Category Archives: Obituaries
Courier Obituaries 2-3-16
F. Douglas Holladay
Central — Franklin Douglas “Doug” Holladay, 81, of 2549 Six Mile Highway, husband of Carol Smith Holladay, died Monday, Jan. 25, 2016, at Pruitt Health and Rehab in Six Mile.
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Born in Pickens County, he was a son of the late Addie Lee Nimmons and Harrison Reece Holladay Sr. Doug was a retired poultry farmer and retired from Central Hardware Company. He was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.
Surviving in addition to his wife are two sons, Brad Holladay of the home and Chuck (Pam) Holladay of Liberty; two daughters, Teresa (Karl) Dearnley of Denver, N.C., and Vickie Holladay of Central; brother, Harrison R. (Sheila) Holladay Jr.; sister, Gloria (Frank) Boggs of Central; grandchildren, Nate Holladay, Allison Holladay, Tessa (Steve) Averett and Neal Holladay; and great-grandchildren, Grayson and Regan Averett.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two sons, Franklin Holladay and Timothy “Timbo” Holladay.
Memorial services were held Jan. 30 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 3041 Six Mile Highway, Central, SC 29630.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
Cindy Galloway
Liberty — Cynthia “Cindy” Galloway, 53, passed from this life on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016, at her home.
Cindy was born in Greenville, daughter of Betty York Cantrell and the late E. J. Galloway. She was formerly employed with St. Jude Medical in Liberty, and she was a Baptist. Cindy was an avid AC/DC fan and was preparing to attend the upcoming concert.
Survivors include her mother, Betty Y. Cantrell, and stepfather, Doyle Cantrell, of Pickens; son, Eric Patterson, and daughter, Amy Patterson, both of Liberty; stepbrother, Stan Cantrell (Gay) of Easley; and a cousin and special brother, Claude Sanders of Pickens. Also surviving are her uncle and aunt, Carl and Jeanette Turner of Pickens and special friends, Paula, Jamie, and Jessica.
A graveside service was held Jan. 29 at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens, with the Rev. Scott Willis officiating, with burial following.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Louis O’Donald
Easley — Roger Louis O’Donald Sr., 81, husband of the late Margaret Yvonne Evette O’Donald, passed from this life on Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, at Brookdale in Easley.
Mr. O’Donald was born in Pickens County, a son of the late Joseph Ira and Ali Mae Patton O’Donald. He was retired from The Singer Company in Pickens following 40 years of service. Mr. O’Donald was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.
Survivors include his son, Roger O’Donald Jr. (Lynne) of Easley and his daughter, Sharon Hawkins (Scott) of Easley; grandchildren Austin O’Donald (Meryl), Brenna Wells (Sam), Taylor Hawkins and Bradley Hawkins; and great-grandchildren, Phoebe O’Donald, Augustin “Gus” O’Donald and Carey Anne O’Donald. Also surviving are sisters, Eula Hall of Six Mile and Martha Aiken (Joe) and Annette McGathy of Easley.
In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. O’Donald was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Cristalyn O’Donald; and siblings, Pearl Gray, Albert O’Donald, Beulah Crumpton and Annie Lee Cox and his infant brother, John Aurthur O’Donald.
Funeral services were held Jan. 30 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel, with the Rev. Austin O’Donald officiating, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens, with Dr. Stuart Houston officiating.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Memorials may be made to The Parkinson’s Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, NY 10018 or www.pdf.org.
Bill Teat
Easley — Mr. George William “Bill” Teat, 79, husband of Elma Murrell Teat, passed away Monday, Jan. 25, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born in Central, a son of the late John Henry and Mary Elliott Teat, Mr. Teat was a 1954 graduate of Easley High School and retired from Easley Combined Utilities with 38 years of service. He served on the board of directors of the Pickens County Rural Water Authority and was a member of the Shriners and the Bates Lodge No. 189 AFM. Bill was a U.S. Navy veteran and a member of Brushy Creek Baptist Church.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 56 years, are a son, Robert Teat (Sharon) of Easley; two daughters, Cathy T. Hale of Greenville and Beth T. Stone (Dale) of Easley; and five grandchildren, Candace H. McGee (James), Jimmy Hale, Brandi Teat, Addison Stone and Harrison Stone. In addition to his parents, Mr. Teat was predeceased by a brother, Jack Elliott Teat, and a sister, Joyce Teat Chambers.
Funeral services were held Jan. 29 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, officiated by Rev. Dr. Jim Spencer and Rev. Rodney Graham, with burial following in Greenlawn Memorial Park with military honors.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Samuel E. Youngblood, Sr.
Easley — Mr. Samuel Edward “Papa Ed” Youngblood Sr., 87, husband of the late Mary Elizabeth Golightly Youngblood, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Pickens County, a son of the late Samuel Martin and Myrtie Ann Dickard Youngblood, Mr. Youngblood retired from AT&T and was a member of Glenwood Wesleyan Church. He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran.
Surviving are two sons, Samuel E. “Sammy” Youngblood Jr. (Jackie) of Easley and Rev. Marty Youngblood (Daphne) of Auburn, Ga.; two daughters, Beth Black (Ronnie) of McCormick and Edith Garrett (Robert) of Central; a sister, Ruth Jones of Greenville; a special friend, Almetia Newton; seven grandchildren, Jody and Heath Black, Lori Gossett, Josh and Christopher Youngblood, Addison Garrett and Stephanie Doll; 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Youngblood was predeceased by three brothers, Charles, David and Alton Youngblood; and a sister, Frances Simmons.
Funeral services were held Jan. 30, 2016, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following 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.
Mildred Merck
Pickens — Mildred Beatrice Patterson Merck, 86, widow of Ray Roddy Merck, went home to be with her Lord on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016.
Mrs. Merck was born in Oconee County, a daughter of the late Gould Clayton and Daisy Dean Patterson. She was a homemaker and a faithful member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and served as church organist. She was a member of the Senior Woman’s Class and formerly taught The Ladies Class.
Survivors include her son, Hal Merck (Janice) of Sunset; granddaughter, Halle Merck; and brothers, Russell Patterson of Arcadia, Fla., Winfred “Dink” Patterson of Williamston and Dennis Patterson of Liberty.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Merck was preceded in death by her daughter, Gail Annette Merck; brothers, Hoyt Patterson, Cecil Patterson, Hugh Patterson and Clayton Patterson; and sisters, Jessie Thompson, Grace Chapman, Mozelle Smith and Jennie Merck.
Funeral services were held Jan. 31 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Memorials may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 100 Pleasant Hill Church Rd, Central, SC 29630.
Helen L. Cook
Pickens — Helen L. Cook, 86, widow of Curtis Edward “Pete” Cook, passed from this life on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2016, at her home.
Mrs. Cook was born in Pickens County, daughter of the late Luther Glen and Emily Porter Waldrop. She was formerly a member of Seniors Unlimited in Pickens.
Survivors include a grandson, Michael David Newsome (Jenni) of Ft. Pierce, Fla., and a granddaughter, Rebecca Louise Lillard (Albert) of Port St. Lucie, Fla., and great-grandchildren, Devin, Tyler, Olivia, Allysha and Aubrey.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Cook was preceded in death by sons, Glen David Newsome and Patrick Craig Childs.
A graveside service was held Jan. 29 at Hillcrest Memorial Park & Gardens in Pickens, with burial following.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Mike Pilgrim
Pickens — Arthur Mike Pilgrim, 64, of 153 Pilgrim Circle, passed away peacefully Friday at McCall Hospice House in Simpsonville.
Born in Pickens, he was a son of the late Joseph Coy and Rethal Chapman Pilgrim. He loved his Tennessee walking horses and painting. He worked for Foothills Machining and was a member of Keowee Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Jane Norwood Pilgrim, and granddaughter, Brittany Blough, of the home; a daughter, Breanne Powell (Clint) of Anderson; a son, Laken Pilgrim of Six Mile; a sister, Joyce Gilstrap (Jack) of Pickens; two brothers, twin brother, Mark Pilgrim (Cyndi) of Easley and Don Pilgrim (Jean) of Pickens; and grandchildren, Bentlee and Kade Powell of Anderson, and Joshua, Jamie and Makayla Neely of Greenwood.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Pilgrim will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, at Keowee Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Mt. View Baptist Church Cemetery.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com.
Edith C. Williams
Easley — Mrs. Edith Carter Williams, 94, wife of the late John Craig Williams Sr., passed away Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, at McCall Hospice House, Simpsonville.
Born in Wadesboro, N.C., a daughter of the late William Henry and Elizabeth Bobbitt Carter, Mrs. Williams was a graduate of Queens College, where she belonged to the Phi Mu Sorority. She taught math at Easley Junior High School for 20 years and was a member of the South Carolina Retired Educators Association and the National Education Association. She was a member of Easley First United Methodist Church for 65 years and a member of the United Methodist Women.
Mrs. Williams was a former member of the Better Homes Club and the Nosegay Garden Club. She was an avid bridge player and played well into her nineties.
Surviving are a son, John Craig Williams Jr. (Corinne) of Easley; a daughter, Susan Carter Williams of Easley; two grandsons, John Craig Williams, III, (Jennifer) of Sylva, N.C., and DuPre Carter Williams (Shauna) of Greenville; a granddaughter-in-law, Yvonne Clark Williams of Easley; four great-grandchildren, John Craig Williams, IV, Sarah Elizabeth Williams, EsDras Dixon Williams and Phoebe Sitton Williams. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Williams was predeceased by two sisters, Virginia Carter Prevette and Elizabeth Carter Stahl.
Funeral services will be held at noon Wednesday, Feb. 3, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with Rev. Dr. Rodney Powell officiating. Burial will follow in Westview Cemetery, Easley. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at the funeral home, prior to the service.
Family members are at their respective homes.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Julie Valentine Center, 2905 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29611, or to the Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library, 304 Biltmore Road, Easley, SC 29640.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Bobbie Olivia Palmer
Liberty — Bobbie Olivia Palmer, 83, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at her home.
Miss Palmer was born in Anderson County and was the daughter of the late Cecil L. and Mattie Dobson Palmer. She was retired from Clemson University after 40 years of service and was a member of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, where she had served as pianist.
Surviving are her brother, David L. Palmer (Brenda) of Liberty; a nephew, Michael D. Palmer (Stephanie); and a great-nephew, Riley M. Palmer, all of Easley.
Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4, in Memory Gardens, Clemson.
The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. prior to the service at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, 827 Old Greenville Highway, Clemson, SC 29631.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at the funeral home.
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Courier Obituaries 1-27-2016
Jerry M. Shipman Jr.
Easley — Mr. Jerry Mitchell Shipman Jr., 45, passed away Monday, Jan. 18, 2016, at Rainey Hospice House.
