WILLIAM ROBERT  DUNCAN JR.

PICKENS — Mr. William Robert Duncan Jr., affectionately known to us as Jr. was born under the gentle skies of Pickens, on Sept. 11, 1929.

Jr was a steadfast pillar of our community, a man whose life was as rich and deep as the soil of our beloved land.

On March 13, 2025, Jr was called to his eternal rest in the very place he first drew breath, leaving this world as he lived, surrounded by the familiar comforts of home and the love of his kin.

Jr was the cherished son of the late William Ernest Tom Duncan and Mittie Kay Duncan, and he walked in the footsteps of righteousness they laid before him. His life journey was one of simple joys and profound commitments – a journey that began as a boy in the halls of Six Mile High School and led him to serve his nation with honor as a PFC of the 187 Field Artillery Observation Battalion. With the same hands that he lifted in prayer, Jr mastered the craft of Jeep mechanics in the U.S. Army, a skill he later carried into his diligent maintenance work for Hughes Real Estate.

In the sacred bond of matrimony, Jr was united with his beloved Agnes Roosevelt Duncan, who preceded him in death, just as did his dear daughter, Rebecca Kay Duncan. His legacy of love and guidance lives on through his daughters, Linda Gail Duncan and Susan Margaret Reece, and his heart swelled with pride for each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought joy to his days. The echoes of his laughter and wisdom will resonate through the lives of Robert Doyle Dunson, Brandy Leshea Barnette, Heather LeAnn Crystelle Worthy, Spencer Craig Mealor, Brittany Marina Mealor, Kailey Marina King, Wrenley Moriah Smith, Kaydence Leona Marie Woods, McKinley Elizabeth Lynn Worthy and all the young ones who had the blessing to call him ‘Grandpa.’

Jr’s faith was the compass by which he navigated life’s trials and triumphs. He was a man of the Good Book, spendingcountless hours in worship, reading the Bible, and leading souls to Christ. His heart knew the path to the Lord, and he walked it with unwavering conviction, his voice a testament to the grace of God in every sermon he shared, every prayer he whispered.

However, Jr’s love was not confined to the walls of the church. He found God’s handiwork in the great outdoors, in the quiet rustle of the woods where he hunted, the serene ripples of the waters where he fished and in the whittling of wood into creations of beauty and purpose. His hands were rarely still, for they found their joy in labor and in the tender embrace of his family.

As we bid farewell to Jr, we remember a man who was the very heart of his family, a beloved uncle to Kathy Cooper and a cherished elder to Cameron and Christopher Gravley. Each life he touched was made richer by his presence, each story he told was imbued with the warmth of his spirit.

Let us not mourn, but instead celebrate Jr’s reunion with his heavenly family, and with the Lord he so adored. For in his passing, he leaves behind not just memories, but a legacy of faith, love and the quiet strength that defined his earthly journey.

So, as we commit our dear Jr to the Lord’s keeping, let us carry forward the torch of his love, his devotion to family, and his unwavering faith. May we walk in the light of his example, and may the peace that surpassed all understanding, which so filled Jr’s heart, be with us all until we meet him again in the glory of our Father’s house. Amen.

Funeral service for William were held on March 18, at Mile Creek Baptist Church. Committal service followed in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in William’s memory may be made to Mile Creek Baptist Church.

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

 

EDDIE CLIFTON HENRY

EASLEY — Eddie Clifton Henry, 82, loving husband of 44 years to Doris M. Henry, passed away on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.

Born Feb. 21, 1943, in Highlands, N.C., Eddie was the son of the late Edd Henry and Alma Barnes Henry. Mr. Henry was a born-again Christian, current member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Easley, and former member of Shortoff Baptist Church in Highlands and a Mason. He loved bluegrass music.

He was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping, hunting, fishing and loved his travels out West. Eddie was proud to have worked as the chief of security at Highlands Country Club.

Survivors include his wife, Doris M. Henry; children, Vicki Durham (Mike), Kevin Henry (Susan), Sherri Wise (Rodney), Doug McDonald, Anne Pittman (Brad), Susan Youngblood (Ray) and Timothy McDonald; sister, Helen Talley (Zane); his nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Mr. Henry was predeceased by his parents, Edd Henry and Alma Barnes Henry; a son, Christopher “Chris” Henry;  and siblings, Malcolm “Mick” Henry, Betty Henry Hunter Butts, Clara “Jane” Henry Edens and Clem Lee Henry.

The family held a memorial service on March 18, at Mount Carmel Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Eddie’s honor may be made to Rainey Hospice House, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Henry family.

