KENNETH ‘KEN’ RAY RAMEY

MARIETTA — Kenneth “Ken” Ray Ramey, 61, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, at Achieve Rehab and Nursing Center in Anderson.

Born Dec. 15, 1963, in Pickens County, Ken was the son of the late Woodrow James Ramey and Oconna Lycnia Arnold. Ken was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and camping.

Survivors include his children, Ashley Thompson of Elko, Nev.; grandchildren, Katherine, Miki, Jesse and Dakotah; brother, Jeff Ramey of Marietta; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Ramey was predeceased by a brother, James Ramey, and three sisters, Wanda Ramey, Carol Ramey and Lynn Ramey.

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

 

JOHN CAIRL HUFF III

EASLEY — John Cairl Huff III of Easley died unexpectedly Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, at his home.

Mr. Huff, known as Johnny to his family and friends, was 41.

Born in Philadelphia, Pa., he grew up in Central Florida, but spent most of his adult life in the Upstate.

He was the son of John C. Huff Jr. of Greenville and the late Patricia Ann Stockton. Besides his father and stepmother, Victoria Guest, he is survived by his son, Cuchulain Thompson Huff, and Cuchulain’s mom, Bianca Thompson, of Orlando, Fla.; sisters, Kelly Huff Fussell (Ed), Brenny Huff Bohne (Tom) and Neely Huff (Keith Worley) of Florida; stepsister, Elisa Storyk of Atlanta, Ga.; goddaughter and niece, Jagger Bohne; niece, Gwendolyn Bohne; nephews, Isaac Salazar Huff and Edward Bohne; and a wide circle of friends in the Easley-Pickens area.

A celebration of Johnny’s life will be planned in the next few weeks for all who knew and loved him.

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

 

DEBORAH ‘DEBBIE’ MORRISON

PICKENS — Deborah “Debbie” J. Morrison, 60, loving wife of 43 years to James Frank Morrison, passed away Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, at Greenville Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family.

Born on March 25, 1964, in Pickens County, Debbie was the daughter of the late Frank Styles and Ellen Jean Bowen Miller.

Mrs. Morrison attended Freedom Bikers Church when able to. She loved her family dearly, especially her children. She took great care of her family, especially her parents. She enjoyed reading books, going to the beach and swimming. She loved flowers and never met a stranger.

Survivors include her husband, James Frank Morrison of the home; children, Misti Stone (Jeff) of Liberty, Tanua Tate (Travis) of Travelers Rest, Jesse Morrison of Simpsonville, Brett Morrison of Pickens, Drake Lesley of Pickens and the many she cared for over the years; grandchildren, Dylan, Mason, Vitanni, Jakobi and Skooter; siblings, Eddie Styles, Louise Holcombe, Rita Medlin, Linda Carter, Kathy Kelly, Joyce Phillips and Jimmy Ramey; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews, having come from a large family.

Mrs. Morrison was predeceased by her parents, Frank Styles and Ellen Jean Bowen Miller.

Funeral services took place on Jan. 3 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home. Burial followed the service at Gap Hill Baptist Church cemetery in Six Mile.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Debbie’s honor may be made to In His Arms Ministries, 1908 Powdersville Road, Easley, SC 29642, (864) 360-3539.

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

 

HOVIE ‘JARRETT’ CASSELL

EASLEY — Hovie “Jarrett” Cassell, 82, of Easley, husband of Paula Cassell, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024.

Born in Easley, he was the son of the late Hovie Edward and Jacqulea Evatt Cassell.

Jarrett started his career humbly in the cotton mill, a testament to his tireless work ethic, before pursuing his passion for music and craftsmanship. He spent 37 dedicated years with Pecknel Music Company, where his talent as an instrument repairman and his keen ability to make and modify tools and instruments earned him admiration and respect. His work wasn’t just a job — it was a calling, and music was the rhythm of his life. Known for his sharp wit, magnetic personality and unwavering humor, Jarrett could make light of any situation, lifting the spirits of everyone around him. He was a lover of all things music, especially country and rock and roll.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two sons, Hovie “Jay” Cassell (Pam) and Shannon Cassell (Pattie); five grandchildren, Dylan, Owen, Jessica, Justin and Jacob; and four great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Jennifer Cassell Williams; and a sister, Joan Cassell Caddell.