Born in Greenville County, the son of Vicky Houston Shipman and the Late Jerry Mitchell Shipman Sr., Mr. Shipman was formerly employed with CJ Machinery and was a member of Central First Baptist Church.
Surviving, in addition to his mother, are his fiancée, Tracy Whitten of Anderson; a daughter, April Shipman of Easley; and a son, Owen Shipman of Easley. In addition to his father, Mr. Shipman was predeceased by his grandparents, Jake and Sarah Brown and Harold and Billie Mae Houston.
Funeral services were held Jan. 21 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, with burial following in Robinson Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to the Rainey Hospice House, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Reba Reeves Elrod
Pickens — Reba Reeves Elrod, 90, wife of the late Wilson Elrod, passed away at her daughter Nancy’s home on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016.
Mrs. Elrod was born in Pickens County and was a daughter of the late William Ed Reeves and Ethel Mae Ferguson Reeves.
Mrs. Elrod was a homemaker. She loved to travel and loved preparing meals for her family. She was the oldest member of Oolenoy Baptist Church.
Survivors include two daughters, Mary Ellen Deanhardt (Rodney) and Nancy Ann Anderson (Bill), both of Pickens; two sons, Linville Wilson Elrod and Sammy Lee Elrod (Debbie), also of Pickens; two sisters, Vertie Mae Burgess (Cecil) of Cleveland and Jean Trotter of Greenville; six grandchildren, Pam Niles, Kent Deanhardt, Rich Anderson, Michael Anderson, Stacy Simmons and Christopher Elrod; and nine great-grandchildren, Joe, Ally, Ricky, Andrew, Kinsley, Audrey Kate, Trey, Jackson and Parker. Mrs. Elrod also has a sister-in-law, Agnes Reeves of Pickens. Mrs. Elrod was predeceased by one daughter, Kathryn Elrod, and three brothers, Leroy Reeves, Harmon Reeves and Bruce Reeves.
Services were held Jan. 26 at Oolenoy Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
Special thanks to Interim Hospice for the love and care for our mother.
Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Elrod family.
Roy H. Holliday
Easley — Mr. Roy Hulet Holliday, 83, husband of Ellender Adcox “Bud” Holliday, passed away Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born in Anderson County, a son of the late Arthur Hulet and Lena Sweet Holliday, Mr. Holliday retired from Misco Paper Converter and was a member of Geer Memorial Baptist Church.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 66 years, are a son, Randy Holliday of Pendleton; a brother, Walter “Buddy” Holliday of Easley; a sister, Anne Davis of Fair Play; six grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Holliday was predeceased by a son, Mike Holliday; a daughter, Kimberly H. Tant; and five brothers, Paul, James, Gerald, Mickey and Charles Holliday.
Funeral services were held Jan. 25 at Geer Memorial Baptist Church, with burial following in Westview Cemetery-Easley.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Kathleen Anne Perry Bagwell
Pickens — Kathleen Anne Perry Bagwell, 81, wife of the late Rufus James Bagwell, passed away on Tuesday Jan. 19, 2016.
Mrs. Bagwell was born in Savannah, Ga., and was the daughter of the late Joseph Francis Perry and Isabelle McAlpine Perry.
Mrs. Bagwell was a homemaker and a member of Pickens Church of God.
Survivors include four sons, Anthony “Tony” Bagwell of Pickens, Avery Dale Bagwell (Nancy) of Pickens, Andrew Bagwell of Florida and Alan Bagwell (Ivonne) of Texas; two daughters, Amanda Bagwell of Pickens and Annette Weber (Drew) of Texas; and two sisters, Mary Grisson (Shorty) of Savannah and Margaret Hanson of California. She also leaves in her memory seven grandchildren, Eric Bagwell, Becca Bagwell, Andrea Bagwell, Katrina Bagwell, Adam Ortiz, Diane Weber and Annie Zubiria; as well as two great-grandchildren, Bryson Evans and Maximiliano Campos; and very dear friend of our family, Ruth Vickery.
Memorial services were held Jan. 25 at Pickens Church of God.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to Pickens Church of God P.O. Box 810 Pickens, South Carolina 29671.
Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Bagwell family.
Lynn Childers
Easley — Dorothy Lynn Childers, 49, of George’s Creek Drive, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016.
Born in Easley, she was the daughter of Dottie Medlin Ridley of Brandon, Fla., and the late Sam Childers of Easley.
Lynn was invested in real estate. She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and everyone she met. She was a true angel on Earth. She was a talented musician who loved traveling and sunsets on the beach.
Surviving in addition to her mother and stepfather, Tom Ridley, are her niece, Kayla Childers of Easley; four brothers, Dean Childers of Tampa, Fla., Jason Brewer of Taylors and Cory and Jody Childers of Belton.
In addition to her father, she was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth Phillips.
Services were held Jan. 24 at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Private services will be held at a later date.
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.
Clara B. Poling
Easley — Mrs. Clara Bell Lantz Poling, 78, wife of the late Weldon Byron Poling, passed away Sunday, Jan. 24, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Lantz, W.Va., a daughter of the late Clark Lee Lantz and Alma Kay Williams Lantz, Mrs. Poling was the retired owner of K&P Cleaning Service and a member of Liberty First Baptist Church.
Surviving are three sons, Weldon L. Poling of Hendersonville, N.C., Roy D. Poling of Easley and Denzil R. Poling of Liberty; a daughter, Joy L. Pelfrey of Easley; two sisters; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Poling was predeceased by three sisters and six brothers.
Memorial services will be held at a later date in West Virginia.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Inez Hudson Morgan
Pickens — Inez Morgan, 88, wife of the late Lyston Edwin Morgan passed away Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016.
Mrs. Morgan was born in Pickens, daughter of the late Thomas (Tomp) Hudson and Mattie Cater Hudson.
Mrs. Morgan was a homemaker and member of Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church.
Survivors include a daughter, Reba Morgan Osborne of Illinois. Also surviving is her twin brother, Ivy Hudson of Six Mile, and grandchildren Wagner Osborne, Morgan Osborne, and Soern Osborne.
Mrs. Morgan was predeceased by a daughter, Edwina Morgan McCall and a brother, Roy Couch.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens, with funeral services following in the funeral home chapel at 1 p.m. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
The family will gather at the United Wesleyan Church fellowship building at 738 Rice Road in Easley following the ceremonies.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church, c/o Pastor Dick Waldrep, 622 Johnson St., Pickens, SC 29671.
Charles Vando Hendricks
Six Mile — Charles Vando Hendricks, 86, of 401 N. Main St., passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 25, 2016, at his residence.
Born in Six Mile, he was the eighth child of George Raymond and Berta Mae Parrott Hendricks’ 12 children.
Mr. Hendricks retired from Clemson University and was a member of Mt. Olivet Wesleyan Church, where he was a former Sunday school superintendent and teacher.
Throughout his life he was an avid collector of long rifles, muzzle loaders, and antique single-cylinder engines. He even constructed his own firearms. He also collected and worked on antique clocks. He was a former president of the S.C. Arms Collectors.
Surviving are his wife, Betty Grant Hendricks of the home; a daughter, Cathy Looper (Stan) of Piedmont; two sons, Rev. Michael Grant Hendricks of Hobe Sound, Fla., and Kevin Vando Hendricks (Wanda) of Central; a sister, Rebecca Singleton of Easley; a brother, Merle Hendricks of Pickens; seven grandchildren, Michelle Hendricks of Tennessee, Carmen Purnell of Florida, Stephanie Hendricks of Florida, Elizabeth “Beth” Hendricks of Tennessee, Anna Eaton (Chad) of Piedmont, Victoria Looper of Greenville, and William Vando Hendricks of Liberty. Also surviving are 10 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Hendricks will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Wesleyan Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Liberty Mortuary.
The family will be at the home. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the Pickens Senior Center, 129 School House Street, Pickens, SC 29671, or OMH Hospice of the Foothills, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Courier 1-20-16
Donald Louis “Don” Hayes
Pickens — Donald Louis “Don” Hunter, 64, husband of Renee Hunter, passed from this life Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, at his home.
Mr. Hunter was born in Elizabeth, N.J., to the late Norman Hunter III and the late Helen Horin Hunter. He retired from traveling all over the world as a pipe welder and was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include his wife Renee of the home; his son, Michael Kelly Hunter of Asheville, N.C.; and two brothers, Norman Hunter of Easley and Terry Hunter of Crawford, N.J.
A memorial service will be held at later date at Griffin Baptist Church, 1629 Pumpkintown Highway, Pickens, SC 29671.
Memorials may be made to St. Joseph’s Indian School, P.O. Box 300 Chamberlain, SD 57325 www.stjo.org.
Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.
Chuck Hayes
Easley — Charles G. “Chuck” Hayes, 69, husband of Ethel Fant Hayes, passed from this life on Monday, Jan. 11, 2016, at St. Francis Hospital.
Chuck was born in Pickens County, a son of the late Odie and Bertie Simmons Hayes. He was retired from Benson Ford in Easley, where he was a mechanic and later dealer auto transfer. He was a member of Graceway Baptist Church in Easley and a U.S. Army veteran during the Vietnam War. Chuck loved his family, playing golf, fishing and shooting pool.
Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Ethel Hayes of the home son, Phillip Hayes of the home, and daughter, Unna Lockaby of Easley. Also surviving are brothers, C. B. Hayes, and Furman “Gabby” Hayes, both of Pickens, and his sister, Irene Kelley, also of Pickens.
In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by twin grandchildren, Jonathan Patrick and Jessica Mae Hayes; and two brothers, Bertran Hayes and Fred Hayes.
Services were held Jan. 14 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Dr. Taze Leonard Senn
Clemson — Dr. Taze Leonard “Tee” Senn, 98, of 201 Strawberry Lane died Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016.
Tell the people that you saw him passing through.
Born in Newberry, Dr. Senn was a son of the late George Walter and Rebecca Reeder Senn.
Tee graduated from Clemson College in 1939 and earned his master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland. He also proudly served in the Corps of Cadets at Clemson and in the U.S. Navy in World War II.
He was a long-time member of Clemson United Methodist Church.
At Clemson University, Dr. Senn was a professor of horticulture and was also named chair of the Department of Horticulture. He was a mentor to his students, who not only taught his students academics but also taught them that “no matter what you do, you have to be happy.”
Dr. Senn received the Danforth Teaching Fellowship, the only South Carolinian in agriculture to ever receive this award. Among the many awards Dr. Senn received over the years regarding both his academic and agriculture careers, the Thomas Green Clemson Medallion was bestowed upon him, the highest award given by Clemson University.
Many have stated that it was a privilege to know and work with Dr. Senn. He was an inspirational colleague and friend at home and abroad. His words and actions kept his students, colleagues and friends focused on whatever matter was at hand.
Following his academic career, Nature’s NOG was created and refined by Dr. Senn, a well-known scientist, researcher, educator and horticulturist. After 40 years of research and hundreds of lab and field tests, Dr. Senn researched the positive impact certain seaweed extracts and hamates can have on plant growth.
