens and was a U. S. Army Reserve veteran. An avid outdoorsman, Joe loved to camp, fish, hike and cook. He was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pickens.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Paula H. Reinovsky; sons, Justin Albert Reinovsky (fiancée Colleen Wright) of Sunset and Nicholas Dunham Reinovsky of Sunset; and daughter, Jennifer Hope Reinovsky, MD (fiancé Rick Mullett) of Baton Rouge, La. Also surviving are sisters, Rebecca Reinovsky Tomsyck, MD (John C.) of Charlotte, N.C., Roberta Reinovsky Wray (Charles V. Jr.) of Rock Hill, Regina Louise Reinovsky of Richmond, Va., and Rashidi Reinovsky Fawcett (H. Brian) of Pickens; and brothers, Arthur Donald Reinovsky of Turbeville and Robert William Reinovsky (Karen) of Pickens and his faithful companion, his dog, Cricket.
A funeral mass was conducted on Saturday, Aug. 13, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pickens, with the Rev. Bob Menard, O.F.M. officiating.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621 or to Boy Scout Troop 51, in care of Mike Parrott, 106 Oakhaven, Pickens, SC 29671.
Dillard Funeral Home assisted the Reinovsky family.
Patsy A. Knox
Easley — Patsy Ann Masters Knox, 77, of Old Stagecoach Road, passed away Sunday, Aug. 14, 2016, at her home.
Born on March 31, 1939, in Easley, she was a daughter of the late Alonzo and Leila McGimpsy Masters.
Mrs. Knox was a homemaker, musician and artist with all of her soul.
Surviving are her husband of 61 years, Waymon E. Knox; children, Jeff Knox (Cindy), Tammy Chapman, Penny Nivens (Don) and Mitch Knox (Allison); her beloved grandchildren, Trey Nivens, Kari Nivens Balliew (Jeremy), Jennifer Knox, Brooke Henderson, Danielle Knox, Nathan Rice (Britian), Matthew Chapman, Alexis Nivens, Cameron Knox, Kenli Knox and Kali Knox; a devoted Mema to 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; her sisters, Vonnie Wylie and Lynda Duncan (Wayne); and brothers, Ricky Masters and Randy Masters.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a granddaughter, Ashley Maria Knox; sisters, Betty Sloan (Jim) and Sybil Lesley (Roy); and a brother-in-law, Jim Wylie.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 17, at 3 p.m. in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial to follow in Westview Cemetery in Easley.
The family will receive friends prior to the service on Wednesday from 1-2:45 p.m. at the funeral home.
Flowers are accepted, or memorials may be made to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Rd., Anderson, SC 29621.
The family will be at the home. Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Susan Sitton Winslett
Easley — Susan Sitton Winslett, 59, of 104 Sunset Court, passed away Sunday, Aug. 14, 2016, at her home.
Born in Greenville, Susan was a daughter of the late Cephas Addison Sitton Jr. and the late Agnes Donnald Sitton. She graduated from Easley High School in 1975 and attended Clemson University. Susan was a senior inside sales representative for Guardian Building Products. She was a member of Easley First United Methodist Church.
Surviving are three daughters, Anna Winslett Ginn (Matt) and Amanda Grace Winslett, all of Anderson, and Lee Elizabeth Winslett of Easley; two sisters, Liza Byars (David) of Central and Katie West (Van) of Ruckersville, Va.; and one grandson, Caleb James Ginn. Susan was predeceased by a brother, Cephas Addison Sitton III.
Graveside funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, at Westview Cemetery, Easley.
The family will receive friends from noon-1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.
Memorials may be made to the Foothills Humane Society, 500 Five Forks Road, Liberty, SC 29657.
The family is at the home of Liza and David Byars, 133 Gordon Drive, Central, SC 29630.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Rose Marie Higgins and
Charissa Faith McSwain
SIX MILE — Rose Marie Higgins. 24, and her infant daughter, Charissa Faith McSwain, died July 25 and 26, 2016.
Rose was born in Easley, a daughter of Zane and Kathy Woodall Higgins. She was a member of Midway House of Prayer and was employed with McDonald’s in Pickens.
Survivors include Rose’s sons and brothers to Charissa, Aiden McSwain and Deryk McSwain, Rose’s parents, Zane and Kathy Higgins, sisters, Katie Higgins and Ashley Higgins, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Woodall Jr., Donna Morgan and Eugene Higgins.
A funeral service was conducted on Monday, Aug. 15, in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens. Burial followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens. Dillard Funeral Home assisted the family.
Courier Obituaries 8-10-16
Lucille S. Mason
Easley — Mrs. Helen “Lucille” Smith Mason, 85, wife of O’dell Mason, passed away Monday, Aug. 1, 2016, at her home.
Born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late William Elmer and Mary Ina Nix Smith, Mrs. Mason retired from Materials Management and was a member of Crosswell Apostolic Church, where she taught Sunday school for more than 15 years.
Surviving, in addition to her husband of 46 years, are a son, Chris Tant of Pickens; a brother, Grover Smith (Jimmie Ruth) of Easley; a sister, Rev. Ann Smith of Easley; a daughter-in-law, Kate Tant of Maryland; a step-son, Billy Mason of Blue Ridge; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Mason was predeceased by a son, Terry Tant; two sisters, Frances Delozier and Bessie Mae Bloodworth; and a daughter-in-law, Kim Tant.
Funeral services were Friday, Aug. 5, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Burial followed in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Dr. Herbert P. Cooper Jr.
Clemson — Dr. Herbert Press Cooper Jr., 75, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2016, after a long battle with cancer.
He was born in Anderson, the son of the late Sara Louise McCrary and Dr. Herbert Press Cooper Sr. Dr. Cooper was a lifetime resident of Clemson and a 1959 graduate of Daniel High School. After graduating from Clemson University with a B.S. degree, Dr. Cooper then graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina with a M.D. degree. After a one-year internship at Greenville Memorial Hospital, he spent more than four years in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, with one year in Vietnam, where he received a Bronze Star. He also spent more than three years in Berchtesgaden, Germany, where he met and married his wife, Traudl.
In 1973, he returned to Clemson and served as a family practice physician in the Clemson and Pendleton area until his retirement in June 2015. In 2013, he was selected to be a member of the inaugural class of the D.W. Daniel Athletic Hall of Fame. He had served on the School District of Pickens County Board of Trustees since 1992.
“The news of Dr. Cooper’s passing is very saddening for all of us who had the pleasure to know and work with him,” said Dr. Danny Merck, School District of Pickens County superintendent. “He has served on our board of trustees for 24 years, and he has left a legacy of supporting education that will have an impact on generations of students. His experience, insight, love for students, and love for his community will never be surpassed. I’m very grateful to have worked with him to build success for our students.”
Dr. Cooper is survived by his wife, Traudl, and two children, Herbie and Heidi, who are both physicians and who were both valedictorians at Daniel High School; brother, Tommy Cooper of Clemson; and sister, Mary Acock of Six Mile.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Sara Louise Shigley.
A memorial service for Dr. Cooper was held at the D.W. Daniel High School auditorium on Saturday, Aug. 6.
There was a private burial for Dr. Cooper at Woodland Cemetery on the campus of Clemson University.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. Herb Cooper Scholarship Fund in care of the Daniel Foundation, 140 Blue and Gold Blvd, Central, SC 29630.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
Genelle Pirnes
Liberty — Genelle Robinson Pirnes, 89, of 341 Slab Bridge Road, Liberty, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at the Hospice House in Anderson.
Born in Anderson, she was a daughter of the late Samuel T. and Alma Richey Robinson.
She retired from Singer and was a member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. She loved flowers and her church, but the most important thing in her life was her family.
Surviving are her husband, Stanley C. Pirnes of the home; two daughters, Patti Shirley (George) of Townville and Lori Dent (Michael) of Easley; a sister, Marie Newell of Pickens; a brother, Terry Robinson (Faye) of Lilburn, Ga.; and three grandchildren, Ethan and Andrew Dent and Katie Shirley.
In addition to her mother and father, she was preceded in death by a sister, Patricia R. Kay.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Pirnes were held Saturday, Aug. 2, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Liberty Memorial Gardens.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, Building Fund, 101 Pisgah Road, Easley SC 29642.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Dennis Broom
Easley — Dennis Broom, 75, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016.
A native of Transylvania County, N.C., he was the son of the late Kermit Henry Broom and Eva Mae Queen Broom. He was also preceded in death by a son, Jimmy Dean Broom, and sisters, Frances Parker and Vergie Broom.
Mr. Broom was of the Baptist faith and he loved hunting, fishing and softball.
Surviving are his children, Teresa Kelley of Six Mile; Sandra Dunn and husband Ray of Easley, and Dennis L. Broom and wife Michelle of Pickens; brother, Clifton Broom and wife Betty of Pickens; nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held on Friday, Aug. 5, at Woods Cemetery in Balsam Grove, N.C.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com. Moody-Connolly Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.
Keith James
Easley — Keith James, 70, of 135 Benton Park Drive, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016.
Born in Anderson County, he was the son of the late Willie and Gertrude Williamson James.
Keith was a humble man who dearly loved his Lord and family. He retired as a project manager with General Electric. He was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church, where he was a member of the In His Steps Sunday School Class, former deacon, Sunday School teacher, money counter, usher and served on the Finance and Personnel Committees. He also was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War where he was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star with V Device for Valor, and was a lifetime member of the Bates Masonic Lodge No. 189.
Surviving are his loving wife of 49 years, Janie Summey James; a son, Brian James and his wife, Julie, of Easley; his precious granddaughter, Elise James; a brother, Joe E. James and his wife, Carol, of Piedmont; and two nephews and three nieces.
In addition to his parents, Keith was predeceased by a granddaughter, Grace James, and a sister and brother-in-law, Wilola J. Stargel and Jerry Stargel.
A celebration of Keith’s life was held on Friday, Aug. 5, at Rock Springs Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers were the In His Steps Sunday School Class, the money counters of the church, GE retirees and past and present church ushers.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Widow’s Ministries of Rock Springs Baptist Church, 201 Rock Springs Road Easley, SC 29642 or to Paws 4 Liberty, 8939 Palomino Drive, Lake Worth, FL 33467, or paws4liberty.org.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
CARL E. WILLIAMS
LIBERTY — Carl Edward Williams, 69, of Liberty, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 30, 2016.