The funeral services were held Jan. 6 at Robinson Memorial Gardens – Chapel of Reflection.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

 

SARAH F. GARRETT

PICKENS — Sarah Finley Garrett, 92, wife of the late V.R. “Bird” Garrett, passed away on Jan. 3, 2025.

Born on July 4, 1932, in Pickens County, Sarah was the daughter of the late D.E. and Norma S. Finley.

Sarah was a graduate of Pickens High School. She was formerly employed by Dwight Holder at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery and later at South Carolina National Bank. A devoted member of Pickens First Baptist Church, Sarah served as a choir member and cherished her time with her Sunday school class. She was a dedicated prayer warrior and had a deep relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Sarah was beloved by her family and friends. She had a lifelong love of music and enjoyed playing the piano and organ. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Surviving are her son, Scott Garrett (Gena) of Easley; three grandchildren, Brian Garrett, Taylor Hendricks (Bob) and Kelsey Maiberger (Andrew); one great-grandchild, Garrett Hendricks and one on the way, Everett Maiberger.

She was predeceased by her son, Steven Garrett, and four siblings, Pete Finley, Edna Cater, Ressie Reeves and Rosa Houston.

A service to celebrate Sarah’s life was held on Jan. 6 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. A private burial took place beforehand.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the music ministry of Pickens First Baptist Church, 406 E. Main Street, Pickens.

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

 

 

DUANE B. FORD

PICKENS — Duane B. Ford, 78, loving husband of 33 years to Joyce Coleman Ford, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, at his home.

Born May 5, 1946, in Rochester, N.Y., Duane was the son of the late George Edgar Ford and Elizabeth Frances Bentley Ford.

Mr. Ford was a member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Greenville. He was a United States Navy veteran who served two tours in Vietnam. While serving, Duane was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Stars and a Combat Action Ribbon. After his honorable discharge, he went on to earn his associate’s degree with Rochester Institute of Technology and worked for Eastman Kodak as a technical engineer. His passion for sailing and being on the water led him to achieve his 100-ton Captain’s License and took many folks on fishing, backwater and eco tours on his boat, Odyssey Boat Tours. Prior to his retirement, he was employed with Wilson Miller Associates in Naples, Fla., where he further learned GIS. His favorite project was locating and mapping of the protected Black Panthers of the Southern Florida Everglades.

In 2005, Duane and his wife moved to Pickens, where he finished his career with the county tax department as GIS engineer.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce Coleman Ford of the home; children, Michael Ford of Minneapolis, Minn., and Jennifer Hobbs of California; four precious grandchildren; sister, Marilyn Eck of Rochester, N.Y.; special niece, Tracy Bruce Schafer; and many other loving family members.

Mr. Ford was predeceased by his parents.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Feb. 1 in the sanctuary of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Greenville, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mr. Ford’s honor may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1002 S. Main St., Greenville, SC 29601.

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

 

JEFFERY LECROY

PICKENS — Jeffery LeCroy, 68, of Pickens, passed away on Jan. 3, 2025.

He was born on June 27, 1956, and raised in Walhalla by Douglas and Clarene LeCroy.

Jeff received his associate’s degree in textile management. He retired as a quality technician for Yokohama in April 2024. He was a member of East Pickens Baptist Church. Jeff loved the outdoors, hiking and fishing. He was a wonderful artist and enjoyed woodworking. It brought Jeff joy to help people. Most of all he loved people, especially his family.