Dr. Senn was instrumental and invaluable with the conception, establishment and implementation of the Class of 1939 Award for Faculty Excellence at Clemson University. This award is presented annually to one distinguished member of the faculty whose outstanding contributions have been judged by her/his peers to represent the highest achievement of service to the student body, university and community, state or nation. The recipient also becomes an honorary member of the class; therefore, the great Class of 1939 will live forever because of the foresight of the original members of the class with this award. Guided by Tee Senn, Jim Sweeney and others, the great Class of ’39 had and continues to have an uncommon devotion to Clemson University proven by the many scholarships bestowed to students over the years.
An innovative concept of Dr. Senn’s, also its founder, was the South Carolina Botanical Garden located on the Clemson campus, of which the original 44 acres are dedicated in his honor. His talents and tenacity as an administrator, educator and innovator went beyond formal plan collections to create a progressive public garden. The Horticultural Gardens integrate nature, recreation and therapeutic resources with preservation, conservation teaching and research.
Surviving are his wife, Betty Connor Senn of the home; son, David L. (Virginia) Senn of Central; stepdaughter, Pamela Y. (Rick) Polhemus of Atlanta, Ga.; grandchildren, Shane (Sarah) Senn, Richard A. (Ann) Senn, Jr. and Rusty (Kimball) Senn; step-grandchildren, Stephanie L Polhemus and Jason C. Polhemus; great-grandchildren, Emma Y. Senn, Trevor D. Senn, C.J. Senn, Gabe Senn and Axton Senn; and daughters-in-law, Cleve Ann Senn of Clemson and Sonya Senn of Six Mile.
In addition to his parents, Dr. Senn was predeceased by his first wife and partner, Marguerite Busby Senn; and two sons, Richard A. “Dickie” Senn and Thomas L. “Tommy” Senn.
Funeral services were held Jan. 16 at Clemson United Methodist Church, with burial following in Woodland Cemetery on the campus of Clemson University, which he loved so much. Memorials may be made to the South Carolina State Botanical Gardens, 150 Discovery Lane, Clemson, SC 29631.
In the spirit of a true ‘39er, let’s all make a toast to honor Tee Senn: a great friend, a great ‘39er, a great man, a great American, and most of all, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett – Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
Harold B. Holden
Easley — Harold Bennett Holden, 70, of 101 Wallace Drive, died Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Cateechee, he was the son of the late Timmon and Geneva Merck Holden. He was previously a member of Faith Baptist Church.
Surviving are three daughters, Tonia Holden of Easley, Heather Holden of Liberty and Jennifer Young of Kileen, Texas; three sons, Lonnie Bennett Holden of Liberty, Joshua Holden of Salem and Corey Bradley of Anderson; a brother, Johnny Merck of Pickens; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Jeffrey Holden.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Holden were held Jan. 18 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Westview Cemetery.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com.
Rocky D. Cater
Pickens — Rocky Darrell Cater, 61, husband of Glenda Hardin Cater, passed from this life on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Rocky was born in Pickens County, a son of the late A. C. and Hattie Medlin Cater. He was retired as a brick mason and was of the Baptist faith.
Rocky loved all things sports, including golf, Gamecock football, horseshoes and anything else competitive. He was a star football player at Pickens High School, where he won “Player of the Year” in 1973. Following high school, he went to Mars Hill College on a football scholarship, where he played for two years.
Survivors include his wife of 21 years, Glenda Cater of the home; daughter, Kellie “Benes” Reeves (Travis Ballard) of Pickens; grandchildren, Paylin and Veda Ballard. Also surviving are twin sisters, Brenda Eisenman of Simpsonville and Linda Mangum (Bob) of Powdersville; and brothers, Jimmy Cater (Kathy) of Marietta, and Roger Cater (Margaret) of Pickens.
In addition to his parents, Rocky was preceded in death by a niece, Mandy Mangum, and a nephew, Tyler Mangum.
Funeral services were held Jan. 19 in the funeral home chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pickens High School Athletic Department, 150 Blue Flame Drive, Pickens, SC 29671.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
MARKUS BATES
PICKENS — Markus Bates, 45, of Pickens, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2016.
He is survived by his children, Joseph Bates and Christy Anthony; his siblings, Frinda Hill and Opal Bates; his parents, Larry Bates and Faye Cassell; and one grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Lester Thornton Bates and Flonnie Mae Bates; and his maternal grandparents, Rev. Vessie Hoxit and Ollie Mae Hoxit.
Funeral services were held Jan. 19 at Rocky Bottom Baptist Church in Pickens, with interment following in the Rocky Bottom Baptist Church Cemetery.
Joe Earl Murphree
Pickens — Joseph Earl Murphree, 73, husband of Paulette Burns Murphree, went to be with our Lord on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, at Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.
Joe was born in Pickens County, son of the late N. Earl and Bernice Stewart Murphree. He was an interior designer and was former head of interior design for Harper Brothers in Greenville, and later he was self-employed, installing draperies. A farmer at heart, Joe loved to work with his cattle and to garden. He attended Clemson University and Cecil’s Business College and he served with the U.S. Army as a reservist.
Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Paulette, of the home; sons, Joe E. Murphree, Jr. (Darleen) of Greenville, and Keith McCurley of Pickens; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Kannie Murphree Wallis.
Funeral services were held Jan. 18 in the Dillard Funeral Home Chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Memorials may be made to Cottingham Hospice House, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672.
Joyce James
Liberty — Joyce Elaine Osteen James, 75, of 1163 Stewart Gin Road, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, at her residence.
Born in Altamont, Ill., she was a daughter of the late Otha and Jennie Alwerdt Osteen.
She retired from Sunex Tools in Travelers Rest. She enjoyed playing the piano, reading, sewing, cooking for family occasions and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She especially loved Christmas and collecting special ornaments.
Surviving are her husband, Phillip R. James of the home; a daughter, Cindy Turner (Bryan) of Easley; two sons, Mark James (Vikki) of Greenville, and Tim James (Heather) of Greer; a brother, Buddy Osteen (Judi) of Altamont, Ill.; four grandchildren, Katie, David, and Matthew James, and Allie Turner; also surviving are several cherished nieces and nephews.
Services and burial will take place at a later date in Altamont, Ill., conducted by the Gieseking Funeral Home, 208 N. 2nd Street, Altamont, Ill.
Liberty Mortuary is handling local arrangements.
Nina Elizabeth Durham Sims
Pickens — Nina Elizabeth Durham Sims, 86, wife of the late Donald Ernest Sims Sr., went to be with the Lord peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016, surrounded by her loving family.
Mrs. Sims was born in Liberty and was the daughter of the late George “Guy “Durham and Nora Turner Durham.
Mrs. Sims enjoyed quilting, preparing meals for her family and meeting with her Bible study class at the YMCA. She was a member of East Pickens Baptist Church and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
Survivors include two sons, Steve Beasley (Sheila) of Easley and Donald E. Sims Jr. (Tracey) of Pickens; two daughters, Sandy Beck (Jerry) of Easley and Janice Pappas (Bill) of Charleston; seven grandchildren, Kim Anthony, Cynthia Pate, Melissa Flynn, Nicole Alford, Jessica Beasley and John Sims; 10 great-grandchildren; one brother, Ralph Durham; and one sister, Ruth Davis.
Funeral services were held Jan. 19 in the Dillard Funeral Home Chapel.
Services were officiated by the Rev. Jamie Duncan, the Rev. Roger Gwinn and Mr. Rick Grant, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens. Mrs. Sims was predeceased by her husband, parents, two sisters and four brothers.
The family requests memorials to be made to Pickens Senior Center, 129 Schoolhouse Road, Pickens, SC 29671, or Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 184, Easley, SC 29640.
Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Sims family.
The Rev. Graham Gillespie
Six Mile — The Rev. Graham C. Gillespie, 73, of 4 Sleepy Hollow Lane, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016.
Born in Central, he was a son of the late Jimmy Dart and Lois Gillespie.
He retired from Poinsett Construction Company and was a member of Mile Creek Baptist Church. He loved to preach and spend his free time fishing.
Surviving are his wife, Joyce Henderson Gillespie of the home; a daughter, Kristal Doherty (Thomas) of Pickens; a son, Scott Gillespie (Cynthia) of Liberty; two sisters, JoAnn Gillespie and Marilyn Gillespie, both of Central; a brother, Jimmy Gillespie of Liberty; six grandchildren, Tommy, Ryan, and Erin Doherty, and Katelyn, Avery, and Jaylie Gillespie; and his mother-in-law, Gertrude Henderson Nix of Easley.
Funeral services to honor the life of Rev. Gillespie will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. Burial will be at Flat Rock Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
The family will be at the home. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Nancy G. Atkinson
Easley — Nancy Godfrey Atkinson, 68, of West Arial Street, wife of the late Larry Eugene Atkinson, passed away Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016.
Born in Greenville County, she was the daughter of Frances Alexander Anderson of Easley and the late Harold Godfrey.
Mrs. Atkinson was retired from Mayfair Mills in Easley.
Surviving are her children, Robby Atkinson of Easley and Jenny McCall (Donald) of Pendleton; seven grandchildren, Nicole Pressley, Cody Hollingsworth, Abby Atkinson, Claire Atkinson, Ian Richardson, Kristen Richardson and Savannah McCall; nine great-grandchildren; and a sister, Elaine Atkinson (Wayne) of Easley.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
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.
Courier Obituaries 1-13-16
JERRY SMITH
Liberty — Jerry Ernest Smith Sr., 69, of 450 Roanoke Road, died Wednesday at his residence.
Born in Liberty, he was a son of the late Colie and Mary Smith.
He was a self-employed brick mason and loved to hunt and read. He was a member of Jones Avenue Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Judy Gillespie Smith of the home; a daughter, Bridget Smith of the home; two sons, Ernie Smith of Easley and Lance Smith (Shannon) of Easley; a sister, Shelby Riggins of Six Mile; three brothers, Dee Smith of Central, Frank Smith of Clemson and Tommy Smith of Easley; seven grandchildren, Tiffany Smith, Brooklyn Pilgrim, Colie, Carter, Emery and Marley Smith and Chevana Anderson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jay Harold and Jim Smith.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Smith were held Jan. 8 at Jones Avenue Baptist Church, with burial following at Westview Cemetery in Easley.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
GARY E. BOLT
Central — Gary Eugene Bolt, 74, of 3854 Six Mile Highway, died Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville.
Born in Townville, he was a son of the late L E and Amy Lee Thrasher Bolt. Gary was a former employee with Pratt-Read Company and was a retired supervisor with West Point Stevens.