Born in Germany on Nov. 3, 1946, he was the son of the late Roy Edward and Helen Mueller Williams. Mr. Williams was an active member of Pickens First Baptist Church and was employed through BASF Corporation for more than 45 years. He attended Blanton’s Business College and was previously involved in NC/MI High School Athletic Association’s Sports Official Association. Mr. Williams was an avid golfer and outdoorsman, and served in Vietnam as a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Surviving are his wife of 28 years, Lynn Williams; two sons, Jacob and Chase Williams; mother and fathers-in-law, Betty and Henry Dendy and Win Powell; two brothers-in-law, Eric Powell (Samantha) and Robert Powell; five nephews, Matthew, Jackson, Timothy and Benjamin Powell, and Bryan Williams; and one niece, Jennifer Williams.
Mr. Williams was also predeceased by one brother, Terry Gene Williams.
Funeral services were held on Aug. 3 at Pickens First Baptist Church. Burial followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
The family will be at the home.
Memorials may be made to Pickens First Baptist Church Building Fund at 406 E. Main Street, Pickens, SC 29671.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Williams family.
LUCILLE GARRETT
SIX MILE — Lucille Cook Garrett, 100, wife of the late James Milford Garrett Sr., passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, July 31, 2016, at her home.
Born in Six Mile on July 11, 1916, she was the daughter of the late Claude and Minnie Cook. Mrs. Garrett was a member of Six Mile Baptist Church. She was a homemaker who enjoyed family gatherings, reading, quilting and gardening.
She is survived by her five children, James Garrett Jr. (Betty), Sherry Cox, Tom Garrett, Dale Garrett, and Allan Garrett (Tricia); one daughter-in-law, Karen Garrett; two siblings, Lillian Stewart and Claude Cook Jr.; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Garrett was also predeceased by one son, Donald Garrett; one son-in-law, Ron Cox; and two grandsons, Ben Boggs and Billy Ray Cox.
Funeral services were held on Aug. 4 at Six Mile Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
The family will be at the home.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to the Pickens County Meals on Wheels, 704 S. Pendleton St., Easley, SC 29640, or to the Hospice Care of South Carolina, 900 E. Main St., Easley, SC 29640.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Matthew Lee Brooks Sr.
SIX MILE — Matthew Lee Brooks Sr., 24, of Six Mile, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016.
He is survived by his children, MJ Brooks, Bella Brooks and Allen Brooks; his brother, Justin Brooks; his parents, Tim and Janet Brooks; his grandparents, Junior and Louise Pilgrim; his wife, Elizabeth Brooks; his uncles, Dallas Pilgrim, Tommy Pilgrim and Carl Brooks; and his aunts, Andrea Pilgrim and Shelba Brooks.
He was preceded in death by his uncle, Allen Pilgrim; and his grandparents, Grace and Sam Brooks.
The visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 12, at Faith Baptist Church in Norris from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The funeral service will follow immediately after at 3 p.m.
Interment will be at Faith Baptist Church – Norris Cemetery.
Margaret A. Roush
Liberty — Margaret Ann Wood Roush, 58, passed away Friday, Aug. 5, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Oconee County, a daughter of the late Walter and Bertha Louise Dill Wood, Margaret was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith.
Surviving are three sons, Thomas Roush, Donnie Roush and Brandon Browning; three daughters, Mary Roush, Jennifer Bice and Crystal Garcia; one brother, Carl Wood; five sisters, Mildred Lee, Doris Hannah, Audrey Goss, Jeanette Gallamore and Linda Porter; and seven grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Margaret was predeceased by two sisters, Beatrice Rogers and Dorothy Lauderdale.
Memorial services will be hosted by the family at a later date.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Judy Gray Pinkston
Pickens — Judy Gray Pinkston, R.N., 65, wife of Robert V. Pinkston Jr., died Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016, at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville.
Judy was born in Summerville, a daughter of Juanita McKay Gray of Beaufort and the late Allen Thomas Gray. She devoted her life to nursing, which she started at a young age as a candy striper while in high school. She was retired from Greenville Hospital System and was employed with The Presbyterian Communities of Easley, where she worked part-time because for her, sitting at home was not an option. Judy was a graduate of the Walterboro School of Practical Nursing and later Greenville Technical College, where she received an AS degree in nursing. She was a communicant of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Easley, and she was a member of The Cindy Parrott Chapter of The Daughters of the King.
Judy learned to cook at an early age and fancied herself as a specialist in good old-fashioned home country cooking. Her major hobby was going on adventures with her grandson Aiden to the library, parks, shopping and anywhere else he wanted to go. She took a great deal of pride in being Aiden’s “Granny Judy,” a role she truly and dearly loved.
Survivors include her husband, Robert, her daughter, Heidi M. Robinson and her husband Stephen of Liberty and grandson, Aiden Robinson. Also surviving are her mother, Nita Gray of Beaufort, and her sister, Pamela Thompson and her husband Steve of Beaufort, her father-in-law, Bob Pinkston, and sister-in-law, Mary Donna Pinkston, both of Beaufort, and her furry babies, Jack, Mikey and Baby Girl Kitty.
Funeral services were Aug. 6, 2016, at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Easley. A reception followrf in the church parish hall. Entombment will be at a later date.
The family asks that flowers be omitted and those desiring make memorials to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 1200 Powdersville Road, Easley, SC 29642 or to Foothills Presbyterian Community, 205 Bud Nalley Drive, Easley, SC 29642.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the CCU staff of St. Francis-Downtown, especially her nurses who cared for her during her last hours, namely Leigh Anne, Pat, Ann, Jordan and Strad, wonderful caregivers all.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Pinkston family.
Bette Jean Murrow
GREENVILE — Proverbs 31:28: “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Although they will miss her greatly, the family of Bette Jean Murrow Whitley is grateful she has arrived into eternal life on Aug. 1, 2016. She possessed a wonderful, spunky sense of humor and an unmatched love of family. She forged loyal friendships that lasted a lifetime and treasured the times she spent with them dining out and shopping.
Her life was celebrated on Aug. 4, 2016, at Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Donald Thomas officiating. The family greeted friends in the fellowship hall during a reception following the service. Interment will be private.
Bette was born in Savannah, Ga., and was lovingly raised by Roy and Etta Murrow, and following Etta passing’s when Bette was 13, at the age of 15 she became part of the family of Dave and Lucille Bolman. She graduated from Curry High School, where she met her sweetheart and love of her life, Robert E. Whitley. They were married in 1950 and celebrated 57 years of marriage. After Bob’s retirement, they were quite successful for more than 30 years with a craft and basket-making business and enjoyed traveling to different craft fairs around the Southeast. She was a talented craftsman and could see the possibility of beautiful art in items that others could not. While raising four children, Bette was also a successful administrator over the years while Blue Bell transitioned to VF. Bette had a green thumb and treasured time in her yard tending to flowers and her garden. She was a life-long member of Mt. Pisgah UMC, where she participated in the Women’s Circle.
She was a supportive and loving wife and a shoulder to lean upon for her children. She remained in her home after Bob’s passing, because when her home was filled with family her heart was filled with joy. She adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be missed by her children and their spouses, David Whitley of Burlington, N.C., Dawn Whitley of Greensboro, N.C., Paige and Randy Jones of Boone, N.C., and Karen and Terry Grant of Pickens and former daughter-in-law, Melinda Whitley; grandchildren and spouses, Justin and Hannah Whitley, Sarah and Daniel Thomas, Abbey Powers, Brian Moore, Lauren and Christopher Prentice, Kaylie Jones, Kristen Jones, Annie and Ryan Lee and Matthew and Nicole Owens; and great-grandchildren, Ethan, Hayden, Joshua, Bridgette, Gage and Cooper. In addition to her parents and spouse, she was preceded in death by two grandsons, Brandon and Kyle Whitley.
The family would like to thank the wonderful care Bette received at Hospice Home of High Point during her brief stay. Floral tributes are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1801 Westchester Dr., High Point, NC 27262 or Mt. Pisgah UMC, 2600 Pisgah Church Rd, Greensboro, NC 27455. Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com. Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm chapel is assisting the Whitley family.
Alton “Neal” O’Neal Dillashaw, Sr.
Easley — Mr. Alton “Neal” O’Neal Dillashaw Sr., 82, of Easley, husband to the late Mrs. Dorothy Jean Gray Dillashaw, passed away Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Greenwood County, the son of the late Jack Bruce Dillashaw and Onie Farmer Dillashaw, Mr. Dillashaw was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving during the Korean War. He was a claims adjuster with Nationwide Insurance for 20 years, owner and operator of Smith and Chiles Auto Body Inc. for 23 years before retiring, and was a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents and loving wife of 61 years, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Wallace Dillashaw and Jack Bruce “Junior” Dillashaw.
Surviving are two sons, Alton O’Neal Dillashaw Jr. (Debra), and Todd Dillashaw (Pam), all of Easley; five grandchildren, Bethany Holder (Adam), Derrick (Megan), Devon, Katelyn, and Brandon Dillashaw; and one great-grandchild, Maebry Dillashaw.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, Aug. 10, at noon in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, 1425 Powdersville Road, Easley. Burial will follow in Robinson Memorial Gardens.
The family will receive friends from 10:30-11:45 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Courier Obits 8-3-16
Longtime Liberty doctor dies
Dr. Jake King Holcombe
Liberty — Dr. Jake King Holcombe died at Greenville Health System on Saturday, July 30, 2016, at the age of 87.
Dr. Holcombe is survived by his wife, Carolyn B. Holcombe of Liberty, his daughter, Renee Holcombe of Easley, and his grandpoodle, Asher. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jake King Holcombe Sr. and Janie Vaughn Holcombe, an infant brother, James Holcombe, and sisters Mary Lou Sutherland and Margaret Bishop.
Dr. Holcombe was born on June 13, 1929, in Easley to Jake King Holcombe Sr. and Janie Vaughn Holcombe. Dr. Holcombe graduated from Easley High School and then earned his pharmacy degree at the University of South Carolina School of Pharmacy. After completing pharmacy school, he continued his education and earned his medical degree at The Medical College of South Carolina, now known as the Medical University of South Carolina, in June 1959. He completed his medical residency at Greenville Memorial Hospital and then began his medical career in Liberty. Dr. Holcombe practiced medicine in Liberty for more than 53 years. He retired in 2013 at the age of 84. Dr. Holcombe was a member of Liberty United Methodist Church.
Dr. Holcombe was devoted to his patients and community. Through the years, he served his community by providing free sport and camp physicals, free medical screenings in the community and provided medical coverage to high school football games for many years.
Funeral services to honor the life of Dr. Holcombe will be held at 3 p.m. Friday in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be held from 1:30-2:45 p.m. prior to the service at the mortuary. A private burial will be held at a later date.