 

LULA AZILEE ANTHONY

GREENVILLE — Lula Azilee Anthony, 94, of Greenville, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Lula was born in Pickens to the late Kay and Elsie Crumpton on Sept. 4, 1930. She was a faithful member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. She enjoyed attending Sunday School and reading her Bible. During her spare time she loved completing word and sudoku puzzles. She often enjoyed strolling through the Pickens Jockey Lot.

Lula is survived by her sister, Joann Reid; three sons, Keith Anthony (Lane), Steve Anthony (Lisa) and Joey Anthony (Pablo); grandchildren, Chad Anthony (Shannon), Chris Anthony (Liz), Keith Allan Anthony (Amanda), Bennett Anthony, Corey Anthony (Ashley) and Anna Anthony; great-grandchildren, Ivy Anthony, Grayson Anthony, Jacob Anthony (Lexi), Alex Anthony (Emily), Angel Tinsley (Corey) and one on the way; and great-great-grandson, Aiden Tinsley. She also leaves numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wilson H. “Joe” Anthony and eight siblings.

A graveside service will be held on March 21, at 1 p.m. at Griffin Baptist Church, 1629 Pumpkintown Hwy, Pickens.

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

 

BILLY DALE STONE

PICKENS — Billy Dale Stone, 68, of Pickens, arrived in heaven on March 11, 2025.

Devoted to God and his family, Dale was truly the salt of the earth. A country boy at heart, Dale enjoyed working on his farm and spending time with his animals. He thoroughly enjoyed retirement after 45 years of service at Ryobi/Fast Bolt Carolina. He also loved working part time during retirement at The Cliffs at Keowee Springs. His memory and legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 45 years, Diana Youngblood Stone; daughter, Tori DeVall (Kevin); son, Joshua Stone (Lane) and beloved daughter-in-law, Lori Gossett; grandchildren, Leann DeVall, Sarah-Grace DeVall, Leo DeVall, Jose DeVall, Selena DeVall, Billy Stone, Reilly Gossett, Audrey Gossett, Avery Gossett, Brody Gossett,  Fisher Stone, Tucker Stone, Savannah Stumbo (Justin) and Hayden Murray; great-grandchild, Theo and soon to be arriving, RonnieBeth and cherished miniature schnauzer, Mattie.

Dale was predeceased in death by his father, Billy Garvin Stone; mother, Rosalee Gravely Stone and son, Jason Corey Stone.

A memorial service to celebrate Dale’s “homecoming” was held on March 14, at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Stone family.

 

JOYCE MASTERS HUNTER

PICKENS — Joyce Masters Hunter, 83, of Pickens, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

Joyce was born and raised in Pickens to the late Clifford and Effie Masters. She was a devoted member of Mountain View Baptist Church and was very active within her church.

She served as the secretary for Pickens Jr. High and later worked as a typesetter for Martin Printing Company. She enjoyed shopping, but above all, she loved spending time with her family.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Patti Barger (Brian) of Pickens; son, Brentlee Hunter (Belinda) of Greenville, Tenn.; three grandsons, Brian Barger Jr. (Taylor), Isaac Barger and Jacob Barger, all of Pickens. She is also survived by her sisters, Blanche Markley, Shirley Stone, Elaine Henderson and Susan Childress.

She is preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband, Pat Hunter; brother, Jimmy Masters; and sister, Linda Few.

A funeral service for Joyce was held on March 16 at Mountain View Baptist Church in the chapel, with a committal service following in the church cemetery.

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

 

RICHARD WILLIAM GOOLSBY

MAULDIN — Richard William Goolsby, 84, of Mauldin, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025.

Richard served four years in the Navy.  The majority of his adult life was spent driving truck.  Approximately five years ago, he accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.

Richard is survived by his sisters, Janet Manson (Wayne) and Joan Sloan (Marvin); brother, John Goolsby (Robbie); nephew, Mark Manson (Julia); two nieces, Susan Whitledge (Forrest) and Lynn Manson Collins (Sidney F. Noblitt II); seven great nieces and nephews; and four great-great nieces and nephews.

Richard is preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Kramer Goolsby and father, Richard Bailey Goolsby.

A committal service for Richard will be held on March 21, at 1 p.m. at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery, 140 Inway Drive, Anderson.

In honor of Mr. Goolsby, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the family.

 

TERRY LEE WHITESIDES

PICKENS — Terry Lee Whitesides, 74, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Terry was born in Baytown, Texas on Dec. 23, 1952, to the late Troy and Margarette Whitesides.

He was a faithful member of 5point Church in Easley, and a volunteer fireman at the Pumpkintown fire department. He retired after 24 years of service at Exxon Mobile and was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army and United States Air Force. Terry loved to help people and enjoyed welding and working with his hands to create and fix items for friends and families. He always had a farmer’s tan from spending time outside.