Surviving are sons, Franklin (Dianna) Bolt of Central and Jimmy (Shelley) Bolt of Travelers Rest; brother, Don (Mary Anne) Bolt of Westminster; sisters, Brenda (Marshall) Brown of Iva, and Patsy (Marc) Mitchell of Margate, Fla.; grandchildren, Nicholas Bolt, Chris Bolt, Melanie (Jake) Oliver and Kaiti Bolt; and a soon to be great-granddaughter, Kinley Grace Oliver.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Willie Grace Moore Bolt; brother, Julius Oscar Bolt; and sisters, Betsy Bolt and Cathy Owen.
Funeral services were held Jan. 12 in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, with burial following in Mt. Zion Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at the funeral home.
LIZ CRAWFORD
Sunset — Mrs. Elizabeth “Liz” Ann Morgan Crawford, 79, wife of Raymond “Ray” Mays Crawford, passed away Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, at AnMed Health Medical Center following a brief illness.
Born in Lavonia, Ga., the only daughter of the late James Ralph Winston and Annie Blanche Cox Morgan, Mrs. Crawford was a graduate of Georgia Southern University and taught school for more than 20 years including several years at Pickens Junior High School. From 1989 to 2014, she worked in the library of Southern Wesleyan University, where she mentored hundreds of students. She was named Staff Member of the Year for 1992-1993. Liz was a devoted Christian and a member of Holly Springs Baptist Church.
Surviving, in addition to her husband of 57 years, are a son, Chris Crawford (Sherrell) of Anderson; three daughters, Cassie Abernathy (Brad) of Cleveland, Ga., Cindy Holmes (Mike) of Peachtree City, Ga., and Katherine Sudduth (Todd) of Pickens; a brother, Wilton “Punk” Morgan of Lavonia, Ga.; and 12 grandchildren, Andrew Crawford; Bryson Crawford, Faith and Josiah Abernathy; Skyler, Sierra, Savannah and Sicily Holmes; Annabelle, Ivy, and Gracie Kate Sudduth. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Crawford was predeceased by two brothers, Winston and Howard Morgan
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Jan. 16, at Holly Springs Baptist Church, 3450 Table Rock Road, Pickens, SC 29671. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends from noon until 1:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the church prior to the service.
Family members are at their respective homes.
At the request of Liz, please omit flowers and make memorials to Orphans in Honduras through Identity Mission, P.O. Box 411691, Charlotte, NC 28241.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
EDNA A. SWEET
Liberty— Edna A. Sweet, 99, widow of Furman Earl Sweet, passed away Jan. 3, 2016.
Surviving are two children, Kenneth E. Sweet Sr. of Belton and Joe Earl Sweet (Linda) of Easley; four grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by three grandchildren, three brothers, and six sisters.
Services were held Jan. 7 at Cremation Society of SC-Westville Funeral Home. The family requests to omit flowers, with memorials made instead to Interim Hospice.
Courier Obituaries 1-6-16
ROBERT WILLIAM “BILL” NALLEY
JONESBORO, Ark. —Robert William “Bill” Nalley, 82, of Jonesboro, Ark., formerly of Central, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2015, in Jonesboro.
Bill was born March 19, 1933, in Central, where he was a five-year member of the high school football team, which won three state championships. Bill played football at Arkansas State University, where he met his wife.
Survivors include his wife, JoAnn Allison Nalley, two daughters, one granddaughter, and a sister, Eloise Nalley Horton, of Central.
Funeral services and burial were held in Jonesboro.
William Leon Todd
Pickens — Leon Todd, 72, husband of Carolyn Crumpton Todd, passed from this life Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Pickens County, a son of the late William Duff and Anna Lorene Satterfield Todd, he was retired from Southern Technology of Greer and was of the Baptist faith. Leon enjoyed the outdoors, especially if he was hunting, fishing or boating.
Survivors include his wife, Carolyn, of the home, a sister, Linda Todd of Salem; a brother, Farrell Todd (Barbara) of Pickens; and a grandson, William Matthew Todd of Nashville, Tenn. Mr. Todd was predeceased by his parents and a son, William Scott Todd.
Services were held Dec. 27 at Dillard Funeral Home, with a graveside service following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens, conducted by Rev. Roger Morgan.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Todd Family.
Dorothy “Dot” Lucille Coates Pittman
Laurinburg, N.C. —Dorothy “Dot” Lucille Coates Pittman, 85, of Laurinburg, N.C., formerly of Pickens, passed away to her Heavenly home on Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015.
Dorothy was born July 21, 1930, in Scotland County, N.C., daughter of the late Boyd U. and Annie Mae Woodell Coates. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother that truly loved spending time with her family. She worked in textiles with Waverly Mills for many years. Dot loved people and was a devoted prayer warrior, a wonderful listener and counselor; her true joy came from helping others. She also enjoyed reading, traveling and the visits from her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers Boyd Coates Jr., Franklin D. Coates and sisters Lillian Stanley, Beatrice Weiland and Elise Gause.
Dot is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Jackson “Jack” Lee Pittman of the home; daughters, Jannett Lucille P. Trotter (Rev. Sam) of Pickens, Dorothy P. “Ronota” Bass (Alton) of Laurinburg; a brother, Richard “Ricky” Coates of Laurinburg and sister, Eulden “Lady” Baber of Surfside Beach; seven grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Dec. 29 at the Springfield Church of God, officiated by Rev. Dave Shoemake and Rev. Sam Trotter, with burial following in Hillside Cemetery. Services were entrusted to Richard Boles Funeral Service.
MILDRED MARIETTE ELLENBURG ABERCROMBIE
SIX MILE — Mildred Mariette Ellenburg Abercrombie departed this life on Dec. 30, 2015, to be with her precious Lord and Savior.
She was the daughter of the late Ben Perry Ellenburg and Omie Rice Ellenburg. Born on March 26, 1929, in Sunset, she graduated from Six Mile High School.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she retired from Schlumberger in Oconee County.
She is survived by her husband of 68 years, William Morris Abercrombie of Six Mile; two sons, Dr. Stoney Abercrombie (Donna) of Anderson and Jeffrey Abercrombie of Six Mile; five grandchildren, Terri (Mike) Teramano, Jonathan (Tiffany) Abercrombie, Kristina Abercrombie, Joshua (Sarah) Abercrombie, and Whitney (Isaac) Moore; and four great-grandchildren, Riley, Jackson, Anna and Ethan. The last of 14 children, she is survived by multiple nieces, nephews and beloved family members and friends.
Her Christian faith, monumentally important to her, directed her daily activities. She was an active member of Gap Hill Church of God since 1950 and had a 50-year perfect Sunday attendance from 1960-2010. Involved in multiple church ministries as a children’s teacher, Sunday school secretary and nursing home ministry director, she never met a stranger and would easily share about her family and her faith. She received a plaque for extraordinary dedication given by Volunteers in Medical Missions in 1997.
A memorial service was held Jan. 3 at Gap Hill Church of God, officiated by Bishops Stoney Abercrombie, M.D., Roger Stephens and Tony Edwards. Burial will be a private family event in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Pickens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be given to Mildred Abercrombie MOMs Scholarship, Volunteers in Medical Missions, 265 South Cove Road, Seneca, SC 29672 -6712 or Cottingham Hospice House, 290 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672.
Bud Stancil
Six Mile — Thomas Edward “Bud” Stancil, 75, passed from this life on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015.
Bud was born in Pickens County, a son of the late Leo and Essie Durham Stancil. He was formerly employed with Pratt Reed and retired from the Defore Plant of the Millikin Company. He was a member of Salem Church of God.
Survivors include his sons, Dale Stancil (Lisa) and Dwayne Stancil (Janice), all of Six Mile, grandchildren include Jason Merck (Ashley), Clarissa Crenshaw (Tim), Jacob Stancil (Abby) and Ashley Cox; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Laverne McGaha of Six Mile.
A graveside service was held Jan. 2 at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens, with burial following.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rainey Hospice House, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.
Berry Holcombe
Easley — Mr. Clarence Berry Holcombe, 54, husband of Mona Lisa Peele Holcombe, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015, at his home.
Born in Pickens County, the son of Johnny Holcombe and Betty Jean Standridge, Mr. Holcombe was a construction superintendent and a member of Arial Baptist Church. He was a U.S. Army National Guard veteran with 21 years of service.
Surviving, in addition to his wife, father and stepmother, Pat, are a son, Matthew Jerred Holcombe of Easley; a daughter, Jessica Anne Holcombe of the home; a sister, Tamela Joens-Porter (Randell) of Simpsonville; and two grandchildren, Jerred and Jonathan Holcombe. Mr. Holcombe was predeceased by a son, Barry Jonathan Holcombe.
Funeral services were held Jan. 2 at Arial Baptist Church, with Rev. Danny Parton officiating, with burial following in Robinson Memorial Gardens with military honors.
Memorials may be made to the Arial Baptist Church Building Fund, 618 Rice Road, Easley, SC 29640.
Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown is assisting the family.
Kay Dodgens
Easley — Cathleen “Kay” Woody Dodgens, 82, of Hamilton Street, and wife of the late Samuel “Ford” Dodgens, passed away Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016.
Born in Marion, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Virgil and Maphra Irene Webb Woody.
Mrs. Dodgens was retired from the Arial Plant of Alice Manufacturing. The hobbies she loved the most were playing Bingo, reading, bird watching and shopping.
Surviving are her children, Steve Proctor (Brenda) and Lynn Harbin, all of Easley; four grandchildren, Tyler Proctor, Kelli Proctor, Cody Harbin and Amanda Owens; 13 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Richard K. Woody of Easley and Kenneth F. Woody of Belton.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a son-in-law, Mike Harbin and a sister, Wanda Hyman.
Funeral services were held Jan. 5 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following in Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
Flowers will be accepted. Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown is assisting the family.
Bill Gilstrap
Easley — Mr. William Johnny “Bill” Gilstrap, 84, passed away Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016, at Richard Campbell Veteran’s Nursing Home.
Born in Pickens County, the son of the late William Benson and Mammie Susan Medlin Gilstrap, Mr. Gilstrap retired from Pride Mechanical and was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Korean War.
Surviving are a son, William David Gilstrap of Greenville; and four sisters, Willa Mae Gilstrap of Pickens, Lucille Dillard and Nellie Sue Lingerfelt, both of Easley, and Annie Ruth Barrett of Greenville. In addition to his parents, Mr. Gilstrap was predeceased by a sister, Odis James.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 6, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, with Rev. Dr. David Gallamore officiating. Burial will follow in Robinson Memorial Gardens with military honors.
Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road is assisting the family.
Fulton “Doc” Holliday
Liberty — Fulton “Doc” Holliday, 82, passed away on Jan. 4, 2016, in Greenville.
Fulton was born in Liberty on Oct. 26, 1933. He was preceded in death by his father Leonard Holliday, mother Gladys Mae Holliday, sister Martha Lou Mattison, daughter Peggy Diane and son Lance Corporal Randy F. Holliday.