Dr. Holcombe’s first passion was medicine, but he was also well known for his love of nature and animals.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Samaritan Health Clinic, the free medical clinic of Pickens County, at 303 Dacusville Highway, Easley, SC 29640, or the Greenville Humane Society, a “no kill” animal shelter, at 305 Airport Road, Greenville, SC 29607. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
Evelyn M. Crews
Easley — Mrs. Evelyn Mizell Crews, 99, wife of the late Ferman Glenn Crews, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born in Arcadia, Fla., a daughter of the late Thomas Everett and Mamie Elizabeth Beasley Mizell, Mrs. Crews was a homemaker and a member of Easley First Baptist Church, where she was a member of the church choir for more than 50 years.
Surviving are a son, Felton N. Crews (Sherry) of Easley; a daughter, Chris C. Swords of Easley; a sister, Phyllis Ann Deaton of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla.; a daughter-in-law Sarah Crews of Shalimar, Fla.; six grandchildren, Kim Humphries, Anna Price, Brandi Waldrop, Joey Crews, Sabrina Crews and Jade Swords Dugdale; six great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Crews was predeceased by a son, Joe T. Crews; a son-in-law, Terry A. Swords; two brothers and three sisters.
Funeral services were held Friday, July 29, at Easley First Baptist Church, with the Rev. Dr. John Adams officiating. Entombment followed in the Chapel of Reflections Mausoleum of Robinson Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Generations to Come of Easley First Baptist Church, 300 E. 1st Ave., Easley, SC 29640.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Rhonda Annette Barker
Easley — Rhonda Annette Barker, 49, wife of Kenny Barker, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, July 26, 2016, in Greenville.
Mrs. Barker was born in Pickens and the daughter of James McDonald and Betty Collins McDonald.
Mrs. Barker was employed with the Pickens County Board of Disabled and Special Needs as direct care staff. She was attending Pickens View Wesleyan Church.
Survivors include her husband of 27 years; one son, Steven Barker of Pickens (Allisa); one daughter, Heather Moore (Cody) of Easley; and two brothers, Richard McDonald and Michael McDonald (Judy), both of Pickens. She also leaves in her memory four grandchildren, Alton Winchester, Logan Barker, Alexis Barker and Aubree Moore, and also one grandchild soon to arrive.
A service was held Saturday, July 30, at Dillard Funeral Home. Burial took place at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens following the service.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Barker family.
J. B. Knight
PICKENS — J.B. Knight, 83, husband of Nellie Sue Entrekin Knight, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, July 29, 2016, at Richard Campbell Nursing Center in Anderson.
Mr. Knight was born in Oconee County, a son of the late Clyde H. and Rosalee Rice Knight. He was retired from Greenwood Mills in Liberty following 43 years of service. Mr. Knight was a member of Gap Hill Church of God in Six Mile, where he formerly served as volunteer choir leader and also as an elder of the church. He was a U.S. Army veteran.
Survivors include his wife, Nellie Sue Entrekin Knight; sons, the Rev. Rickey E. Knight (Theresa) of Honea Path and Jeff B. Knight of Pickens; grandchildren including Amanda Sturkie, Corey E. Knight, Brian Knight, the Rev. Jonathan R. Knight, Kayla Thompson and Matthew M. Knight; and 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by brothers, the Rev. Frank Knight and Melvin Knight, both of Seneca, and Roy Knight of Six Mile, and a sister, Lucille Ellenburg of Six Mile.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Knight was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Elaine Knight, sister, Helen K. Turner, and brothers, Samuel E. Knight and Harold H. Knight.
The funeral services were held on July 31, 2016, at Gap Hill Church of God. Burial followed at King’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staffs of Foothills Assisted Living in West Union, Richard Campbell Nursing Center in Anderson and to Patriot Hospice.
Memorials may be made to Gap Hill Church of God, 3540 Walhalla Highway, Six Mile, SC 29682.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Knight family.
Doris Teat
Central — Doris Elizabeth Black Teat, 84, wife of the late Joe Teat, passed away on Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at her home.
Mrs. Teat was born in Pickens County and was a daughter of the late Guy W. and Irene Elizabeth Burgess Black. She was retired from Sir Shirtmaker and was of the Baptist Faith.
Surviving are two daughters, Shirley Hayes and her husband, Jim of Central and Wanda Jo Teat of Liberty; one brother, Wallace Black of Six Mile; one sister, Sally Genell Clark of Liberty; two grandchildren, Becky Smith and her husband, Michael, and Joey Parsons; seven great-grandchildren, Justin Parson, Kelsey McMinn, Aidan and Peyton Dawson, Candise and Jamie Rhodes and Cole Parsons; and one great-great-grandchild, Hunter Woody.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Amanda Elizabeth Gilstrap and Bobby Eugene Rhodes.
Funeral services were Friday, July 29, in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, with burial following in Liberty Memorial Gardens.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, which is assisting the family.
Gladis Ruth Porter Kircus
Easley — Gladis Ruth Porter Kircus, 91, of Easley, wife of the late James Henry Kircus Jr., passed peacefully Sunday, July 31, 2016, in her residence.
Born in Easley to the late Will Porter and Essie Duncan Porter, Ruth was a member of Cedar Rock Baptist Church for 35 years. She worked for 30 years as owner of Cedar Rock Daycare, and was affectionately known as “Momma Kircus” before retiring in 1985. She enjoyed cooking, gardening and made quilts, specializing in French knots.
In addition to her parents and husband of 60 years, Ruth was preceded in death by her sister, Pauline Ragsdale, and three brothers, Troy Porter, Grady Porter and Lee Porter.
Left to cherish her memory are her two children, son, Tim Kircus and his wife Jennifer, and daughter, Tammy Kircus Trotter; brother, Ray Porter; three grandchildren, Jeremy Kircus, Jamie Trotter and Kristy Trotter Lindsey; nine great-grandchildren, Justin Lindsey, Emily Trotter, Cheyenne Kircus, Ethan Kircus, Charlice Trotter, Thomas Lindsey, Zack Lindsey, Lexus Lindsey and Katie Lindsey.
Funeral service will be held Wednesday, Aug. 3, at 3 p.m. at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, 305 W. Main St., Easley, with the Rev. Wayne Garmon officiating. Burial will follow in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.
Family will receive friends from 1-2:45 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Flowers are accepted at the funeral home, and donations may be made directly to Cedar Rock Baptist Church, 1667 Cedar Rock Road, Easley, SC 29640.
Family is at the home.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinson funeralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Maybeth C. Owens
Easley — Maybeth Cisson Owens, 84, of Elljean Road, wife of the late Thomas Owens, passed away Saturday, July 30, 2016.
Born in Pickens County, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Laura Jane Childress Cisson.
Mrs. Owens was retired from Alice Manufacturing, Foster Plant, and attended Elljean Baptist Church.
Surviving are her sisters, Grace Owens of Easley and Juanita Scruggs of Pickens; a grandson, Lee Boyd; great-grandchildren, Thomas Boyd and Courtney Boyd; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a son, Tommy Boyd and sisters, Jo Cisson and Ann Cisson Looper.
Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 3, at 1 p.m. in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends prior to the service on Wednesday from 11:30 a.m-12:30 p.m. at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Elljean Baptist Church, 605 Elljean Rd., Easley, SC 29640.
The family will be at their respective homes.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Christine Crawford Jameson
Simpsonville — Charlotte Christine Crawford Jameson (July 10, 1919-July 28, 2016), a beloved wife, mother, daughter, grandmother and great-grandmother, was born on July 10, 1919, in Hell Hole Swamp, Berkeley County, South Carolina. Mrs. Jameson was the daughter of Lylete Wilson Crawford of Fairfax and Robert Lee Crawford of Bonneau.
The family moved to Savannah, Ga., in 1928 when her father took a railroad job with Atlantic Coast Line. She graduated from Savannah High School, Armstrong Junior College (Savannah) in 1938 and Winthrop College (University) in 1940 with honors. While at Winthrop, she majored in biology and was a member of several academic honor associations, including the Secondary Education Club, the Sky Sweepers Astronomy Club, Zeta Alpha (honorary Chemistry Fraternity), Forceps and Scalpel (Biology Fraternity honorary member), and was Beta Beta Beta (National Honorary Biology Fraternity) secretary.
She was recruited by principal W.M. Scott to teach biology at Easley High School and taught there until 1945. Later, she taught biology at Independent Presbyterian Day School (1973-78) and St. Andrews on the Marsh (1978-80) in Savannah.
In August 1945, Mrs. Jameson married John Hal Jameson Sr., a physician with the rank of major in the Medical Corps and U.S. Sixth Army during WWII, who after the war started a family medical practice in Easley. During her life in Easley, she was a member of the Easley Ladies Medical Auxiliary, Garden Club, and several other civic organizations. She was a member of the First Methodist Church in Easley and the Christian Church in Savannah.
Mrs. Jameson is survived by two children, Charlotte Jameson Watson and John Hal Jameson Jr., 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a son, Robert Lake (Bobby) Jameson.
Funeral services were held on Sunday, July 31, in the Chapel of Robinson Funeral Home. Interment followed at Westview Cemetery in Easley.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Raymond E. “Chick” Stewart
Easley — Raymond Eugene “Chick” Stewart, 80, of East 2nd Avenue, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2016, at his home.
Born in Pickens County, he was the son of the late Rev. Oscar B. Stewart and Gertie Watt Stewart.
Mr. Stewart was retired from Saco-Lowell. He was a member of the United Wesleyan Church in Easley and was a U.S. Air Force veteran.
Surviving are his wife of 44 years, Sara Lusk Stewart; daughter, Tracy Stewart Harbin of Easley; grandchildren, Jessie Harbin (Victoria), Joshua Harbin (Katie), Jennifer Cromer (Charles) and Lindsey Jones; great grandchildren, Arabella, Caleb, Eliza and John; and a sister, Margaret Edgar (Bob) of Easley.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Georgia Eugenia Stewart Jones, a sister, Mildred Kirk, and a brother, Watt Stewart.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Aug. 2, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Entombment followed in Hillcrest Memorial park Mausoleum.
Flowers will be accepted. The family will be at their respective homes.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Morgan Sheriff
Easley — William Morgan Sheriff Jr., 72, of Saluda Dam Road, husband of Imogene Elrod Sheriff, passed away Friday, July 29, 2016.
Born in Greenville County, he was the son of the late William Morgan Sheriff Sr. and Ruby Ellison Sheriff.
Mr. Sheriff was retired owner of Morgan Sheriff Builders in Easley. After retirement, he was employed at Pickens Middle School. He was a member of Brushy Creek Baptist Church and was a U.S. Navy veteran. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed the outdoors while hunting and fishing.
