DEBRA A. ‘DEBBIE’ CARR

PICKENS — Debra A. “Debbie” Carr, 64, loving wife of seven and a half years to Richard G. Carr, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born Aug. 18, 1959, in Pickens County, Debbie was the daughter of the late James F. Townes Sr. and Bertha Grant Townes. Debbie was a very sweet and outgoing person. She was a member of Bethany Church of God and taught Sunday school in her younger years. She loved collecting eagle portraits and statues and loved her Thomas Kincaid portraits.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Carr of Pickens; a brother, James F. Townes Jr.; and two sisters, Joyce T. McConnell (Rev. Carl McConnell) and Virgina Dianne Townes.

Mrs. Carr was predeceased by her parents, James F. Townes Sr. and Bertha Grant Townes.

A graveside service was held at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens on Feb. 9.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

GRADY FLOYD ABERCROMBIE JR.

SUNSET — Grady Floyd Abercrombie Jr., 76, passed away on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.

Born Oct. 30, 1947, in Oconee County, Grady was the son of the late Grady Floyd Abercrombie Sr. and Evelyn Head Abercrombie. Mr. Abercrombie liked hiking, music and Western movies. He enjoyed his country and oldies music. Grady worked as an accountant for more than 20 years at Grant Ford in Pickens until they closed. His family brought him great happiness, especially his 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Survivors include a daughter, Frances “Frankie” A. Broom (Chris) of Six Mile; a son, John G. Abercrombie (Jessica) of Sunset; grandchildren, Michael Abercrombie (Amelia), Jacob Broom (Chelsea), Ashleigh McDaniel (Michael), Jarod Broom (Sofia), John Broom (Shanda), Jordan Broom, Thomas Broom, Matthew Abercrombie, Maddox Abercrombie, Jace Broom, James Broom and Jaxon Broom; great-grandchildren, Mia, Everly, Emmett, McKenna and Sikes; siblings, Wanda Hyatt (Bud) and Danny Abercrombie (Joyce); and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Abercrombie was predeceased by a brother, Roger Abercrombie.

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

ROGER CLINTON EADES

BREVARD, N.C. — Roger Clinton Eades, 62, loving husband of 35 years to Lynn O. Eades, passed away on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, at Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, N.C., surrounded by his family.

Born July 26, 1961, in Greenville County, Roger was the son of the late J.W. Eades and Ruth Grant Eades. Mr. Eades worked in retail management for most of his life. He worked for Dollar Tree for 22 years and enjoyed meeting people as he traveled across the country. Roger enjoyed wood crafting in his workshop and had a gift for repurposing things. He loved his family dearly and his son, Landon, was his pride and joy.

Survivors include his wife, Lynn O. Eades of Brevard, N.C.; son, Landon Eades of Brevard, N.C.; a brother, Rick Eades; a sister, Glenda Sealey; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Eades was predeceased by three brothers, Ronnie Eades, Gene Eades and Gary Eades; and a sister, Patricia Eades.

The family will be announcing services at a later date.

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

JOHN ELLIOTT CLARK

EASLEY — Mr. John Elliott Clark, 69, of Easley, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024 at Easley Baptist Hospital.

Born in Greenville County, he was the son of the late William B. and G. Fay Clark.

John was a retired state trooper and he enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time. He was also a very avid fan of the Clemson Tigers, Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Falcons.

John is survived by his wife, Martha Jean Clark; his son, Jason Clark (Pauline) of Easley; his son, Jeff Clark (Jessie) of Pickens; his daughter, Jennifer Clark of Easley; his brother, Michael Clark of Ohio; and his sister, Linda Clark of Easley; a bonus daughter, Angie Lynn Cook of Lancaster; and six grandchildren, Matthew Clark, Amber Clark, Will Watson, Jeremiah Watson, Brady Watson and Jordan Clark.

A celebration of life for John will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the NRA at donate.nra.org/donate or the S.C. Trooper Association, 4961 Broad River, Columbia, SC 296212, sctroopers.org/sctaf/.

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

DONALD JAMES ‘DONNIE’ SIMMONS

PICKENS — Donald James “Donnie” Simmons, 80, loving husband of 60 years to Doris Gillespie Simmons, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, at his home.