He retired from Coca-Cola, where he worked many years as a mechanic, and was well known throughout the area for his work on tractors.
He leaves to cherish his sweet memories his loving wife Sybil, daughter and son-in-law Angie and Alan King, daughter and son-in-law Wanda and Chad Wilson, grandchildren Eric, Jake, Alexis and Anna, sister Elaine Steen, and brother and sister-in-law Kinard and Frances Holliday.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Thursday Jan. 7, at Calvary Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Liberty Mortuary.
The family will be at the home of Angie and Alan King, 217 Pinedale Road, Liberty. Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to the Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 8008 Liberty Highway, Liberty SC 29657.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Richard Ray Robinson
Liberty — Richard Ray Robinson, 76, of 830 Melton Road, died Friday, Jan. 1, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born in Brushy Creek, Ky., he was the husband of Carole Compton Robinson and a son of the late Elcain and Minta Mae Lowe Robinson. He was a member at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Piedmont.
Surviving in addition to his wife are two daughters, Debbie Vaughn (Seith) of Liberty and Lisa Fernandez (Fernando) of Ocala, Fla.; a son, David Robinson (Alisha) of Liberty; four sisters, Maxine Blackburn of Anthony, Fla., Peggy Compton of Americus, Ga., and Eula Hernandez and Sharon Yongue, both of Ocala, Fla.; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers.
Graveside services to honor the life of Mr. Robinson will be held Thursday, Jan. 7, at 1 p.m. at Liberty Memorial Gardens. No visitation is planned.
The family will be at their respective homes. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Roy D. Ramey
Easley — Roy David Ramey, 78, husband of the late Mary Lou Holder Ramey, passed from this life on Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Roy was born in Pickens County, son of the late W.C. and Lillian Reeves Ramey. He was retired from Alice Manufacturing Company in the woodshop. He was a member of the Followers of Christ Church.
Survivors include his sons, Wayne Ramey (Laura) of Easley and Ronnie Ramey of Williamston; four grandchildren and a sister, Sue Ellison of Six Mile.
In addition to his parents and wife, Roy was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth Ramey, three brothers and two sisters.
Services were held Jan. 5 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel, with burial following at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Easley.
Courier Obituaries 12-30-15
The Reverend Alvin Southerland
Pickens — Alvin Southerland, 87, husband of the late Lyda Virginia Hendricks Southerland went to be with the Lord Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, at his home.
Mr. Southerland was born in Pickens County, son of the late Minnie Lewis Southerland and Elighue Southerland.
The Rev. Southerland was a builder and a member of Gilead Baptist Church.
Survivors include four daughters, Elaine Porter (Gene) of Pickens, Virginia Richardson (Terry) of Illinois, Tammy Harrand (Leonard) of Michigan and Mitzi Jones (Larry) of Taylors; three sons, Randall Alvin Southerland of Wisconsin, Gregory Southerland (Marie) of North Carolina and Rodney Southerland (Sue) of Mauldin; daughter-in-law Kaye Southerland of Greenville; one brother and five sisters; 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Services were held Dec. 26 at the Gilead Baptist Church sanctuary, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Garden.
He was predeceased by his wife, parents, one son, Michael Wayne Southerland, one brother, Brandon Southerland, and one sister, Dorothy Hudson.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the missions at Gilead Baptist Church, P.O. Box 464, Pickens SC 29671.
Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Southerland family.
Harold E. “Bud” Craig
Central — Harold Emmon “Bud” Craig, 89, of 110 Owens Circle, husband for 69 years of Edna Owens Craig, died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015.
Born in Central, he was a son of the late Jim H. and Nell Senn Craig. Bud was a retired textile employee, a U.S. Army Veteran of WWII, a member of Lodge AFM No. 229 in Central and a member of Cannon Memorial Baptist Church.
Surviving in addition to his wife of the home are a son, Tony H. Craig of Central; sisters, Betty Sanders of Central and Jo Faye Browning of Barnwell; grandchildren, Michael A. (Nancy) Craig of Norris and Joseph J. (Carolyn) Craig of Central; great-grandchildren, Wade Craig, Logan Craig, Justin Craig and Kayla Roach; and a great-great grandchild, Bayler.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by brothers, Edward Craig and George Jackson “Jack’ Craig; sisters, Hazel Fowler, Jean Brooks and Margaret Kinsey.
Funeral services were held Dec. 28 at Cannon Memorial Baptist Church with the Revs. Darren Rood and Randy Perry officiating followed, followed by burial in Mt. Zion Cemetery in Central.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonruneralhomes.com or at the funeral home.
Melvin Cobb
Pickens — Melvin Cobb, 85, husband of Vallie Mae Powell Cobb, went to be with the Lord Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015, at his home.
Mr. Cobb was born in Mountain Rest, and a son of the late Dasie Wilbanks Cobb and Bry Cobb.
Mr. Cobb was a truck driver for more than 25 years. He loved working in his garden and repairing small engines. He loved his family and grandchildren dearly.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years; one daughter, Lesa Mae Cobb Wimpey of Pickens; two sisters, Myrtle Cobb Fowler of Walhalla and Lillie Mae Cobb Smith (Harold) of Walhalla; one brother, Jackie “Jr” Cobb (Frances) of Easley; and three grandchildren, Melissa Faith Wimpey, Matthew Lee Wimpey and Melvin William Ephriam Cobb, all of Pickens.
Services were held Dec. 27 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel, officiated by the Rev. H. C. Couch, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
Active pallbearers consisted of Charles Aiken and members of the Men’s Sunday School Class of Antioch Baptist Church. Honorary escort was the Senior Mother’s Class, Hellen Morgan’s Class and also Judy Keasler and Thaylia Oberstar.
Mr. Cobb was predeceased by his parents, one daughter, Kathie Louise Cobb Bishop, and two brothers, Robert Cobb and Bill Cobb.
JoAnn Edwards
Liberty — Sara JoAnn Spearman Edwards, 73, of 600 Liberty Highway, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 25, 2015.
Born in Central, she was the widow of Larry Clinton Edwards and a daughter of the late Furman and Josie James Spearman.
She retired from the Quilt Gallery and was a member of Liberty Wesleyan Church.
Surviving are a stepdaughter, Barbara Perry of Pickens; a stepson, Michael Edwards of the home; three grandchildren, Ashley Frazier, Alicia Perry, and Tim Edwards; three great-grandchildren, Jada and Kenley Frazier, and Madalyn-Reece Edwards; also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.
Graveside services to honor the life of Mrs. Edwards were held Dec. 27 at Westview Cemetery. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Carrie Pilgrim
Liberty — Carrie Cope Pilgrim, 82, of 917 Breazeale Road, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, at her residence.
Born in Cateechee, she was a daughter of the late John and Violet Powell Cope.
She retired from Mayfair Mill and was a member of Rice’s Creek Baptist Church.
Surviving are her husband, Marvin Pilgrim of the home; a daughter, Debra Barrett (Tommy) of Liberty; two sons, Jimmy Pilgrim (Susan), and Jerry Pilgrim (Sandra) all of Liberty; a sister, Mary Galloway Dove of Pickens; five grandchildren, Chanté Bolding, Laura Wood, Leann Pilgrim, Kimberly Turner, and Nichole Finley; six great-grandchildren, Alex, Dustin, Alyssa, Jordan, Dillon, and one that will be here any day, Chantz.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Pilgrim were held Dec. 27 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, followed by burial at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Harry McAlister
Easley — Mr. Harrison Eugene “Harry” McAlister, 70, husband of Linda Dillard McAlister, passed away Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, at his home.
Born in Greenville County, a son of the late Edward Harley and Marie Allen McAlister, Mr. McAlister had a passion for classic cars and trucks. He retired from Mayfair Mills-Pickens Division and was a member of Cedar Rock Baptist Church.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 32 years, are three daughters, Penny Winchester (Donald) and Crystal Humphrey (Bobby), all of Easley, and Kim Humphrey (Billy) of Star; two brothers, Thomas and Stevie McAlister; a sister, Stella Byars; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Mr. McAlister was predeceased by two brothers, Bobby and Red McAlister; and a sister, Evelyn Raines.
Funeral services were held Dec. 28 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with Rev. Wayne Garmon officiating, with burial following 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.
Allyson Mae Hendrix Hamilton
Six Mile — Allyson Mae Hendrix Hamilton, 56, wife of William “Billy” Hamilton went to be with the Lord Monday Dec. 21, 2015, at Cannon Memorial Hospital.
Mrs. Hamilton was born in Davenport, Iowa, and loved her family dearly.
Survivors include her husband of 36 years, one daughter, April Mae Hamilton of Pickens; one son, Billy Joe Hamilton (Tequela) of Central; three sisters, Brenda Snider of Seneca, Wanda Hendrix of North Carolina and Karen Hendrix of Seneca; three grandchildren, Will and Jim Hamilton of Central and Talai Hamilton of the home. Mrs. Hamilton was predeceased by her parents and one brother, Jimmy Hendrix.
A memorial service for Mrs. Hamilton will be held at 1 p.m. Jan. 9, at the Roper Building in Six Mile.
The family will be at the home.
Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Hamilton family.
Courier Obituaries 12-23-15
FRANCES SUMMEY
LIBERTY — Frances Patterson Summey, 89, of 578 Five Forks Road, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015, at her home surrounded by her loving family.[cointent_lockedcontent]
Born in Liberty, she was the widow of Roy Benjamin Summey Sr., and a daughter of the late Robert Pearson and Nancy Crowe Patterson.
She was a member of Calumet Baptist Church and loved to do ceramics.
Surviving are two daughters, Nancy Hope Summey of Easley, and Cathy Summey Oliver of Liberty; a son, Ben Summey (Donna) of Easley; two sisters, Patsy Greene of Gaffney, and Hazel Andrews of Lincolnton, N.C.; six grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a son, John Summey.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Summey “MaHank” were held Dec. 18 at Calumet Baptist Church, with burial following at Westview Cemetery.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Open Arms Hospice, 1836 W. Georgia Road, Simpsonville SC 29680.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
DOROTHY MAE HASTINGS GANTT
PICKENS — Dorothy Mae Hastings Gantt, 94, wife of the late John Valley “Jack” Gantt, passed from this life Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, at Brookdale Nursing Center.
Mrs. Gantt was born in Dimmitt, Texas, daughter of the late Joseph Wallace and Mary Jane Dixon Hastings.
Mrs. Gantt was a former secretary of Grace United Methodist Church and Pickens Soil Conservation Service. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pickens.
Survivors include a son, “Russ” Gantt of Pickens; a daughter, Mary Jo Edens (Randall) of Easley and three grandchildren, Lyndsey Jo Edens Sullivan (Greg) of Seneca; Benjamin Russell Edens (Jessica) of Easley; and Erin Jena Edens Wade (Josh) of Easley.