Surviving in addition to his wife of 50 years are his children, Russell Sheriff (Amanda) of Pickens, and Jonathan Sheriff (Deana) and Kenneth Sheriff (Jennifer), all of Easley; grandchildren, Cale, Audrey, Levi, Brody and Cody; and sisters, June Shults (Bob) of Cosby, Tenn., and Jean Arflin (Orbie) of Anderson.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Aug. 1, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Burial followed in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Flowers will be accepted.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Ernest Reece
Pickens — Ernest Paul Reece, 82, of 628 Hagood Mill Road, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, July 30, 2016, at his residence.
Born in Pickens, he was a son of the late Johnnie Sloane and Eula Christine Ramey Reece.
Ernest loved the outdoors and had a passion for hunting white tail deer and trout fishing. He was a generous man and he would help anyone who needed it. He was known by many and loved by all who knew him.
Surviving are a daughter, Connie Reece of Pickens; two sons, Roger Dale Reece of Pickens and Marty Allen Reece (Teana Jo) of Pickens; a sister, Mozell Reece of Pickens; two brothers, Hoyt Reece of McCormick and A.J. Reece of Travelers Rest; five grandchildren, Candace Nicole Frasier, Bryan Rudolf Hayes, Dillon Scott Reece, Hunter Seth Reece and Bradie Nicole Reece; and four great-grandchildren, Aryana, Lilly and Landon Allshouse and Elsie Hayes. Also surviving are a special friend, Yevonne Holbrooks, and her children, Amanda and Josh Holbrooks, and her granddaughter, Alaina Russell.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Reece will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Flowers will be accepted, or those desiring may make memorials to Gentiva Hospice, 15 Brendan Way, Suite 100, Greenville SC 29615.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Paula A. Rasberry
Easley — Paula Ann Griffin Rasberry, 78, formerly of Meadowood Drive, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2016, at Magnolia Place in Greenville.
Born in Childress, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Elizabeth Estes Griffin.
Mrs. Rasberry was a school bus driver for 30 years. She loved cooking, reading and sewing.
Surviving are her children, Paul Rasberry of Easley and Liza Carpenter of Wichita, Kan.; granddaughter, Kasey Rasberry; and a great-grandson, Messiah Smith.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a son, Barrett Rasberry.
No services will be held.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
COURIER OBITUARIES 7-27-16
Nancy Dalton Robinson
Pickens — Mrs. Nancy Dalton Robinson, 72, of 410 Woodlane Drive, Pickens, loving wife of the late Glenn C. Robinson, passed away Monday, July 18, 2016, at her residence.
Mrs. Robinson was born in Easley on November 26, 1943, to the late Earl Russell Dalton, Sr. and Bertha King Dalton. She graduated from Easley High School in 1962 and worked at Frierson’s Drug Store in downtown Easley for more than 20 years and loved to travel and to read. Nancy was a lifetime member of Jones Avenue Baptist Church.
Mrs. Robinson is survived by a two brothers, Jack Douglas Dalton and Ronald Wayne “Ronnie” Dalton, both of Williamston; a sister, Frances Ruth Robinson of West Union; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by four brothers; William Clyde Dalton, Earl Russell “Foss” Dalton, Jr., Harry Lee Dalton, and Dennis Marion Dalton.
Funeral services were held July 22 at Jones Avenue Baptist Church, with interment following at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Pamela “Pansy” Holcombe
Liberty — Mrs. Pamela Dawn “Pansy” Holcombe, 52, wife of Kevin Reuben Turner, passed away Monday, July 18, 2016, at Cannon Memorial Hospital.
Born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late John Robert and Betty Moore Holcombe, Mrs. Holcombe was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith.
Surviving in addition to her husband of 23 years are a nephew, Jonathan Holcombe, and a niece, Ashley Holcombe. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Holcombe was predeceased by two brothers, Douglas and Dale Holcombe.
Memorial services were held July 23 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Carolyn N. Chism
Clemson — Carolyn Nelms Chism, 72, of 1027 Berkeley Drive, wife of John D. Chism Jr. died Tuesday, July 19, 2016, at Oconee Memorial Hospital.
Born in Anderson County, she was a daughter of the late Hallan and Evelyn Smith Nelms. She was a 1961 graduate of D.W. Daniel High School and a member of East Clemson Baptist Church. She was a loving wife, sister, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed genealogy, sewing and canning.
Surviving in addition to her husband are a son, Joey Chism of Piedmont; daughters, Stephanie Davis (George) of Clemson; Kim Chism-Moore (Art) of Charleston, and Jennifer Chism of Simpsonville; brother, Tommy Nelms of Pendleton; and sister Patricia Travis (Randall) of Anderson; grandchildren, Krystal Cannon, Kelly Rae Cannon and Sabrina Moore.
In addition to her parents she was predeceased by a son, John D. Chism III; and brothers, Horace Nelms, Roger Nelms and Donnie Nelms.
Funeral services were held July 22 in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, with burial following in Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 www.stjud.org.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at the funeral home.
Heywood Eugene Johnson
EASLEYT— Heywood Eugene Johnson, 57, of 254 Hasting Circle, Easley, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Surviving are his mother Ollie Lee Williams, of the home; sons, Jonathan and Josh Gamble, and brother, Leroy Williams Jr. of Piedmont.
Services were held July 11 at The Luther Johnson Funeral Home, 301 E. Main St., Liberty. Interment was in Westview Cemetery.
Emma Lucille Ferguson Cade
EASLEY — Mrs. Emma Lucille Ferguson Cade, 91, wife of the late Henry Cade of 413 Grisby Ave., Easley, SC passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 12, 2016, at her residence.
Surviving are her daughters, Eunice Bowens, Jane Walker and Dorothy Cade; seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Services were held July 16 at the New Hope Baptist Church in Liberty, officiated by the Rev. Carolyn Owens.
The family has selected The Luther Johnson Funeral Home, 301 E. Main St. Liberty to assist them with the homegoing celebration.
hattie owens
Easley — Mrs. Hattie Owens, 74, formerly of Easley, transitioned from her earthly residence at Quillen Manor, Fountain Inn, to her heavenly home on July 13, 2016.
She was a member of the New Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, where she served as secretary of the Sunday school, member of the sanctuary choir, past director of the youth and a member of the missionary society.
Survivors include a daughter, Wanda Pendergrass; a brother, Johnny Byrd; and sisters Delores West and Margaret Jones; four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Services were held July 17 at the New Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, followed by interment in the church cemetery.
The family has selected The Luther Johnson Funeral Home, 301 E. Main St., Liberty to assist with these services.
Mary Gene Schoenbeck
Easley — Mrs. Mary Gene Schoenbeck, 70, of 145 Spirit Mountain Lane, Easley, loving wife of Dana Gaillard, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2016, at the Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.
Mary Gene was born in Chicago, Ill., on July 15, 1946, to the late Edward and Angelina Anatra Martino. She worked as an administrative assistant and was of the Catholic faith. She loved dancing and music.
Mary Gene loved her family and was a wonderful and devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She loved being a homemaker and was an excellent cook. She had a generous and giving spirit that was upheld with a desire to help anyone in need.
In addition to her loving husband of 11 years, Mrs. Schoenbeck is survived by a daughter, Laura Rogers (Todd) of Peoria, Ariz.; a stepson, Tyler Gaillard of Greenville; a brother, Eugene Martino (Barbara) of Chicago, Ill.; two grandchildren, Mikayla and Cade Rogers; and a step-granddaughter, Anna Gaillard.
The family will host a memorial service in Arizona at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made either to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research, P. O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309; or to the Habitat for Humanity of Central Arizona, P.O. Box 20186, Phoenix, AZ 85036.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com. Robinson Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Marian E. Evatt
Central — Marian Evans Evatt, 69, of 408 Patterson Street, wife for 50 years of Marvin E. Evatt Sr. died Saturday, July 23, 2016, at the Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.
Born in Richland County she was a daughter of the late Freddie Evans and Georgia Lea Geddings Davis. She was a 1966 graduate of T.L. Hanna High School and retired after 27 years as the administrative assistant with the V.P. for Student Affairs at Clemson University. She was past president of the Central Garden Club, was past chairman of the Central Railroad Festival and a member of Norris First Baptist Church, where she was a member of the Women’s Circle and volunteered with the food pantry.
Surviving in addition to her husband, are a son, Marvin E. Evatt Jr. of the home; daughter, Melanie (Gregg) Branham of Easley; brothers, Buddy Davis of Rutherfordton, N.C., and Robert Davis of Anderson; sisters, Malea Merck of Gray Court, and Juanita Merk, Bertha Vickery and Kathy Cisson, all of Anderson; and grandchildren, Benjamin Branham and Lydia Branham.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her stepfather, Adger Davis; and sister, Freda Mae Williams.
Funeral services were held July 26 at Norris First Baptist Church, with Rev. Royce Addis officiating, with burial following in Sharon United Methodist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
HELEN AIKEN
PICKENS — Helen Margie Davis Aiken, 78, of Pickens, passed away on Thursday, July 21, 2016, at Greenville Health System.
Born on March 12, 1938, in Oconee County, she was the daughter of the late Lawton and Floy Lena Kelly Davis. Mrs. Aiken was a member of Martin Grove Wesleyan Church in Pickens.
Surviving are her son, Chris Aiken (Thelma); two sisters, Mary Owen and Inez Crowe (Rocky); two brothers, Virgil Davis and Leo Davis; and four grandchildren, Christopher, Chavis, Kelcie and Blake Aiken.
Along with her parents, Mrs. Aiken was predeceased by two daughters, Ann Wilson and Mot Hendricks; and one brother, Clifton Davis.
Funeral services were held July 25 at Martin Grove Wesleyan Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Danny “D” Ray Lewis
PELZER — Danny “D” Ray Lewis, 55, died Tuesday, July 19, 2016.
He was born Oct. 29, 1960, in Clinton. D attended Clinton schools. He loved fishing, spending time with family and friends, sitting outside in his chair under a shade tree, and playing poker. He worked for Torrington Company in Clinton for 15 years as a machine operator.
D is survived by his sisters, Deborah Roberts of Pelzer and Patricia Lell of Honea Path; brothers, Daniel Lewis of Iva and Vince Lell of Georgia; nieces and nephews, Matthew and Tina Roberts, Jason, Kevin and Sylvia (Michael) Roberts and Stephanie Cordell; many great-nieces and nephews, whom all love him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Lell Lewis, brother, Richard Lewis Jr., stepfather, Richard Lewis Sr., and wife, Pam Lewis.
D will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
No services are being held at this time.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Courier Obituaries 7-20-16
The Pickens County Courier runs in-county obituaries free of charge. Pictures can be included for an additional charge of $25. Please ask your funeral home about this service. All obituaries must come from funeral home.