Jeffery is survived by his loving wife, Kimberly LeCroy; his adopted daughter, Ivyona LeCroy of the home; his son, Michael LeCroy; his brother, Eric LeCroy (Linda); his sisters, Lisa Ridge (Roy), Kathy White (Greg), Sherri Owens (John) and Terri Tench (David); his stepchildren, Matthew Hardin (Patti) of Easley and Kaleb Hardin (Brittany) of Greer; and his grandchildren, Mikey and Matthew Corn.

He was predeceased by his parents, Clarene and Douglas LeCroy; and his daughter, April LeCroy.

A graveside service was held on Jan. 7 at Robinson Memorial Gardens.

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

 

PATRICIA ANN LEROY

EASLEY — Patricia Ann LeRoy, 87, of Easley, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

Born Dec. 4, 1937, in Blanche, Ala., she was a daughter of the late Samuel Lewis and Edna Roberts Pate.

Mrs. LeRoy lived a fulfilling life and will be dearly missed by her family and all who knew her. She was a very loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. She was of the Baptist faith and was a member of East Pickens Baptist Church. She enjoyed being outdoors and working in her many flower beds, as well as feeding and watching the birds. She was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, who she would watch and cheer on daily throughout each baseball season.

Mrs. LeRoy’s employment included working at the Singer Company, owning of T-Ann’s Wicker and Gifts, and serving as director of the Pickens Presbyterian Child Development Center before her retirement.

Mrs. LeRoy leaves behind her legacy, which includes five children, Norman V. Bergholm III (Sherry), Terri Owens (Mike), Karen Dodgens (Norman), Connie Morgan and Jody L. Bergholm (Amy); 15 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. LeRoy was preceded in death by her husband, Walter C. LeRoy; five siblings, David Pate, Margene Dodson, Lloyd Pate, Betty Metheny and Paul Pate; a son, Robert L. Bergholm; and a dear friend, Rex Byrd.

Visitation will take place from 1-2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with funeral services following at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

 

VAN ‘BUD’ DERRILL ELLENBURG

HICKORY — Van “Bud” Derrill Ellenburg, 83, passed away in Hickory, N.C. on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024 at The Greens of Hickory.

Bud, as he was commonly called, was born on July 10, 1941, in Travelers Rest, to Roy Anderson Ellenburg and Minnie Galloway Ellenburg. He was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church in Sunset.

As a young boy, he began his career working with his father in the sawmill and lumber business. As co-owner of E and E Lumber Company, Bud worked countless hours. He lived most of his life in Pickens County, prior to relocating to Newton, N.C., for a career opportunity there almost 20 years ago. He continued to work full-time until the age of 81, at which time he was involved in a debilitating accident on Dec. 30, 2022, and was forced to retire.

One particular accomplishment that was a source of great personal joy was Bud’s contributions to the building of a unique log structure for a Boy Scout troop. The lovely facility, named Ellenburg Hall, is located on the campus of Providence Presbyterian Church in the Powdersville area, and it continues to be used for many purposes by the church today.

Bud is survived by two loving and supportive sisters, Yvonne (Von) Ross of Ormond Beach, Fla., and Eloise Elrod (and her husband, T.J.) of Greenville; as well as three nieces, Jan McCrary of Greenville, Susan Rogers of Daytona Beach, Fla., and Sharon Millwood of Sunset.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Minnie Ellenburg.

A private memorial service was held in his memory at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Jan. 2.

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

 

JEFFREY THOMAS RABY

PICKENS — Jeffrey Thomas Raby, 47, loving husband to Jessica Owen, passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born Aug. 8, 1977, in Easley, Jeff was the son of Rita Jane Swafford and the late Buford Winston Raby. Jeff was an avid Clemson football fan. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, and camping. He loved spending quality time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Jessica Owen of the home; children, Ashlyn Ray (Dylan), Brittney Raby (Ben), Drew Virgil, Camden Raby and Chance Owen, all of Pickens; grandchildren, Maddox Ray and Emersyn Ray; brothers, Scott Raby (Donna) and Wes Raby (Patricia), both of Pickens; niece, Taylor Hendricks; and nephews, Jon Owens, Jacob Trotter, Jeffrey Raby and Jase Raby.