A private service was held.
Memorials may be made to Lutheran Hospice, 429 North Main Street Suite 3, Greenville, South Carolina 29601
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
DEBORAH HENSON HENDRICKS
LIBERTY — Mrs. Deborah Henson “Debbie” Hendricks, 61, wife of the late Roger C. Hendricks, passed away Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015, at her home.
Born in Spartanburg County, the daughter of the late James Henson and Helen Isler Whiteside, Mrs. Hendricks retired from Dollar General and was a member of Tri-City Baptist Church.
Surviving are a son, Chris Tesnar (Dixie), and a daughter, April Duncan (James); two brothers, Mike and Roger Henson; and two grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Hendricks was predeceased by a brother, James Henson.
Memorial services will be held 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.
PAT WINCHESTER
PICKENS — Patrick Dale “Pat” Winchester, 67, husband of Betti Mentrikoski Winchester, passed from this life on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, at his home.
Pat was born in Greenville, son of the late Calvin L. and Pearline Trotter Winchester. He was retired from Ohio-Richmond Gear in Liberty after 40 plus years of service. Pat was a U.S. Air Force veteran, and he was an avid Pickens Blue Flame sports supporter. He was also a great supporter of the Multiple Sclerosis Association, where he participated in walks over the past 14 years in Greenville, Charleston and Charlotte, raising donations for the cause. In addition to walking as a hobby, Pat loved motorcycles, cars and attending car shows.
Survivors include his wife, Betti M. Winchester of the home, and a number of extended family and friends, as well as his faithful dog, “Harley.”
Funeral services were held Dec. 20 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
Memorials may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at http://www.nationalmssociety.org/ or Pickens County Meals on Wheels at http://www.pcmow.org/.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
MARTHA ANN MCJUNKINS REYNOLDS
PICKENS — Martha Ann McJunkins Reynolds, 91, wife of the late John Franklin Reynolds, passed from this life Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, at St. Francis Hospital.
Mrs. Reynolds was born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late William Otis and Mary Melissa Masters McJunkins.
Mrs. Reynolds was a former seamstress at Swirl in Easley. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. Not only was Mrs. Reynolds a church member at Pleasant Grove, she was part of the Ladies Sunday School Class, the W.M.U., a teacher for the Beginners Class, a former church clerk and was a cook at the Old Pleasant Grove two-room school.
Survivors include two sons, William Reynolds (Pat) and John Thomas Reynolds (Judy) of Pickens; grandchildren, John Thomas Reynolds Jr., Andrew Wyatt Reynolds, Amanda Turner, Melissa Lynne Hines, Robert Earl Reynolds and a sister, Mae Howard of Pickens.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Reynolds was predeceased by her daughter, Clara Ann Reynolds.
Funeral services were held Dec. 21 in the Dillard Funeral Home Chapel.
Memorials may be made to the W.M.U. of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 620 Pleasant Grove Road, Pickens, South Carolina 29671.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
JOHN DAVID PITTS
DULUTH Ga. — John David Pitts, 72, of Duluth, Ga., died Dec. 15, 2015.
Mr. Pitts was a member of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church. For many years he was with National Life Insurance Company as a staff manager. A U. S. Army veteran, he was also a lifetime member of the American Legion in Duluth, Ga. In 1995, he retired from Rock-Tenn Corporation, where he was the chief pilot. He started the aviation department and ran it for more than 20 years before his retirement.
Preceded in death by his parents, Able Grant Pitts and Addie Jackson Pitts, he was a loving husband to his wife of 53 years, Betty Pitts of Duluth, Ga.; and loving father to daughters, Angela Darlene Pitts of Duluth, Ga., Laura Lynn Pitts Cozens (Hal) of Orlando, Fla. He is also survived by a brother, Charles Pitts (Rachael) of Austell, Ga.; sisters, Ruth Hughes of Seneca, Edna Reese (Bob) of Piedmont; granddaughters, Megan Jackson (Dustin) of Martin, Ga., Mandi Vaughn of Lavonia, Ga.; great-grandchildren, Savannah Jackson and Maddox Jackson, both of Martin, Ga.; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Dec. 18 at Bill Head Funeral Home Duluth Chapel, with Rev. Tandy Mayo officiating. Burial followed at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.billheadfuneralhome.com.
MARK HOXIT
PICKENS — Vesse Mark Hoxit, 44, passed from this life Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born in Pickens, Mark is a son of Palmer Hoxit Sr. and the late Eliza Jane Snyder Hoxit. He was employed with Kent Wool and was a member of Rocky Bottom Baptist Church.
Survivors include his father of Pickens; a brother, David Hoxit (Cathy); and sisters, Glenda Cassell (David), Ella Mae Reynolds and Mary Mauldin (Timmy), all of Pickens.
Funeral services were held Dec. 20 at Mt. Carmel Number 1 Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com.
Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society (cancer.org).
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Hoxit family.
ROBERT JAMES CHAPPELL
PICKENS — Robert James Chappell, 68, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015, at St. Francis Hospital.
Mr. Chappell was born in Pickens County, a son of the late William B. and Clara Belle Evatt Chappell.
He was a self-employed carpenter, loved hunting and fishing and was a member of Kings Grove Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Treva Ragsdale Chappell; son, Jimmy Dale Chappell of Liberty; stepson, James W. Jones, Jr. of Lawrenceville, Ga..; step-daughters, Tracey Hurst of Seymour, Tenn., and Tara Griffin of Dallas, Ga.; one brother, Harry Chappell; two sisters, Christine Galloway and Edna Lyday; two grandchildren, Tiffany and Landon Chappell; one great-grandson, Kawliga Malpass.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Lisa Michelle Chappell; and three sisters, Cecile Oliver, Frances Chappell and Mary Johnson.
Funeral services were held Dec. 21, in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, with burial following in Kings Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at the funeral home.
DONNIE FOSTER
EASLEY — Charles Donald Foster, 76, of Easley, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015, at Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home.
Born in Greenville, he was the son of the late Charles Luther Foster and Eva Sue Hinton of Greenville. He was a U.S. Army veteran and retired from John D. Hollingsworth. He was a member of Easley First Baptist Church and a member of the E.R. Eller Sunday School Class.
He is survived by the mother of his two children, Marlene Foster, a son, Joey Foster of Easley, and a daughter, Shannon Ballew, husband Alan, and two grandchildren, Adam and Addison Ballew of Easley.
A 1958 graduate of Parker High School and North Greenville College, he loved life and loved to shag. He was inducted into the Greenville Shaggers Hall of Fame. He was loved by many friends who may have known him as “Redfox.” He was an all-around athlete an avid Gamecock fan.
Services were held Dec. 19 in the Robinson Funeral Home chapel on Powdersville Road, with Dr. John Adams officiating, with committal service following at Robinson Memorial Gardens.
Much appreciation to Richard M. Campbell’s nursing staff, and Patriots Hospice staff for loving and caring for our dad.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Research at www.michaeljfox.org. Your contribution is matched if donated by Dec. 31.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
THELMA F. FLETCHER
EASLEY— Thelma Reeves Fletcher, 76, of Brushy Creek Road and wife of the late Richard B. Fletcher, passed away Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015.
Born in Pickens County, she was the daughter of the late Fields and Sarah Breazeale Reeves.
Mrs. Fletcher was retired from the Greenville County School District and was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church.
Surviving are her son, Randy Orr of Piedmont; grandchildren, Jason and Kevin Orr; and brothers, Carl Reeves of Greenville, Ray Reeves of Pelzer and Bill Reeves of Welford.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by sisters, Etta Mae McRee and Edna Cox and brothers, Adolphus, Talmadge, Charles and Edward Reeves.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 23, at 1 p.m. in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial to follow in Greenville Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 11:30 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. at the funeral home.
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.
BUNT MORGAN
PICKENS— Jesse Holmes “Bunt” Morgan, 72, husband of the late Jane Morgan, passed from this life Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015, in Greenville.
Jesse was born in Pickens County, son of the late Jesse H. and Rachel Anderson Morgan. He was retired as a bricklayer and was a member of Morningstar Baptist Church.
Survivors include his uncle, Bobby Morgan, and aunts, Betty Dooley and Willyne Butler Scott, and his caregiver and cousin, Betty Stephens (Tommy).
Services were held Dec. 22 at Dillard Funeral Home, with a graveside service following.
Memorials may be made to Morningstar Baptist Church, 111 North Cedar Rock Road, Easley, SC 29640.
VERA MAE POWELL CASSELL
PICKENS — Vera Mae Powell Cassell, 86, wife of the late I.V. Cassell of Sunset community and the daughter of Wick and Annis Powell Powell of Rosman, N.C., passed away Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015.
Ms. Cassell was also predeceased by two sisters, Beulah Powell Crowe and Edith Powell Cassell, four brothers, Roman, Clifford, and Glenn and Jack Powell, all of Rosman, N.C., and two son-in-laws, W.A. Cantrell and Charles Stewart.
Ms. Cassell is survived by two daughters, Linda Gail Cassell Cantrell of Pickens and Helen Renee Cassell Stewart of Pickens, and a son, Stanley Cassell of Sunset, seven grandchildren, Roslyn Cantrell Holcombe (Chris), Melissa Stewart Nicholson (Gary), Reginald Cantrell (Jennifer), Shane Cassell, Richard Cantrell (Stacy), Crystal Stewart Stone (Bradley) and Trenton Cassell, and eight great-grandchildren, Abigail Holcombe Baker (Brett), Seth Nicholson, Parker Cassell, Emmalee Stone, Maggy Holcombe, Colby Nicholson, Ivey Stone Parker Cassell and Jessa Cantrell.
Ms. Cassell was a retiree of Sangamo in Pickens and a member of Holly Springs Baptist Church. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and listening to gospel music.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, at Dillard Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
The family will be at the home of a daughter, Linda Cantrell.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Cassell family.
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Courier Obituaries 12-16-15
Don W. League
Easley — Mr. Donald Wayne “Don” League, 82, husband of Frances Haynes League, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2015, at his home.
Born in Pickens County, a son of the late William Claude and Mattie Rankin League, Mr. League retired from Mayfair Mills-Glenwood Division with 45 years of service and later retired from Pro-Care RX with 26 years of service. He was a member of Glenwood Baptist Church.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 64 years, are a son, Kenneth League of Easley; a daughter, Cynthia Jackson (Damon) of Liberty; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Mr. League was predeceased by a daughter, Vickie Jones; a brother, William “Bill” League; a sister, Margaret Jones; and a grandson, Brad Fowler.
No services are planned.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Mildred D. Looper
Easley — Mrs. Mildred Dean Looper, 89, wife of Leonard Pickens Looper, passed away Thursday, Dec. 10, 2015, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Greenville County, a daughter of the late Allen Clark and Lillian Vess Dean, Mrs. Looper was a graduate of Parker High School and a homemaker. She was a member of Easley First United Methodist Church.