A native of Pickens County, Donnie was born July 10, 1943, the son of the late Clarence Grady Simmons Sr. and Grace Chappell Simmons. Mr. Simmons was an avid hunter who loved hunting of all kinds. He enjoyed doing mechanic work and could fix most any car. Donnie loved entertaining visitors and watching Westerns. He liked his coconut cake that his daughter made. Donnie was a sweet man who loved his wife and family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren truly made him happy.

Survivors include his wife, Doris G. Simmons of the home; a daughter, Sandra Lee Hayes (Chris) of Sunset; a son, Harold Allen Simmons (Pam) of Pickens; grandchildren, Coty Allen Black (Hayley), Cory Allen Simmons (Christi), Heather Melissa Durham (Brandon) and Christan Lee Hayes; 10 loving and precious great-grandchildren; and siblings, Clarence Grady Simmons, Jr. (Violet), Marion Van Simmons (Terry) and Martha Ann Coleman (Phil).

In addition to his parents, Mr. Simmons was predeceased by a son, Daryl James Simmons, and a brother, Gary Wayne Simmons.

A graveside service was held at Griffin Baptist Church cemetery in Pickens on Feb 9.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

CLAUDE B. ‘BERT’ JONES

EASLEY — Claude B. “Bert” Jones, 95, loving husband to the late Pearl Jones, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, at St. Francis Downtown Hospital.

Born Aug. 3, 1928, in Oconee County, Bert was the son of the late Burymon Chester Jones and Grace Clark Jones. Mr. Jones loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren. Bert was a World War II veteran, a devoted Navy man and a 32-degree Mason. He worked most of his life in textiles. He was a very generous man and always assisted others. Mr. Jones loved his dog, Roxie. He enjoyed his Jack Daniels and gardening and grew the hottest peppers known to man.

Survivors include his children, Rick Morris (Marsha) of Taylors and Joy Linville and Russell Morris, both of Easley; grandchildren, Mike Linville (Lynnette), Bill Linville (Chris), Courtney Dean (Jeff) and Kirk Morris (Jennifer); great-grandchildren, Nick, Kaylin, Michaela, Ruthie, Bekah and Annslee; one loving and precious great-great-grandchild, Evander; and two brothers, Clyde Smith and Harold Smith (Linda).

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Jones was predeceased by nine brothers and sisters.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 13 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens. Burial followed the service at Graceland West Cemetery in Greenville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bert’s honor may be made to McCall Hospice House of Greenville, by mailing 1836 West Georgia Road, Simpsonville, SC 29680 or by calling (864) 688-1700.

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

DOLORES BLODGETT

EASLEY — Dolores Blodgett, 94, of Easley and Rock Hill, passed away on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024.

Dolores was born in Miami, Fla. She last worked as a secretary at Community Baptist Church in Sebastian, Fla., for 14 years. Always the life of the party, she enjoyed life and especially her family.

Dolores is survived by her sons, Dean Blodgett (Lynn) and Jeffrey Blodgett (Wanda); and her daughter, Dawn Cole. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Dolores was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Jackson (Jack) Blodgett; and her brothers, William, Warren and Richard Filer.

A graveside service for Dolores will be held at 1 p.m. Feb. 17 at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC 29609.

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

ROBERT CLIFTON MCLEOD

PICKENS — Robert Clifton McLeod Jr., 75 years old, known affectionately as “Cliff,” joined his heavenly.

Father on Jan. 30, 2024. He was born on Nov. 26, 1948, in Columbia, to his parents, the late Robert Clifton McLeod, Sr. and Ramona Hunneycutt.

Cliff led a fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service. After graduating from Pickens High School, he served our country in the U.S. Navy. His service spanned over 15 years as an engineman, Petty Officer 1st Class, a Vietnam War veteran, and a tugboat mechanic.

While Cliff’s Naval career was significant to him, it was not the only aspect that defined his life.

He had an unwavering enthusiasm for various hobbies and interests. He was a registered Ham radio operator and was highly respected as such. Cliff also served with the Pickens County Emergency Operations Center. .

He has spent his entire life on the trails in the Carolinas, and prided himself on his knowledge of the parks, wildlife, lakes and people in our surrounding areas. Cliff was most comfortable outdoors and sitting by a fire. If you were privileged enough to spend time with Cliff throughout his life, you would know that he had an appreciation for many genres of music. He found enjoyment in playing his banjo and guitar.