Mr. Raby was predeceased by his father, Buford Winston Raby.

The family will hold a celebration of life service at 1 p.m. Jan. 9 in the sanctuary of Landmark Baptist Church. Visitation will start an hour prior at noon.

Flowers will be accepted and may be delivered to Landmark Baptist Church, 116 Landmark Court, Easley, SC 29640.

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

 

DIANE SWORDS

LIBERTY — Diane Swords was called home to be with the Lord in the early morning hours of Jan. 5 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was a wonderful mother and grandmother who was always there when we needed her, offering support, wisdom and love in abundance. A friend to many, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness and strength.

Diane was a lifelong resident of Liberty. She was predeceased by her high school sweetheart and husband of 45 years, Roger Swords. She was also predeceased by her loving parents, Raymond and Edith Sanders Head. She was retired from Alice Manufacturing Company of Easley.

Diane was survived by two sons, Brian Swords of Liberty and Chris Swords and wife, Lisa, of Liberty; a daughter, Amanda Cruz of Spartanburg; and a sister, Judy Baker of Liberty. She was also survived by the “joys of her life,” her six grandchildren, Tyler Swords, Alexis Cruz, Andrew Swords, Logan Cruz, Isabella Cruz and Connor Swords, and two great-grandchildren, Ivy and Eliza.

Funeral services to celebrate Diane’s life will be conducted at 1 p.m. Jan. 8 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Liberty Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the mortuary.

The family is very grateful to Beverly Madden, Doris Phillips, Carolyn Kay, Christie Vasquez, DeeDee Rhodes, Mickey Webb and lifelong friend Margaret Hamilton, who provided loving companion care and friendship throughout Diane’s years of declining health.

The family would also like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the staff of Prisma Health Hospice of the Foothills, and especially to Diane’s nurse, Christine, for the loving and compassionate care given during her final months.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prisma Health, Hospice of the Foothills, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672 or Landmark Baptist Church 116 Landmark Court, Easley SC 29640.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit libertymortuary.com.

 

RUTH LEE SIMMONS

PICKENS — Ruth Lee Simmons, 90, of Pickens, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

Ruth was born in Pickens to the late Hubert and Freddie Mae Nalley. She was of the Wesleyan faith and loved to read her Bible. She enjoyed word search puzzles and loved spending time with her family.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Nabors (Donnie); sons, Jimmy Simmons (Patti), Randall Simmons and Timothy Simmons; and two brothers, Chupene Nalley and Wayne Nalley. She also leaves numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 45 years, Ernest Simmons; son, Robert Simmons; and siblings, Bobby Nalley, Francis Vaughan, Barbara Childs, Carol Alexander, Janice Gassaway and Gale Nalley.

A visitation for Ruth will be held from 11-11:45 a.m. Jan. 8 at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home in Pickens. A funeral service will begin at noon in the chapel with a committal service to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

 

WILLIAM ‘WILL’ CHAPMAN

PICKENS — William “Will” Chapman,  76, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Born Nov. 21, 1948, in Pickens County, Will was the son of the late Fred Chapman and Grace Dodgens Chapman. He worked in the timber industry most of his working career. Will was a very simple man who loved his siblings. He was the last of his 12 siblings.

Survivors include his life partner, Ann Kilgen of Pickens; daughter, Melinda Chapman of Central; granddaughter, Samantha George of Pickens; great-grandson, Prince; and special nieces, Rebecca and Melissa.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Chapman was predeceased by all 11 of his siblings.

Visitation will take place from 10:30-11 a.m. Jan. 10 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with funeral services following at 11 a.m. Burial will follow the service at Holly Springs Baptist Church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Will’s honor may be made to PruittHealth Hospice, 163 Love and Care Road, Six Mile, SC 29630.

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