Surviving, in addition to her husband of 67 years, are a daughter, Anna L. McWhorter (Michael) of Easley; one grandson, Christopher McWhorter (Michelle); and two great-grandchildren, Lily and Clara. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Looper was predeceased by two brothers and three sisters. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.
Graveside services were held Dec. 14 at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to Easley First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 589, Easley, SC 29641, or to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Joel G. Hughes Jr.
and Angie Hughes
Spartanburg — Joel G. Hughes Jr. passed from this life on Dec. 14, 2015, in Spartanburg. He was born on May 11, 1922, in Liberty, to the late Joel and Delenia Ellis Hughes.
Angie Ellenburg Hughes passed away on Nov. 9, 2015, in Spartanburg; She was born on Aug. 17, 1928, in Liberty, to the late J.T. and Katie Parsons Ellenburg.
Joel and Angie spent a long and fulfilling life together. Both graduated from Liberty High School, Angie as salutatorian in 1945. They had been married for 70 years on Oct. 6, 2015. After Joel returned from the Army, where he served with the occupation forces in Osaka, Japan, he began working at T.E. Jones and Sons furniture store. They later worked together, Joel as manager and part-owner and Angie as bookkeeper and interior designer for the store. Their devotion to each other continued after retirement with their winters spent in the Keys. They moved to Spartanburg in 1998 to be closer to their daughter, Gail. They were members of First Baptist Church of Liberty.
They are survived by their daughter Gail Hughes Allen of Spartanburg; two granddaughters, Whitney Allen Hastings (Ted) of Silver Spring, Md. and Amy Allen Hinson (Devin) of Greenville; and five great-grandchildren, Ella, Harper, and Connor Hastings and Joel and Daniel Hinson. They were predeceased by their son-in-law, Danny E. Allen. Joel is survived by a sister Grace Rampey (Joe) of Liberty; He was predeceased by four sisters and three brothers.
Funeral services for Mr. Hughes will be held on Friday, Dec. 18, at 2 p.m. at Liberty Mortuary Chapel in Liberty. Visitation will be held after the services. Private funeral services were conducted for Mrs. Hughes on Nov. 13.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Danny E. Allen Memorial Scholarship from the Upstate Workforce Futures Corporation, P.O. Box 5666, Spartanburg, S.C. 29304 or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent to www.libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is assisting the family.
Idelle J. Moore
Central — Idelle Jackson Moore, 100, of 174 Knollview Road, widow of Noah Berry “Smokey Joe” Moore, died Friday, Dec. 11, 2015, at her home.
Born in Orangeburg County, she was a daughter of the late Herbert and Hattie Wiggins Jackson. She was a homemaker and a member of Lawrence Chapel United Methodist Church.
Surviving are a daughter, Emily (Wallace) Smith of the home; grandchildren, Wally (Suzanne) Smith, Steve Smith and Doris (Danny) Elrod; great grandchildren, Becky (Tommy) Durham, Brittany (Amos) Smith, Jacob Smith and Jennifer Galbreath; 10 great-great grandchildren; and one great-great-great grandchild.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by a daughter, Margorie Moore; brother, Oville Jackson; sisters, Lyta Belton, Lona McKelsey and Varnelle Moore; and a great-great grandchild, Hayden Parker.
Graveside services were held Dec. 13 in Mt. Zion Cemetery in Central, with Rev. Dr. Boyce Whitman officiating, following a procession that began at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at the funeral home.
Courier Obituaries 12-9-15
ALLEN MAHAFFEY
EASLEY — Cecil Allen Mahaffey, 66, of 107 S. 4th St., passed away on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015, at St. Francis Hospital.
Born in Liberty, he was a son of the late Heyward and Helen Gilstrap Mahaffey.
He was a member of First Baptist Church, Liberty.
Surviving are one sister, Becky Stokes of the home, and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many special friends.
Funeral services to honor Allen’s life were held Dec. 6 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel, with burial following at Liberty Memorial Gardens.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorials are requested to PCBDSN, P.O. Box 1308, Easley, SC 29641. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
WAYNE DODGENS
LIBERTY — Wayne B. Dodgens, 81, of 185 Hamlin Road, passed away peacefully Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville.
Born in Pickens, he was the widower of Virnell Virginia Leslie Dodgens and a son of the late Furman Alfred “Baldy” and Dolly Beatrice Lesley Dodgens. He was a retired self-employed contractor and previously owned Wayne Dodgens Builders. He loved hunting and fishing and was of the Baptist faith.
Surviving are two daughters, Wanda Crotts (Rev. Willie Crotts) of Greenville and Lynn McCall (James) of Liberty; a brother, Van Dodgens (Shirley) of Six Mile; six grandchildren; and numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by four sisters and seven brothers.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Dodgens will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Graceland West Cemetery in Greenville.
The family will be at the home. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
HANSEL J. “HANK” SIMMONS
EASLEY — Mr. Hansel John “Hank” Simmons, 89, husband of the late Frances Youngblood Simmons, passed away Monday, Nov. 30, 2015, at his home.
Born in Pickens County, a son of the late John McDaniel and Clovie Jane Lesley Simmons, Mr. Simmons retired from Singer Manufacturing of Pickens with 40 years of service, and was a member of Cross Roads Baptist Church. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in World War II.
Surviving are two sons, Gerald Dale Simmons (Sherril) of Easley and Wendell Jerry Simmons (Melinda) of Liberty; two daughters, Vickie G. Gonzalez and Tabitha F. Wohlever (Jimmy), all of Easley; two brothers, Charles and Fulton Simmons, both of Easley; eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Simmons was predeceased by a son, John Terrell Simmons, and three brothers, Robert, Elzie and Ilar Simmons.
Graveside services were held Dec. 3 at Hillcrest Memorial Park, with military honors.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
MARK ANDREW HOLCOMB
SIX MILE — Mark Andrew Holcomb, 23, of Six Mile, and Cortland, N.Y., passed away Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015, at home.
Andrew was the son of Donna McAlister Holcomb of Six Mile and Mark and Sherry Holcomb of Cortland, N.Y.
He was a 2011 graduate of Cortland Jr./Sr. High School in Cortland, N.Y. He was a kind, caring young man who loved fishing, hiking and spending time with his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Andrew is survived by two sisters, Jennifer Stewart of Six Mile and Ashley Lockard of Charleston; a stepbrother, Ryan O’Donnell; and stepsister, Julia Goddard of Cortland, N.Y; grandmother, Edith McAlister of Six Mile; grandparents, Horace and Betty Holcomb of Virgil, N.Y.; nieces, Lauren, Kayla and Emma of Six Mile and Kiley and Madalin Lockard of Charleston; aunts, Marlene Roach of Six Mile and Patricia O’Donnell of Homer, N.Y.; an uncle, James (Valerie) Holcomb of Homer, N.Y.; cousins, Cody Roach, Joshua McAlister, Austin, Kevin and Steven Clark, and Michael and Matthew Holder, all of Six Mile, Kandi Holder of Wilmington, Del., Jennifer Wyant and Joe O’Donnell of Cortland, N.Y., and Tyler and Nick Holcomb of Homer, N.Y.
Andrew was predeceased by his grandfather, Charles McAlister; aunts, Patricia Manley and Pamela Clark; and cousin, Justin Roach.
A memorial service for Andrew was held at New Beginnings Baptist Church in Six Mile on Nov. 30.
JOAN CORA ST. JOCK O’SHEAL
TAMASSEE — Joan Cora St. Jock O’Sheal, 81, wife of Bobby O’Sheal, of 465 O’Sheal Drive, Tamassee, passed away Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015, at Oconee Memorial Hospital.
Born in Hackensack, N.J., Mrs. O’Sheal was the daughter of the late Gordon Gibbs and Mildred Pearl Haggert St. Jock. She was a physical education teacher in the public school system for grades K-12 in Florida. Mrs. O’Sheal was a visiting teacher with the Oconee and Anderson County Head Start Program.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. O’Sheal is survived by her daughter, Jan Grieve; three grandchildren, Cassie, Shawn, and Christine; nine great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren, Bucky and Robin O’Sheal; a goddaughter, Sylvia Jean; four sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family is at the residence.
ANNETTE MCCLURE PAYNE
PICKENS — Annette McClure Payne, 58, passed from this life Monday, Dec. 6, 2015, at McCall Hospice House.
Ms. Payne was born in Greenville County, daughter of the late Henry and Annie Mae Anders McClure.
She was a nurse assistant and a cook at nursing homes in the Pickens County area.
Survivors include a daughter, Brandi Payne of Pickens; two brothers, Lindsey (Khristy) McClure of Pickens and William McClure of Greenville; and her beloved dog, WeeWee.
In addition to her parents, Ms. Payne was predeceased by her son, Andrew Payne; a grandson, Raygen Miller; a brother, Frank McClure; and a sister, Frances Thompson.
The family will receive friends from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens, with funeral service following at 3:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.
Memorials may be made to Eastatoe Baptist Church in Sunset.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com. The family members are at their respective homes.
Courier Obituaries 12-2-15
BENJI REYNOLDS
EASLEY — Wade Benjamin “Benji” Reynolds, 49, of 302 Ross Ave., died Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, following injuries sustained in an accident.
Born in Greenville, he was a son of Brady Benjamin Presley and Martha Evett Reynolds.
Surviving in addition to his parents of the home are two sisters, Kim Reece and Shana Owens, both of Easley; two brothers, Tim Reynolds and Brady F. Presley, both of Easley; and several nieces and nephews.
Graveside services to honor Benji’s life were held Nov. 28 at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements
JACK W. “FROSTY” BLALOCK
EASLEY — Mr. Jack Wallace “Frosty” Blalock, 84, husband of Vivian Holder Blalock, passed away Monday, Nov. 23, 2015, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Pickens County, a son of the late William Robert and Eva Alexander Blalock, Mr. Blalock retired from Alice Manufacturing with 56 years of service and was a member of Enon Baptist Church. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Korean War.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 61 years, are a son, Roger A. Blalock (Sharon) of Easley; a daughter, Sharon Rutz (Don) of Easley; a sister, Carolyn McAlister of Easley; and seven grandchildren, Heather Green (Jamie), Michael Blalock (Jennifer), Candice Owens, Jessica Brissey, Sierra West, Amber Ramey and Trinity Smith. In addition to his parents, Mr. Blalock was predeceased by a brother, James Blalock, and two sisters, Helen Simpson and Bea Cartee.
Funeral services were held Nov. 27 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following in Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Flowers will be accepted, and memorials may be made to Enon Baptist Church, 871 Enon Church Road, Easley, SC 29640.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
RICHARD MCCAUL
CENTRAL — Richard Lee McCaul, 75, of 100 Abbie Lane, passed away peacefully on Nov. 25, 2015, at the Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.