While Cliff will be deeply missed by all who knew him, his memory will be carried on by his surviving family and friends. His children, Robert C. McLeod III (Stacey) of Pumpkintown and Christopher S. McLeod (Karrie) of Simpsonville will forever hold their father close in their hearts.

In addition, Cliff leaves behind two granddaughters, Alissa McLeod and Riley McLeod. Also surviving is his sister, Byrl Warren of Pennsylvania

In addition to his parents, Cliff was predeceased by a brother, Mike McLeod of Goose Creek, and his wife of 31 years, Tina M. McLeod of Pumpkintown.

LINDA HOWARD

EASLEY — Linda Kaye Strawhorn Howard, 72, beloved wife, mother and sister, passed away on Feb. 10, 2024.

She was born on July 20, 1951, in Greenwood, to the late Samuel and Wanda Johnson Strawhorn.

In her younger years, she was an avid golfer, finding joy playing alongside her husband, Reggie, in their free time. During her teenage years, she developed a love for trail riding, an activity she joyfully shared with her family.

With a strong faith in God, Linda was an active member of Jones Avenue Baptist Church, where she found solace and fellowship. Her unwavering commitment to her faith and her involvement in the church community were a testament to her kind and compassionate nature.

Professionally, Linda worked as a payables clerk in the manufacturing industry at GNC Distribution. Her dedication and attention to detail made her an invaluable asset to the company. Linda took great pride in her work, always ensuring that every task was completed with precision and efficiency.

Linda’s passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved her dearly. She is survived by her devoted husband, Reggie Howard; her loving son, Scott Howard (Sharon); her brother, Mickey Strawhorn; and her sister, Sandra McAlister. Also left to cherish her memory are her grandchildren, Jerrica Sanders and Jordan Snipes, along with her great grandchildren; Pressley Sanders, Parker Sanders, Miller Snipes, Lennon Sanders and Lana Jean Snipes.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Carrie Diane Howard.

To honor her memory and celebrate her remarkable life, funeral services will be held at noon Feb. 14 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Following the funeral service, Linda will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park alongside her infant daughter.

Although Linda Kaye Howard has departed from this earthly realm, her spirit will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

CHARLES ‘SMOKEY’ SMITH

EASLEY — Mr. Charles “Smokey” Boyce Smith, 90, husband of Thelma Sanders Smith and the late Martha Martin Smith, went to be with his Lord and Savior Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024.

Born in Pickens County, he was the son of the late Lloyd Smith and the late Ruth Spearman Smith. He was a graduate of Easley High School, a retired broadcaster from WELP Radio with 36 years of service, and later retired from Robinson Funeral Home. Smokey was a faithful member of Rock Springs Baptist Church, where he belonged to the Inspiration Sunday School Class.

Smokey was well known in the community from his Easley roots, Glenwood Mill roots and his radio broadcasting career.

His knowledge of Easley history and sports led to many stories and conversations between him and whoever he encountered. He never met a stranger and loved everyone, especially his family.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 51 years, are his son, David Smith (Ann), of Marietta, Ga.; his daughter, Beth Smith (Randy) of Grand Rapids, Mich.; his stepsons, Wayne Gaskill (Marsha) of Jackson, Tenn., and Vernon Gaskill of Easley; a sister, Myra Brookey of Powdersville; a half-brother, Michael Smith (Connie) of Easley; a son-in-law, Rev. Dan Batson of Easley; a sister-in-law, Evelyn Vehorn of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. In addition to his first wife and parents, Smokey was predeceased by a stepdaughter, Donna Batson; and a sister, Paula Turner.

Funeral services were held Feb. 13 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with Rev. Dan Batson officiating. Burial followed in the Mt. Zion Cemetery in Central.

Memorials may be made in memory of Smokey to Rock Springs Baptist Church, 201 Rock Springs Road, Easley; or to the Alzheimer’s Association of Greenville by visiting alz.org/sc.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Smokey’s caretaker Sissy Stone, hospice nurse, Becky Davis, RN, BSN, and the staff of Interim Healthcare for the love and care they have provided for him.

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

 

BETTY MARTIN

EASLEY — Betty Martin, 67, of Easley, died on Feb. 11, 2024.

She was born on May 10, 1956 to Ed Nations and Alma Nations. Betty worked as a custodian for Pickens High School, where she retired after 30 years.