Courier Obituaries 7-13-16
Dee Carl LaFoy
Pickens — Dee C. LaFoy Jr. 70, of Pickens, went to be with his heavenly Father on June 29, 2016.
Born in Easley to the late Dee C. and Melonee LaFoy, Dee worked at the Daniel Building for 13 years as the chief of maintenance. He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church and the Senior Saints Sunday School Class in Pickens. He loved racing, NASCAR and fishing.
Surviving are his sons, Cameron LaFoy (Kate) of Atlanta and Richard LaFoy (Teresa) of Easley; his daughter, Tina LaFoy of Pickens; his girlfriend, Barbara Turner of Liberty; three grandchildren, Emily LaFoy, Kaylynn LaFoy and Aaron LaFoy; sisters Emogene Daniels of Greenville and Maxine Wood (Roger) of Mooresville, N.C.; sister-in-law Marie LaFoy of Greenville; and former wife and friend Drema LaFoy. He also had many nieces and nephews all over the U.S.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents, a brother, Charles LaFoy, and his best friend in life, Richard Daniels.
Services were held July 2 in All Saints Hall at Pickens Presbyterian Church.
Wanda Lee Edens
Easley — Mrs. Wanda Lee Edens, 78, of 806 Brushy Creek Road, Easley, loving wife of the late James William Edens, passed away Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at the McCall Hospice House in Simpsonville.
Mrs. Edens was born in Pickens County on December 12, 1937, to the late Ernest and Alma Suddeth Stokes. She spent her life as a homemaker, taking care of her family and she was of the Baptist Faith.
Mrs. Edens is survived by two daughters, Cindy Hood (Steve) and Wanda Patterson, both of Easley; three brothers, Deryl Stokes, Joe Stokes and Ricky Stokes, all of Easley; and two sisters, Betty O’Shields of Liberty and Jean Taylor of Easley. She is also survived by six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Karen Lowe; a brother, John “Buck” Stokes; and a sister, Pearl Nalley.
Graveside funeral Services were held July 9 at Robinson Memorial Gardens in Easley.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Raymond C. Lockaby
Easley — Raymond Carl Lockaby, 87, of Brushy Creek Road, husband of Selena Brown Lockaby, passed away Saturday, July 2, 2016, at his home.
Born in Anderson County, he was the son of the late Carl and Kate Black Lockaby.
Mr. Lockaby was retired from Swirl Inc. in Easley and was a member of Corinth Baptist Church, where he was a member of the Friendly Neighbors group. His love of the outdoors included hunting, fishing, gardening and especially growing daylillies.
In addition to his wife of 67 years, he is survived by his daughters, Vicki Smith (Tommy) of Easley and Phylis Harville (Kevin) of Martinez, Ga.; grandchildren, Jill Smith of Easley and Gage Smith (Marti) of Durham, N.C.; sisters, Linda Casey and Helen Hamlin (Milton); and brothers, Bill Lockaby (Lorene) and Jack Lockaby (Katie).
Funeral services were held July 5 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown with burial following in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Flowers are accepted, or memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 508 Hampton St., Suite 200, Columbia, SC 29201.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Jimmy “Jim Bob” Whitaker
Liberty — Jimmy Ray “Jim Bob” Whitaker, 43, of 304 Spring Valley Road, died Monday, July 4, 2016, at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville.
Born in Seneca, he was a son of Billy Wayne and Linda Finley Whitaker of the home. Jimmy was loved by everyone who met him, and he enjoyed working with Better Skills. He was a longtime member of Winding Creek Baptist Church and an avid Clemson fan.
Surviving in addition to his parents are a sister, Sheryl Shepard (David) of Liberty; a brother, John Wayne Whitaker (B.C.); several beloved nieces and nephews, Kendra, Hope, Brandon, Danielle, Haylee and Mya; and a very special aunt, Margaret “Girlou” Whitaker.
He was predeceased by a nephew, Malachi Wayne Whitaker.
Funeral services to honor Jimmy’s life were held July 8 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Liberty Memorial Gardens.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
Ouida M. Blackburn
Central — Ouida Maw Blackburn of Central, widow of Enoch C. Blackburn, died Tuesday, July 5, 2016, at her home.
Born in Young Harris, Ga., she was the daughter of the late Richard and Mary Elizabeth Swanson Maw. Ouida was a graduate of Central High School and a retired employee with Gerrish Milliken in Pendleton. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Central and the Gleeners Sunday School Class.
Surviving are daughter Carol Sipes of Central; sisters, Betty Jones of Greenville and Wilma Brown of Six Mile; grandsons, Maxie Sipes of Pelzer, Richie Sipes of Central; Jason Blackburn of Clinton, and Zack Blackburn of Clemson; great-grandchildren, Corey Sipes, Gabriel and Gabrielle Sipes; and a special friend, Roy Merck of Liberty.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, Harry Blackburn; brother, Earl Maw Sr.; sister, Edith Brooks; and a great-granddaughter, Taylor Sipes.
Funeral services were held July 8 in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, with burial following in Mt. Zion Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Whitten Center Parents Club 28373 Highway 76 E Clinton, SC 29325.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at the funeral home in Central.
John Willis Kennelly Jr
Clemson — John Willis Kenelly Jr., 80, of Clemson and widower of Charmaine Voss Kenelly, died Sunday, July 3, 2016, at his home in Clemson Downs.
Born in Bogalusa, La., he was a son of the late John Willis and Erma Whittom Kenelly.
He was a graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University (1957), earned his master’s from University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and his Ph.D. from University of Florida (Gainesville). He was a retired professor emeritus of the math department at Clemson University. He had a very long and distinguished career in the mathematics and science field having been the chief reader for Educational Testing Services, a past treasurer of the Mathematics Association of America and past president of International Math Olympiad. In addition to working with organizations that dealt with the SAT and ACT, he worked also in the Advanced Placement program. He also authored and co-authored a number of textbooks in the math and science field. John was a devoted fan and supporter of the Southeastern Alumni Association.
John was a member of the Clemson Rotary Club, where he was active in the Paul Harris Fellow program. He also served on the board of Hospice of the Foothills and was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Clemson.
Mr. Kenelly is survived by a daughter, Deidre Kenelly of Travelers Rest; son, John Trent (Lynn Sparks) Kenelly of Anderson; sisters, Nell K. Ovre of Vacaville, Calif., and Mary K Ward of Spartanburg; grandchildren PFC Morgan Kenelly of New London, Conn., and Gabrielle Kenelly and John Aidan Kenelly of Anderson. He is also survived by his companion, Patricia F. Vernon of Denham Springs, La.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by brothers, Patrick and Orville Kenelly.
Memorial services were held July 9 at the Clemson Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Private interment was held at the Woodland Cemetery on the Clemson University campus.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to GHS Hospice of the Foothills, 298 Memorial Drive, Seneca, SC 29676 or to the Kenelly Voss Endowment or to Kenelly Endowment, P.O. Box 1889, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29633 or Southeastern Louisiana University Foundation, SLU 10293 Hammond, LA 70402. A list of his various accomplishments and awards may be found at http://www.clemson.edu/science/departments/mathematical-sciences/about/history/kenelly.html.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
Sydney Charles Simmons
Pickens — Sydney Charles Simmons, 55, a lifelong resident of Pickens, passed away on June 30, 2016, at Hilton Head Hospital in Hilton Head.
Sydney was born on Feb. 3, 1961, in Easley to Emma Jean Gilstrap Simmons Beard and the late Charles Edward Simmons.
Sydney was a graduate of Pickens High School in 1979 and Clemson University in 1983, where he was a member of the Marching Tiger Band. He passed the certified public accountant exam in one sitting and rose to senior manager at KPMG in Greenville until he medically retired. Sydney defied the odds living 25 years after brain cancer. He bravely and optimistically moved forward, marrying Cathlin and together raising two children who were the light of his life. Again four years ago, Sydney with a competitive spirit overcame a pulmonary embolism which caused cardiac arrest. His path was tougher, but he worked hard to recover; he and his family cherished the extra time they had together traveling, and watching and attending sports events.
Sydney is survived by his son, Charles Edward Simmons of Pickens; daughter, Jennifer Anne Simmons of Piedmont; brother, Samuel Simmons (Kristi) of Pickens; and sister, Susan Simmons (Russell Chambers) of Chapin and Hilton Head. He is also survived by his mother, Jean Beard, and stepfather, Rev. Arnold M. Beard, and the Beard siblings: Rena (Phil) Quist, Brian (Laura) Beard and Jena (Richard) Edwards, all of Pickens County.
Services were held in the sanctuary of Pickens View Wesleyan Church July 10, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Pickens High School Class of 1979 graduates and the Men of Flame, along with accounting professionals who worked with Sydney or his sister, Susan, were honorary pall bearers.
The family suggests for those who desire memorials in lieu of flowers to the Sydney C. Simmons Scholarship Fund for a deserving Clemson University Marching Band student. Sydney regretted that due to financial needs, he was only able to participate in the band one year and hopes this scholarship will allow others to enjoy the Tiger Band experience. Tax-deductible contributions can be mailed to Sun Trust Bank, 210 W. Cedar Rock St., Pickens, SC 29671 or deposited in person at any SunTrust branch.
Sauls Funeral Home of Bluffton and Dillard Memorial Funeral Home are assisting the family.
Rosalie B. Gillespie
Pickens — Rosalie Bolding Gillespie, 94, widow of James Paul Gillespie, passed from this life on Saturday, July 9, 2016, at Majesty Health and Rehab in Easley.
Mrs. Gillespie was born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late Perry Clyde and Hattie Myrlee Rogers Bolding. She was retired from Sangamo Electric and she was a member of Prater’s Creek Baptist Church.
Survivors include her daughter, Nancy Brown (Carroll) of Birmingham, Ala., three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, a sister, Nell B. Hayes (Rudy) of Pickens and close friend and caregiver, Melanie Bentley of Pickens.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Gillespie was predeceased by her sons, William Fred Gillespie and Morris C. Gillespie and sister, Lucille B. Martin.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, July 13, at Dillard Funeral Home from 2:30-3:30 p.m., with funeral services following at 3:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens. Family members are at their respective homes.
Memorial may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society or to Praters Creek Baptist Church. A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Norma Jenkins Austin
Easley — Norma Jenkins Austin, 78, of Easley, wife of the late William C. Austin, passed peacefully Sunday, July 10, 2016, at Capstone Health and Rehab in Easley.
Born in Atlanta, Ga., to the late John Thomas Jenkins and Elsie Lillian Giles Jenkins, Norma was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to her parents and loving husband of 57 years, Norma was preceded in death by her brother, Norman Jenkins, and sisters, Barbara Keith and Johnny Mae Davis.