Born in Jacksonville, Fla., he was a son of the late Homer and Mittie Bostick McCaul. He retired from the School District of Pickens County, where he worked as a custodian at Liberty Elementary School, and was a member of Golden Creek Baptist Church. He loved motorcycles and camping.
Surviving are his wife, Rosemary Adkins McCaul of the home; a daughter, Wanda Ann McCaul Blair of White Springs, Fla.; a sister, Jewell Dantzler of Jacksonville, Fla.; three sisters in law, Betty McCaul of Bradenton, Fla., Mae McCaul of Bend, Ore., and Laura West of Cairo, Ga.; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a son, Richard McCaul, Jr.
Memorial services to honor Richard’s life were held Nov. 30 at Golden Creek Baptist Church. Burial is private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Golden Creek Baptist Church, Family Life Center-Building Fund 477 Golden Creek Road, Liberty SC, 29657.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
EDWARD L. DILLARD
SIX MILE — Edward Luther Dillard, 85, died from an extended illness Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015.
Mr. Dillard was born in Six Mile on June 5, 1930, to Alfred Luther and Louella Bell Dillard. He was the grandson of James Thomas Dillard, who purchased the 88 acres on both sides of the Pickens/Easley road now known as Hillcrest Memorial Park on Nov. 23, 1906. The two-story house still stands adjacent to Hillcrest cemetery, the homeplace of James T. Dillard and grandson Edward L. Dillard.
He was a 1947 graduate of Six Mile High School. Edward completed his education at Clemson University in agricultural science. He was district claims manager for National Grange Insurance Company and then became the branch manager for Siebels Bruce Insurance Company in Greenville. Later, he opened his own claims business, Diversified Insurance Adjusters Inc. in Greenville. He held various offices over the years in both the South Carolina Association and the South Carolina Claims Association. He was the only claims man appointed to the original Board of Governors of the South Carolina Reinsurance Facility. He served in this position for six years. He also served on the South Carolina Joint Underwriters Association for Medical Malpractice Insurance, the South Carolina Reinsurance Facility Claims Committee, as chairman of the Greenville/Spartanburg Arbitration Committee and on the Greenville Technical College Technical Board.
In addition to his civilian life, he was a veteran of the United States Air Force, a First Sergeant with the 169th Fighter Wing (SCANG) at McEntire Air National Guard Base. He was also a veteran of the Korean War, with a tour of duty in Europe.
He was married to Edna Cantrell Dillard for 60 years and was a member of Six Mile Baptist Church in Six Mile. Also surviving are two daughters and one son-in-law, Teresa Dillard Lesley (Lonnie — deceased) of Easley, and Denise Dillard Youngblood (John) of Greenville; six grandchildren, Scott (Bethany and great-grandson Landon) Boothe of Easley, Jeremiah (Lindsey) Boothe of Six Mile, Adam Boothe of Easley, Ashley Youngblood (Gary) Rhoden of Duncan, Stephanie Youngblood of Columbia, and Sara Youngblood of Greenville.
Edward was predeceased by four sisters and three brothers.
Services were held Nov. 29 at Hillcrest Mausoleum Chapel, with burial following in Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
He was very much loved by all of his family. He loved to farm on his land, and this tradition will carry on through each generation.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Six Mile Baptist Church, 149 N. Main St., Six Mile SC 29682 or Hospice of South Carolina 900 E. Main St., Easley SC 29640. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Dillard Family.
KATIE EVANS DUNCAN
EASLEY — Mrs. Katie Evans Duncan, 82, wife of the late Kenneth Wayne Duncan Sr., passed away Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015, at her home.
Born in Saluda, a daughter of the late Earl and Rosa Lee Rowe Evans, Mrs. Duncan was the co-founder of Palmetto Exterminating and a member of Geer Memorial Baptist Church.
Surviving are two sons, Kenneth Duncan Jr. (Darlene), and Keith Duncan (Linda), all of Easley; a brother, John Evans of Saluda; a sister, Rachel Lindler of Leesville; six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Duncan was predeceased by a son, Kirby Duncan; three brothers and two sisters.
Funeral services were held Nov. 28 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Chapel of Reflection Mausoleum of Robinson Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to Gideons International, P.O. Box 1625, Easley, SC 29641.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family
ALBERT “PETE” LESLEY
PICKENS — Albert “Pete” Lesley, 62, of Pickens, died Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Pete was born in Pickens County on Aug. 24, 1953, to Butler and Margaret Lesley.
Pete is survived by his wife, Sandra Lesley; daughter, Dana (Mitchell) Bowie; three grandchildren, Drake, Skye and Allisa; mother, Margaret Lesley; sister, Sharon (Danny) Shackelford; and two brothers, John Lesley and Mitch (Marie) Lesley.
A graveside service was held Dec. 1 at the Blue Ridge View Baptist Church cemetery in Pickens.
Condolences may be express at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, which is assisting the family.
NANCY ROSS WALSH
EASLEY — Nancy Margaret Ross Walsh, 75, of 400 Bella Vista Drive, Easley, passed away Friday, Nov. 27, 2015, at The Haven at Chanticleer.
Mrs. Walsh was born in Greenville on Aug. 29, 1940, to the late Clyde Milton and Christine Garrett Ross. She graduated from Greenville High School in 1958, from Anderson College in 1960 and from Mercer University in 1962. She was formerly employed as a patient representative at Greenville General Hospital. Mrs. Walsh was a member of Easley Presbyterian Church, where she was a founder of the EPC Kindergarten, a member of the Women of the Church, and was a Stephen Minister. She was also a member of the Pickens County Medical Auxiliary. Mrs. Walsh loved her family, church, and traveling.
Surviving are her husband, Dr. W. Carl Walsh of the home; two daughters, Tracy Lyn Walsh and Lauri Walsh Moore (Martin), all of Columbia; a brother, Clyde Milton “Mickey” Ross Jr. (Rita), of Greenville; a brother-in-law, S. Gray Walsh (Dee), of Greenville; and three grandchildren, Ross Martin Moore, John Bailey Moore and Lyndsay Meredith Moore.
Memorial services were held Nov. 29 at the Easley Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Christie Sweeny Gravely and the Rev. Dr. Bill Seel officiating.
The family requests no flowers. For those wishing to make a memorial donation, the family desires donations be made to either the Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust (CART) Fund of the Rotary Club; P.O. Box 1916, Sumter, SC 29151; or to the W. Carl Walsh Scholarship at Wofford College; 429 N. Church St., Spartanburg, SC 29303.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home Downtown, which is assisting the family.
KITTY O. MCALISTER
EASLEY — Kitty Oates McAlister, 77, of Smith Grove Road, passed away Monday Nov. 30, 2015, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.
Born in Easley on April 5, 1938, she was the daughter of the late William R. and Lily Southerland Oates.
Surviving are her children, Bruce McAlister of Greenville, Mitch McAlister of Easley, Cheryl Pryor of Belton, and Allen McAlister of Easley; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Patsy Soubeyroux of Charleston and Barbara Smith (Johnny) of Liberty; a brother, Edward Oates of Troutman, N.C.; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, James Oates.
The family would like to express their gratitude for her niece, Julie Smith, who was always there for her Aunt Kitty.
Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015, at 2 p.m. in Smith Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
DOROTHY G. WARD
EASLEY — Dorothy Golightly Ward, 92, of Easley, widow of Arial Estes Ward, passed from this life on Friday, Nov. 27, 2015.
Mrs. Ward was born in Pickens County, daughter of the late Charlie V. and Edith Sentell Golightly. She was retired from the Glenwood Plant of Mayfair Mills and was a member of Glenwood Wesleyan Church. Mrs. Ward loved her family very much.
Survivors include her son Tom Ward (Becky) of Easley, and her grandson Cameron Ward of Easley. She is also survived by a sister Mary Ethel Foster of Loganville, Ga.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Ward was preceded in death by five brothers and three sisters.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Please refer to dillardfunerals.com for future details.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made to Glenwood Wesleyan Church, 401 Hagood St., Easley, SC 29640.
ELEANOR HAWKINS
CLEMSON — Eleanor Hawkins, previously of 605 E. Main St., Union, passed away peacefully at Clemson Downs on Nov. 21, 2015.
She was born July 19, 1916, as Eleanor Merkel Schnepfe, the first born and last surviving of four daughters of Elsa Christine and Norman John Schnepfe of Edgewood, Md. She met her future husband, Randolph Hawkins, in Baltimore, where she was teaching and he was attending dental school. She became one of the multitudes of war brides married in the summer of 1942. She spent her war years as a Navy bride in Charleston and later Beaufort, with in-between years as a working “Rosie” at Edgewood Arsenal while her husband was serving in Panama.
After the war, she and Randolph returned to his family home in Union, where she became an active contributing member of the community and Grace United Methodist Church for the next 64 years. She re-established her teaching career and later, due to her love of books and reading, she transitioned to school librarian at Foster Park Elementary School where she remained until retirement in 1985. She believed one’s duty was to do for others. She lived this belief and was never idle. She cooked, sewed, knitted, smocked, painted, and needle-pointed for herself, her children, grand-children and finally for total strangers by knitting for the Merchant Marines, volunteering at Wallace Thompson Hospital and delivering Meals on Wheels well into her 80s.
Eleanor is survived by her daughters, Deborah Teeple, Christine Ehlies, and Mary Cecil Parker; and five grandchildren, William Paul Parker, Sarah Teeple Stone, Dylan Hall Parker, William Harry Ehlies and Timothy Randolph Ehlies. She was well loved and will be sorely missed.
Memorial services will be held at Grace United Methodist Church on Tuesday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m., with interment after the service. The family will receive visitors in the church parlor from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Holcombe Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Fisher House Foundation (fisherhouse.org) supporting the families of wounded veterans at P.O. Box 97229, Washington, DC, 20077, or donate to the Virgil Randolph Hawkins Scholarship Fund, PO Drawer 729, Union SC. 29379. Include with donation: in memory of Eleanor S. Hawkins, with acknowledgements sent to Debbie Teeple 255 N. Catherine St., Pickens SC 29671
JOE A. CHAPMAN
SUNSET — Joe Alton Chapman, 75, of 704 Mt. Bethel Road, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015, at his home.
Born in Sunset, he was a son of the late Johnson and Cleo Rogers Chapman.
He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and loved to talk on his CB, but most of all he loved his grandchildren and great-granddaughter.
Surviving are his wife, Geraldine Duncan Chapman of the home; a daughter, Vicky Farmer (Ronald) of Pickens; a sister, Johnnie Ann Chapman of Sunset; two grandchildren, Keri Jo Brock and her fiancé, Timothy Berry Chapman, and J.J. Brock (Tracey); and a great-granddaughter, Brysie Jo Brock.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Gene Chapman.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Chapman were held Nov. 27 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.