Betty enjoyed taking care of her family, watching movies with her children, shopping and cooking.

Betty is survived by daughters Kimberly Martin and Jennifer Martin, both of Six Mile; a son, Dennis Martin, of Asheville, N.C.; three grandchildren, Gabriela Colecia, McKenzie Martin and Bryson Martin; and brothers, Samuel Nations and Jim Nations.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Dennis Martin; and her brothers, Tony Nations and Jerry Nations.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Feb. 16 at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. Feb. 15 at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, Easley.

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

 

SARA ‘JO’ PATTERSON RAUE

EASLEY — Sara “Jo” Patterson Raue, 85, wife of the late Richard “Dick” Dale Raue, went to be with her Lord and Savior Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024.

Born on April 9, 1938, in Pickens, she was a daughter of the late Boaz and Jeanette Garrett Patterson.

Sara enjoyed spending time traveling with her late husband Dick. She also enjoyed artwork, spending her time drawing and painting.

She enjoyed the company of her beloved dogs, Tucker a nd Casey, but above all else, Sara found true happiness in spending time with her family.

Sara leaves behind an adoring daughter, Tracy Harbin; her loving grandchildren, Jesse Harbin (Victoria), Joshua Harbin, Jennifer Cromer (Charles) and Lindsey Jones (John); eight great-grandchildren; and her brother, Luke Patterson (Beth).

In addition to her husband and her parents, Sara was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Genia Jones.

A memorial service in honor of Sara will be held at a later date.

Please visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory – Downtown, Easley.

 

DONNA HARRIS

LIBERTY — Donna Ellen Smith Harris, 82, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Feb. 11, 2024, at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born on Nov. 6, 1941, in Easley, she was a daughter of the late Mack and Bernice Crowe Smith.

Donna led a fulfilling life, marked by love, compassion, and a deep devotion to her family. She was a woman of many talents and passions, but it was her love for quilting that truly defined her creative spirit.

With every stitch, she brought warmth and beauty into the lives of those who were fortunate enough to receive her handmade quilts.

As a dedicated wife of John Harris, they shared a lifetime of cherished memories together. Their love and commitment to one another were an inspiration to all who knew them. Surviving in addition to her husband are four children; Shannon Bryant Wheeler (Kirk), Allison Bryant Whitmire (Robbie), Michelle Harris Cuttill (Brad) and Richard Harris (Lissa), who were the pride and joy of her life. She was a nurturing and supportive mother who never missed an opportunity to show her unwavering love.  Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and a brother, David Smith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Tony Smith; three grandsons, Creed, Canaan and Constantine.

Donna’s compassionate nature extended beyond her immediate family. As a supervisor in the textile industry, where she worked for Greenwood Mills, she touched the lives of many through her kindness and guidance. Her colleagues remember her as a reliable and dedicated individual, always willing to lend a helping hand.

Outside of work, Donna cherished the time spent with her family, creating memories and building traditions. Family game day was a monthly occurrence that brought laughter and joy to all. These shared moments will forever be held in the hearts of her loved ones.

Donna will be deeply missed by her husband, children, grandchildren and brother. Her warm smile, gentle nature, and loving presence will remain etched in our memories forever.

To celebrate and honor her life a funeral service will be held 3 p.m., Feb. 15, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel.  She will be laid to rest beside her mother at Abbott Cemetery in Liberty.  The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:30 until 2:30 p.m. at the mortuary.

As we gather to mourn the loss of Donna, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the impact she made on all those who were fortunate to know her. May she find eternal peace in the arms of her loved ones who have gone before her.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

BETTY MARTIN

EASLEY— Betty Martin, 67, of Easley, died on Feb. 11, 2024.

She was born on May 10, 1956 to Ed Nations and Alma Nations. Betty worked as a custodian for Pickens High School where she retired after 30 years.

Betty enjoyed taking care of her family, watching movies with her children, shopping, and cooking.

Betty is survived by daughters; Kimberly Martin and Jennifer Martin, both of Six Mile; a son, Dennis Martin, of Asheville; three grandchildren, Gabriela Colecia, McKenzie Martin and Bryson Martin; and brothers, Samuel Nations and Jim Nations. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Dennis Martin; and her brothers, Tony Nations and Jerry Nations.
A graveside service will be held on Feb. 16, at 10 a.m. at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Feb. 15, from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, Easley.

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