Left to cherish her memory are her son, James Austin of Lyman; daughters, Susan Bradley of Easley, Ashley Austin of Douglasville, Ga., Jennifer Austin, and Sherry Gwinn both of Lyman; brother, Joe Jenkins of Trenton, N.C.; sisters, Melba Willis of Newell, Ala., Sybil Camp of Dallas, Ga., and Beverly Page of Stark, Fla.; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Friday, July 15, at noon at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road, 1425 Powdersville Road, Easley, led by chaplain Jim Frost. Burial will follow in Robinson Memorial Gardens.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Brittany Nicole Norris
LIBERTY — Brittany Nicole Norris, 25, of Liberty, passed away July 2, 2016.
She was born Feb. 26, 1991, the daughter of James Norris and Michelle Gregory and sister of Jessica Norris and Jacob Gregory. She leaves behind her daughter, Trinity Major, and son, Zymeir Major.
She was predeceased by her grandfather, Mack Gregory, grandmother, Pauline Norris, uncle, Steven Norris, and great-grandmother, Virginia Childers.
Services will be held at Bethel Church of God, 420 Old Brickyard Road in Pelzer, at noon July 16, followed by a dinner. Please bring a dish if you can.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to James Norris or Michelle Gregory.
Leeann B. Rutz
Easley — LeeAnn B. Rutz, 55, born April 7, 1961, passed away Friday, June 17, 2016, at Baptist Easley.
Mrs Rutz is survived by her husband, Rickie W. Rutz Sr. of the home.
Born in Orlando, Fla., she was the daughter of the late P. P. Carl “Buck” and Jeanette Carey Burkhalter.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Rutz is survived by four children, Jennifer J. Gregg of Easley, J. Jacob Nabors of Liberty, Rickie W. Rutz Jr. of Central and Brandie R. Rutz of Easley; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters, Donna Ross of Six Mile and Sylvia “Poochie” Fuller of Easley; and a brother, Michael C. Burkhalter of Easley.
She was also predeceased by a brother, Ronald Burkhalter.
Mrs. Rutz was a member of Smith Grove Baptist Church. She will be missed and was loved by many.
Courier Obituaries 7-6-16
JIMMY C. ROSS
SIX MILE — Jimmy C. Ross, 78, of Six Mile, went to be with the Lord on Monday, June 27, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital with his family at his side.
Jimmy was born on Aug. 6, 1937, to the late James Earl and Essie Blackston Ross.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty Mae McJunkin Ross; his sons, David and Ralph Ross of the home; and his daughter, Annette Pelfrey (Frankie) of Easley. He is also survived by his grandchildren Crystal Ross of Pickens, Bradley Ross (Elizabeth) of Columbia, Hannah, Heather and Meagan Pelfrey of Easley, Emily Moore (Kenneth) of Six Mile and Joshua Ross of Pickens and his pride and joy, great-granddaughter Tayla Church.
He worked in textiles all of his life until his retirement in 1999.
He is the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents and 14 siblings, he was preceded in death by his son, Keith Ross.
Funeral services were held July 1 at King’s Grove Baptist Church in Central.
NANCY DAVIS
Easley — Nancy Sue Gillespie Davis, 84, of 112 Charlton Circle, passed away peacefully Monday, June 27, 2016, at The Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.
Born in Anderson, she was the wife of Lindsay James Davis of the home and a daughter of the late Lonnie Calhoun and Lessie Lee Gore Gillespie. She and her husband owned and operated Sue’s Pet Grooming and Old Market Antiques in Pickens. She was a member of Easley Church of God.
Surviving in addition to her husband are two daughters, Janet Dunn of Piedmont and Beverly Derrick of Easley; four sisters; one brother; nine grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a daughter, Barbara White; one sister; and three brothers.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Davis were held July 1 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Westview Cemetery in Liberty. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
EARL STANLEY MAYER
EASLEY — Earl Stanley Mayer entered this world in the early morning hours of July 18, 1927, in a very hungry state, which remained a priority of his all his life. He would tell me that when he stopped eating, I’d better start digging.
After perhaps 12 years of vascular dementia, he finally went peacefully to his rest Wednesday, June 22, 2016.
His dementia never reached the violent stage, and he always remained the loving husband and Daddy to our children: Linda Hartman (Gary), Kathy Skilton (Gary), Ken Mayer (Esther) and our deceased son Jeffery (Diane), who died of melanoma in 2013. He loved his five grandsons and five granddaughters, along with two great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter.
Earl was in the military at the end of World War II, which he took advantage of to become a private pilot. He spent many hours in the air, including flying a rescue airplane for the Wisconsin Civil Air Patrol. Flying remained a love of his until his health deteriorated and made private flying impossible. Four months after his marriage to Doris Lyberg, Sept. 11, 1949, while working in a government TB hospital in Waukesha, Wis., he contracted TB and served 14 months in that hospital as a patient, becoming a Disabled American Veteran. Later, he was chosen to take a drafting course at Fairbanks Morse in Beloit, Wis., which led eventually to his becoming a machine designer after he and Doris moved from Wisconsin to Greenville in 1978. Earl loved the southern weather, where he could be out all year and hike the nearby mountains. Music was a great love of Earl’s, and he was privileged to sing for many weddings, funerals and church services. He later added whistling to his repertoire and was in demand many times. He and Doris, who is a pianist and organist, taught their children to sing, and all six of them provided music many times.
Earl died in the hope of the resurrection, where he expects to see Jesus and all our loved ones soon.
The family wants to thank St. Francis Hospice for their excellent care and concern, our wonderful neighbors and friends, and the East North Street Seventh-day Adventist Church family for their love and kindness. His memorial service will be conducted July 9 at 3 p.m. at the church.
Westville Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Courier Obituaries 6-29-16
Sam C. Dunn
Pickens — Sam C. Dunn, 89, of East Cedar Rock Street, husband of the late Martha Hinton Dunn, passed away Monday, June 27, 2016, at his home.
Born in Fremont, Va., he was the son of the late Harvey and Lela Burns Dunn.
Mr. Dunn was the owner and operator of S.C. Dunn Lumber Company in Pickens. He was a member of Pickens First Baptist Church and was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII. He was also a member of the first graduating class of the National Hardwood Lumber Association Grading School in Memphis, Tenn.
Surviving are his sons, Chip Dunn and his wife, Sheila, and Joe Dunn and his wife, Nicki, all of Pickens; grandchildren, Jennifer Dunn, Ashley Clardy, Lawson Dunn, Logan Tweito and Nolan Dunn; great-grandchildren, Britain Dunn, Eli Groover, Noah Groover, Sayler Clardy and Layken Clardy.
Mr. Dunn was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. Dunn was predeceased by brothers, Paul, Gene, Harvey Jr. and Jack Dunn.
Graveside services were held on June 28 at Sunrise Cemetery in Pickens, with the Rev. Dr. Fred Stone officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the building fund of Pickens First Baptist Church, 406 E. Main St., Pickens, SC 29671.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Jeanette Burkhalter
Easley — Jeanette Carey Burkhalter, 80, of 703 W. Fifth Ave., passed away on Wednesday, June 22, 2016, at her home surrounded by her family.
Born in Anderson she was the widow of Carl Burkhalter and a daughter of the late James Dirk and Evie Pauline Osborne Carey.
She retired from Ohio Gear and was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church.
Surviving are two daughters, Donna Kay Ross of Six Mile and Poochie Fuller of Easley; a son, Michael Burkhalter of Easley; a sister, Doris Carey of Easley; three brothers, James Carey of Easley, Larry Carey of Orlando, Fla., and Jimmy Carey of Anderson; also surviving are numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Lee Ann Rutz, and a son, Ronald Burkhalter.
Funeral services to honor Jeanette were held June 24 at Rock Springs Baptist Church, with burial following at Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Jimmy W. Singleton
PICKENS — Jimmy Wayne Singleton, 79, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, June 20, 2016, at Cottingham Hospice House.
Born on Feb. 18, 1937, in Greenville County, he was the son of the late Judge and Vera Sims Singleton.
Jimmy Singleton had a successful career in football, starting with his years as a student at Pickens High School. He helped lead the Blue Flame through numerous winning seasons, including one state championship. After Pickens, he was recruited into Clemson, where he was on the 1956 Orange Bowl team. Mr. Singleton was drafted into the U.S. Navy, where he played both football and baseball. He graduated from Clemson and started working for the family business, Pickens Oil Company, until his retirement.
Mr. Singleton was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed wild game hunting, fishing and golf. He loved spending time with his family and was a standing member of Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church.
Surviving are his two daughters, Leslie Singleton Dalton (Russ) and Anna Singleton Norton (Keith); a son-in-law, Matthew Brown; two brothers, Billy Singleton and Dickie Singleton (Helen); three grandchildren, Madeline Dalton Smith (Jacob), Anna Margaret Dalton and James Reid Norton, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, Mr. Singleton was also predeceased by a daughter, Carrie Margaret Singleton, a brother, Kenneth Singleton, and the mother of his children, Barbara Dean Singleton.
Funeral services were held June 25 at Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Cottingham Hospice House, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Dwight Kelly
Six Mile — Dwight Ernest Kelly, 77, of 1261 Liberty Highway, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 14, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Pickens, he was the widower of Nancy Bryant Kelly and a son of the late William E. and Gladys Dorsey Kelly. He was a U.S. Army veteran and was retired from Pickens Machine Works. He was a member of Fairview Baptist Church.
Surviving are two sons, Randy Kelly (Julie) of Six Mile and Ron Kelly (Larissa) of Easley; four sisters, Betty Holliday of Seneca, Mildred Holliday of Six Mile, Belinda Finley of Williamston and Joan Smith of Pickens; a brother, Wallace Kelly of Pendleton; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Ricky Kelly.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Kelly were held June 16 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Liberty Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to Fairview Baptist Church, c/o Rev. Billy Ray Merck, 766 Kelly Mill Road Six Mile, SC 29682. The family will be at the home. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com.
Belva H. Bennett
Clemson — Belva Christine Henderson Bennett, 80, of Clemson, died Friday, June 24, 2016, at her home.
Born in Clemson, she was a daughter of the late Warren and Zelma Richey Henderson. Belva was a 1953 graduate of Calhoun-Clemson High School and worked in the athletic department at Clemson University for 40 years. She was a member of Pendleton United Methodist Church.
Surviving are two daughters, Lisa DeAngelis (John), and children, Lydia and John Warren DeAngelis, of Virginia Beach, Va., and Rene’ Bennett (Jonathan) Bedenbaugh, and children, Joshua and Matthew Bedenbaugh of Jacksonville, Fla.; brother, Benny Henderson of Seneca; sisters, Margaret Gambrell of Pendleton, Mary Jean Lehmann of Seneca, Elaine Hunter of Clemson and Dorothy Bradley of Pendleton.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Barbara Wade.
Funeral services were held June 27 at Pendleton United Methodist Church, with Rev. Mel Arant officiating.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at the funeral home.
Harold Lahr
Liberty — Harold John Lahr, 68, of 216 Denmark Drive, passed away peacefully Thursday, June 16, 2016, at his residence.
Born in Chester, Pa., he was the husband of Barbara Wood Lahr. He was a son of Emily Irene Spaide Peacock of Waynesville, N.J., and the late Howard James Lahr. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After retiring from the Army, he worked at several places, but most recently at Lowe’s. He had a passion for airplanes and was a member of New Spring Church in Anderson.
Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are two daughters, Michelle Lahr and Theresa Wood (Lee McGaha); a son, Wayne Wood; a sister, Kathy McAndrew; two brothers, Donnie and Kenny Lahr; five granddaughters, Jessica Tarone, Jessie McGaha, Rebecca Tarone, Tatum Wood and BriAnna Wood; and three great-grandchildren, Sofia, Nova-Leigh and Brooklynn. In addition to his father he was predeceased by a sister, Linda Cox.
Services were held June 19 at Liberty Mortuary. Private interment will be held at a later date at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veteran’s Cemetery.
Floral arrangements are appreciated, but memorials may also be made to the American Cancer Society at P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123.
Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services are handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
Landry Brynn Roper
Easley — Landry Brynn Roper, infant daughter of Samuel Craig and Brittany Robinson Roper, went to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, June 25, 2016.
Surviving, in addition to her parents, are two brothers, Judson and Beckett Roper of the home; a sister, Remi Roper of the home; maternal grandparents, Frankie and Kelley Robinson of Easley; paternal grandparents, Sammy and Toni Roper of Easley; great-grandparents, Larry and Aileen Brooks, and Jimmy and Jane Robinson, all of Easley; and an aunt and uncle, Brooks and Blair Robinson of Easley.
Graveside services were held June 28 at the Nine Forks Baptist Church cemetery, with Rev. Brian Stokes officiating.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Anne A. Furman
Table Rock — Anne Aldrich Furman, 72, wife of the late Thomas DeSaussure Furman Sr., passed away Thursday, June 23, 2016.
A gathering honoring Anne will be held at Solitude Point. Details to follow.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
CSM (Ret.) Jack G. Black Sr.
Pickens — CSM (Ret.) Jack Goldsmith Black Sr., 87, husband of Della Garrett Black, passed from this life on Saturday, June 25, 2016, at Regency Hospital in Greenville.
Jack was born in Pickens County, son of the late Joseph Tribble and Sara Goldsmith Black. Born with a servant’s heart, Jack was always active in his community. He retired from the City of Pickens as superintendent of streets and sanitation and served as a volunteer firefighter with the Pickens Fire Department for 52 years. Jack served on Pickens City Council for 13 years and served as a bailiff in the county court system for 16 years, and formerly served as a state constable. A true people person, Jack never met a stranger and was always willing to help.
A member of Pickens Presbyterian Church, Jack served as an elder, deacon and Sunday school duperintendent. He was a member of Keowee Lodge #79 A.F.M. and the Hejaz Temple of The Shrine in Greenville.
Jack served more than 40 years and was retired as Command Sergeant Major of the S.C. Army National Guard. He served as Command Sergeant Major for South Carolina from 1985 to 1986 and he was a member of the American Legion Post 51 in Pickens. He was one of the first Boy Scouts in Troop 51 in Pickens. Among his many honors, he was inducted to the S.C. National Guard Hall of Fame in 2006 and was one of five winners of the “I Fan the Flame Award” awarded by the City of Pickens. He was also recipient of Duke Energy “Citizenship and Service Award” in 2008.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Della Garrett Black, sons, Jack G. Black Jr. and his wife Mary of Columbia and Jeffrey G. Black and his fiancée Lee Clawson of Pickens, grandchildren, Evan Black of Atlanta and Alison “Ali” Black of Columbia.
In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his siblings, Sara Aida McGovern, Frances Hastings, Bill Black, Caroline Kee, June Kroeg, Margaret Martin, Ann Brown and Betty Valley Ellison.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, June 29, at Dillard Funeral Home from 9:30-11 a.m., with funeral services following in the funeral home chapel at 11 a.m. Burial with military honors will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to Pickens Presbyterian Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 834, Pickens, SC 29671 or to The Pickens Senior Center, 129 Schoolhouse St., Pickens, SC 29671.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Courier Obituaries 6-22-16
John Wheatley
Easley — John Wheatley, 86, of Easley, husband of Esther Harwood Wheatley, passed away Friday, June 10, 2016, at Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.
Born April 18, 1930, in Dordan, England, to the late Jack and Jane Hitchman Wheatley, John was a model train enthusiast and a golf fanatic.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his half-brother, Wilfred “Wilf” Hitchman and his wife, Edith Hitchman.
Mr. Wheatley is survived by his wife of 61 years and a niece, Anne Ball (Andrew).
A memorial service will be held Monday, June 27, at 11 a.m. at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 1200 Powdersville Road, Easley, SC 29642.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Frances A. Hendricks
Central — Mrs. Frances Arnold Hendricks, 91, wife of the late James Alton Hendricks, passed away Tuesday, June 14, 2016, at Manna Health and Rehab, Pickens.
Born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late William Clayton and Ethel Henson Arnold, Mrs. Hendricks was a homemaker and a member of Kings Grove Baptist Church.
Surviving are three sons, Rev. Arnold Becker (Beth) of Boiling Springs, Rick Hendricks (Diane) and Ronnie Hendricks (Donna), all of Central; two daughters, Judy Taylor (Johnny) of Seneca and Debbie Bell (Tommy) of Central; two brothers, W.C. Arnold of Charleston and Harold Arnold of McCormick; three sisters, Nellie Sue Breazeale of California, Shirley McSwain of North Carolina and Martha Jean Moore of Central; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Hendricks was predeceased by a sister, Mildred Murray; and two grandchildren.
Funeral services were held June 16 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with Reverends Arnold Becker and Harold Sanders officiating and burial following in the Kings Grove Baptist Church cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the cemetery fund of Kings Grove Baptist Church, 1335 Old Seneca Road, Central, SC 29630.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Carol Jean Shelton Stiwinter
Easley — Carol Jean Shelton Stiwinter, 71, of Easley, died Wednesday, June 14, 2016, at her residence.
Carol was born Sept. 12, 1944, in Jackson County, N.C., a daughter of the late Harry Matthews and Christine McCracken. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Asberry Stiwinter, who died Dec. 19, 2014.
Carol was raised by her grandparents, Elbert and Millie Shelton. She was a homemaker and was a member of Pendleton Street Baptist Church in Easley.
She is survived by her two sons, Neal Stiwinter (Trisha) and Rusty Stiwinter (Tammy), all of Easley; five grandchildren, Jeff, Jesse, Tayler, Ashley and Morgan Stiwinter; four sisters, Patsy Henderson (Carl) of Chesnee, Peggy Chisum (Jimmy) of Piedmont, Judy Parrish of Spartanburg and Kay Hughes (Clyde) of Easley.
Her funeral service was held June 17 at Pendleton Street Baptist Church in Easley, conducted by the Rev. Allen Williams and the Rev. Johnnie Norris. Burial followed in Stewart Cemetery in Cullowhee, N.C.
An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.
Hazel Day Nabors
Easley — Hazel Day Nabors, 78, formerly of Little Pond Road, passed away Saturday, June 18, 2016, at Brookdale in Easley.
Born on Jan. 31, 1938, in Pickens County, she was the daughter of the late Ilor and Catherine Hughes Day.
Mrs. Nabors was retired from Ryobi in Pickens and was a member of Cross Roads Baptist Church.
Surviving are her husband of 44 years, Gary Ray Nabors of Easley; brother, John Frank Day (Janie) of Pickens; a niece and two nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Clara McWhorter.
Funeral services were held June 20 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following in Cross Roads Baptist Church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cross Roads Baptist Church, 160 Cross Roads Church Road, Easley, SC 29640.
Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Amanda Lucille Bagwell Hintson
Easley — Amanda Lucille Bagwell Hintson, 87, of Easley, wife of Clifford F. Hintson Sr., received her wings Thursday, June 16, 2016, at McCall Hospice House in Simpsonville.
She departed on her flight at 2 p.m. and ascended peacefully as her husband ended a prayer to God for her and she was escorted by a host of Angels to be with her family who were waiting for her with open arms.
Born in Greenville County to the late Eddie L. and Annie Worley Bagwell, she was a member of Mt. Airy Baptist Church in Easley for 10 years. She loved people and animals. Amanda and her husband owned and operated Amanda’s Bird Center for 30 years before retiring in 1998.
In addition to her parents, Amanda was preceded in death by her brother, Joseph D. Bagwell, and sister, Frances Haley.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband of 63 years; son, Cliff Hintson Jr. (Maryanne) of Easley; grandson, Jamie Hintson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A private memorial service was held Saturday, June 18, at the residence, with the Rev. Dr. Keith Shorter officiating.
Her husband would like to express his appreciation for your prayers and support. Amazed by His Grace, AmClif.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to Mt. Airy Baptist Church, 210 Mt. Airy Church Road, Easley, SC 29642.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Thomas Scott Pilgrim
Liberty — Thomas Scott Pilgrim, 51, of Liberty, entered into eternal rest on Monday, June 13, 2016.
He was the son of the late Wayne and Bernice Pilgrim.
He was a mechanic by trade; and despite being paralyzed half of his life, he was a very loving father and Popa.
He is survived by his daughter, Kayla Cox-Pilgrim, of the home; his stepdaughter, Jessica Cox of Georgia; his two grandchildren, Trinity and Jada; his brothers, Charles “CW” and Randell Pilgrim, both of Liberty; as well as several young people that called him Pops.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Melinda Davis. The family would like to give a special thank you to Lynn Kay, who was his home health care nurse for almost six years.
Graveside services were held June 20 in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.
Bertha Townes
Pickens — Mrs. Bertha Grant Townes, widow of James Fletcher Townes, died peacefully at her home on Friday, June 17, 2016.
Mrs. Townes was born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late Julius Walter and Addie Hudson Grant. She was a faithful member of Bethany Church of God for 65 years, where she served as church clerk for 34 years, formerly taught Sunday school and sang in the choir and with the Townes Family Singers. Mrs. Townes was a member of the Ladies Sunday School Class.
Survivors include her four children, James Fletcher Townes Jr. of the home, Joyce (Rev. Carl McConnell) of Dacusville, Dianne Townes of Pickens and Debra Swaney of Pickens. Also surviving are four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by brothers, Cecil H. Grant and Joseph W. Grant, both of Pickens, and four sisters, Dorothy Dodgens, Elizabeth Eades, and Katie and Lou Grant, all of Pickens.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Townes was preceded in death by brothers, Rev. Bill Grant, Rev. Donald Grant and sisters, Bernice Couch, Veda Mae Townes and Inez Grant.
Services were held June 20 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel in Pickens, with the Rev. Roger Stephens officiating and a eulogy by Mr. Lynn Townes, and burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and gardens, with the Rev. Carl McConnell officiating.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Chip Reeves
Pickens — Arnold Edward “Chip” Reeves Jr., 71, husband of the late Laura Marie Devine Reeves, passed from this life on Tuesday, June 14, 2016.
Chip was born in Pickens County, a son of Margaret Anthony Reeves Burgess of Seneca and the late Arnold Edward “Sass” Reeves. He was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, having served in the Vietnam War. Chip was a member at Pickens Country Club and will be missed by his many golfing buddies. He was retired from the City of Pickens, and he was a member of Grace United Methodist Church. He loved golf, following the Atlanta Braves and Clemson Tigers and above all, spending time with his family.
A beloved father and grandfather, Chip is survived by a daughter, Kimberly Reeves, and a son, Jamie Reeves (Gretchen), both of Easley, and grandsons, Jay and Ben Reeves. Also surviving are two sisters, Phyllis (Dan) Rampey of Pickens and Tammie Owen of Seneca; and a brother, Rick (Marsha) Reeves of Liberty.
A memorial service was held June 21 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Upstate or the charity of your choice.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family.
James “Jim” Lloyd Carnes
Pickens — James “Jim” Lloyd Carnes, 63, of Pickens, husband of June D. Wagner Carnes, passed Saturday, June 18, in North Carolina.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Jeff Carnes and Mary Alice Laney Carnes, Jim was a member of Six Mile Masonic Lodge No. 339 A.F.M., where he served as Lodge Master in 2011 and 2015. He helped with Meals on Wheels, enjoyed fishing and riding his motorcycle. Jim cared greatly for his friends and family. He enjoyed telling jokes and spending time with his family.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Bill Laney, and brother-in-law, Lot Caudill.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 43 years; son, Jeff Carnes; sisters, Wassie Caudill and Debbie Brock (Dave); sister-in-law, Deb Laney; and grandchildren, Megan and Robert Carnes.
A graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, June 23, at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 595 Old Liberty Road in Easley.
Family will receive friends from 1-3 p.m. at Robinson Funeral Home at 305 W. Main St. in Easley prior to the graveside service.
Flowers are accepted at the funeral home. Family has requested donations be made directly to Six Mile Masonic Lodge, Attn: No. 339 Secretary, 140 Hugh Lane, Pickens, SC 29671.
Family will be at the residence. You will be missed, my best friend and hero.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Courier Obituaries 6-15-16
June D. Ritota
Liberty — Mrs. June Eileen Dineen Ritota, 77, wife of Pasquale “Pat” Ritota, passed away Saturday, June 11, 2016, at her home.
Born in London, England, the daughter of the late Albert John and Hilda Alice New Dineen, Mrs. Ritota was a graduate of the University of Oxford and was a retired claims adjuster with Protective Life Insurance.
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Surviving, in addition to her husband, are two sons, Mark Christopher DuSaules (Lydia) and Michael Lee DuSaules, all of Hammond, La.; a daughter, Laurie Mai DuSaules (David Hazen) of Liberty; a stepson, Joe Ritota (Annie) of Asheville, N.C.; a stepdaughter, Maria Nagy-Gyorgy (Louis) of Liberty; four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Ritota was predeceased by two sons, Christopher John DuSaules and Joseph DuSaules; and a brother, Roy William Dineen.
Memorial services were held June 14, 2016, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.
Memorials may be made to the Cancer Society of Greenville County, 113 Mills Avenue, Greenville, SC 29605, or to Homestead Hospice, 3453 Pelham Road, Greenville, SC 29615.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Betty L. Russo
Clemson — Betty Lou Randall Russo, 83, of 425 Poe St., Clemson, passed away on June 10, 2016.
Betty was born June 11, 1932, in Ramsey, N.J., to the late Clarence L. Randall and Elvira L. Seely. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth J. Russo, and daughter, Karen Odette. Also preceding her in death were her siblings, Virginia Ernst, James B. Randall II and Thomas J. Randall.
Betty is survived by her son, Garth S. Russo, (Natalie) of Watkinsville, Ga., daughter, Melissa L. Wilbanks (Scott) of Easley. and grandchildren, Kenneth Brian and Matthew John Wilbanks of Easley.
Betty, a longstanding member at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Clemson, was a member of the Altar Guild and a volunteer worker at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Thrift Shop since its beginning in 1975. Betty was 1st Vice Regent of Andrew Pickens Chapter of the DAR. In years past, Betty was the student wives’ advisor, as well as coordinator of the commencement activities’ at Lee Hall, College of Architecture. She was also active in both the state AIA ladies’ auxiliary and the Greenville Council of Architectural Wives.
Services were held June 13 at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, followed by interment at St. Paul’s Episcopal Churchyard.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 193 Old Greenville Highway, Clemson, SC 29631.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
Fred Harold Dalton Jr.
Pickens — Mr. Fred Harold Dalton Jr., of 925 Mile Creek Road, husband of the late Patricia “P.J.” Moses Dalton, passed away Monday, June 6, 2016, at St. Francis Hospital – Downtown.
Harold was born in Pickens County on Aug. 2, 1938, to the late Fred Sr. and Virginia Hendricks Dalton. A graduate of Pickens High School, Mr. Dalton retired from Southern Railway as a train dispatcher and then owned Dalton’s Video Store in Pickens for many years. Harold enjoyed reading, gardening, traveling with his late wife and was also a professional photographer.
Harold is survived by a daughter, Heather O’Shields (Don) of Easley; two sons, Brian Smith (Vivian) and Rocky Smith (Tara), both of Pickens; and a brother, Jim Dalton (Tallulah) of Pickens. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Will O’Shields, Griffin O’Shields, Dalton Smith, Logan Smith, Emily Smith and Lacey Smith; and one great-granddaughter, Elyssa Smith.
In addition to his loving wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Francis Reeves.
Memorial services were held June 12 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home.
Flowers are optional, or the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Wildlife Rehab of Greenville, P.O. Box 1801, Greenville, SC 29602.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Samuel Douglas “Sammy” Nix
Pickens — “Sammy” Nix, 65, of 236 Amberwood Road, Pickens, loving husband of June Nix, met his heavenly father on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at the Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.
Sammy was born in Pickens on Aug. 16, 1950, to Thelma Porter Thrift of Pickens and the late Floyd Leroy Nix. He was a 1968 graduate of Pickens High School and retired from both the U.S. Army Reserve as a staff sergeant with 28 years of service in the 7225th Medical Support Unit, and the U.S. Postal Service. He was the current owner and operator of Palmetto Gold Pawn and Gun in Liberty, and in his free time he was a “yard perfectionist.”
A loving husband, father and grandfather (Pappi), He was always up for conversation and enjoyed meeting new people. Sammy was an avid sports fan and officiated basketball and softball for more than 25 years throughout South Carolina. He was very enthusiastic about his love for the USC Gamecocks, and it was only topped by his love for his family and for his Lord and Savior. Sammy was an active, loyal member of Mile Creek Baptist Church in Six Mile.
In addition to his loving wife of 43 years and his mother, Mr. Nix is survived by a daughter, Jody Nix Wilson (Richard) of Pendleton; a brother, Skippy Nix (Debbie) of Pickens; two sisters, Judy Durham and Renee Thrift, both of Pickens; a stepfather, Dwight Thrift of Pickens; and one granddaughter, Addison Wilson. Sammy is also survived by numerous extended family members, a special church family and many loving friends.
Services to honor the life of Sammy were held June 11 at Mile Creek Baptist Church, followed by interment with military honors at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.
Flowers are optional, or the family requests that memorial donations be made to Mile Creek Baptist Church, 104 Lakeside Drive, Six Mile, SC 29682.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Wanda Deloris Townes
EASLEY — Wanda Deloris Townes, 60, of Easley, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 9, 2016.
She is survived by her husband, Wade Townes; her son, Chris Townes; her daughter, Jennifer Foley; her sister, Linda Belk; and her three grandchildren, Jordan, Cody and Jaxson.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Clara Mae Belk; her sister, Sharron Rejan Hellams; and her brothers, Samuel, Mickey, Tony and Gene Belk.
Services were held June 13 at Gilead Baptist Church in Pickens, followed by interment in Holly Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.
Vincent Cerqua
Six Mile — Vincent Cerqua, 75, of 146 Duncan Road, husband of Jane Chart Cerqua, passed away, surrounded by family, on Friday, June 10, 2016, at his home.
Born in Philadelphia, Pa., he was son of the late Daniel and Elsie LaMacchia Cerqua. Vincent was a retired captain in the United States Marine Corps, having served for 21 years, including three tours in Vietnam and various other locations. Following his retirement, he worked for the Department of Social Services in the Child Protection Office and was an entrepreneur. He was a member of the Bahá’í faith.
Surviving in addition to his wife are daughter, Candace Cerqua of Six Mile; sons, James Vinson Cerqua (Carolina Vásquez) of New York City, and Marq Vincent Cerqua (Andrea Rodriguez) of Miami, Fla.; grandchildren, James Anthony, Ciara and Marcus Cerqua, Elías Cerqua Vásquez, Asiri Cerqua Vásquez, Sofia Cerqua and Vincent Cerqua.
Graveside services were held June 12 at Memory Gardens.
Condolences maybe expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
Dwight Kelly
SIX MILE — Dwight Ernest Kelly, 77, of 1261 Liberty Highway, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 14, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Pickens, he was the widower of Nancy Bryant Kelly and a son of the late William E. and Gladys Dorsey Kelly. He was a U.S. Army veteran and was retired from Pickens Machine Works. He was a member of Fairview Baptist Church.
Surviving are two sons, Randy Kelly (Julie) of Six Mile, and Ron Kelly (Larissa) of Easley; four sisters, Betty Holliday of Seneca, Mildred Holliday of Six Mile, Belinda Finley of Williamston and Joan Smith of Pickens; a brother, Wallace Kelly of Pendleton; five grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Ricky Kelly.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Kelly will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at Liberty Mortuary. Burial will follow at Liberty Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to Fairview Baptist Church c/o Rev. Billy Ray Merck 766 Kelly Mill Road Six Mile, SC 29682. The family will be at the home. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
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