Terry was a loving husband for 43 years and a supportive dad for 21. He leaves behind his wife, Barbara Whitesides; daughter, Leana Whitesides; as well as his brother, Troy Whitesides and sister, Charlotte Wood. He will surely be missed by the community, his family, and friends.

A funeral service was conducted on Mar. 13, at the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home.

“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going” John 14: 2-4.

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

 

MIKE NALLEY

EASLEY — Mr. Lloyd “Mike” Michael Nalley, 74, of Easley, husband of 43 years to the love of his life, Karen Searcy Nalley, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025.

Born in Pickens County, a son of the late Lloyd Thomas Nalley and the late Ruth Smith Nalley, Mike was a commercial contractor and builder for over 58 years of which 27 years was with Nalley Construction/Easley Lumber Company. 31 years of his career he owned and operated Mike Nalley Construction before retiring in 2013.

An avid fisherman, Mike traveled thousands of miles across the eastern and mid-western states participating in pleasure and tournament fishing for striped bass, often  placing fourth or better. He also had a passion for deer hunting.

Before and after retirement, Mike loved to build anything and everything. If it could be crafted out of wood, he was the man for the job. Friends would stop by often just to see what he was building that day.

Mike and Karen purchased the original Nalley home place built in 1918, in the summer of 1993. Many Christmas’ they would decorate their home and yard with thousands of white lights. On clear nights you were able to see the lights from Caesars Head, they were told. One year, Karen had so many lights up that she blew a power transformer. Duke Power said that was a first that they were aware of from a residence.

Mike’s greatest  joy in life was his children and grandchildren.
Surviving, in addition to his wife Karen, are his three daughters, Karen Nalley Frady, Tiffany Nalley Register and Kasi Nalley Jenkins (Trey), all of Easley; five grandchildren, Ashley Frady Green (Alex) of U.S. Army, Seaside, Calif., Justin Major of Taylors, Aiden and Jayden Nalley-Reynolds and Trent Jenkins, all of Easley; and one great-grandchild, Chance Major of Easley; four sisters of Easley; a brother-in-law, Phil Searcy (Kelley) of Easley; a sister-in-law, Kathy Tripp of  Easley; special nephews, Dusty Searcy (Jennifer) of Six Mile and Freddy Lewis of Pickens; along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mike was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Randel “Pokie” Searcy and Barbara W. Searcy; brothers-in-law, Jack H. Tripp and Fred Lewis; and a goddaughter, Angel Ladonna Gantt.

The family hosted a Celebration of Life at the home on Mar. 14, 313 East Church Road, Easley, SC 29642.

All are invited to come and share memories, stories and adventures that you have of Mike.
Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory-Downtown, Easley.

 

MARY CANZANELLA KELLY

CENTRAL — Mary Canzanella Kelly, 82, loving wife to the late Leland T. Kelly, passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary Kelly, born on Jan. 6, 1943, in Brooklyn, N.Y., was the beloved daughter of the late Anthony Canzanella and Margaret Cappiello Canzanella. A devoted member of Saint Andrews Catholic Church in Clemson, she lived her faith through service and community. Mary earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Furman University, and her academic journey paved the way for her remarkable career. She proudly became one of the first women to serve as an officer with the New York Police Department, breaking barriers and setting a path for future generations.

Mary’s professional career continued to flourish as she took on the role of assistant manager of regional sales at Bellsouth, where she made significant contributions. Beyond her work in business, she demonstrated a deep commitment to education, founding a reading program at Six Mile Elementary, which earned her the prestigious South Carolina Board of Educators Volunteer Award.

Above all, Mary was devoted to her family. She cherished every moment spent with them, especially with her grandchildren and beloved dogs, who brought her immense joy. Her legacy of love, service and dedication to those around her will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Survivors include her daughter, Theresa Dunkley (Jeff) of Central; grandchildren, Kelsey Dunkley, Thomas Dunkley and Kaitlyn Dunkley, all of Central and Christopher Looper of Pickens; and nephew, Russell Kelly.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Kelly was predeceased by a son, Leland Ralph Anthony Kelly.

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

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Kelly family.

 

THELMA L. TAYLOR

EASLEY —Thelma L. Taylor, 86, loving wife to the late James Stanley Taylor, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Fleetwood Post Acute in Easley.

Born on Nov. 28, 1938, in Greenville, Thelma was the daughter of the late John Chestley Henderson and Cora Smith Henderson. Mrs. Taylor last attended Fountain of Life Pentecostal Church. She was a hard worker at anything she did. She was known for being a perfectionist; everything had to be perfect, including her hair and the crease in her pants. She enjoyed slow dancing and was a true Elvis fan. She loved camping and her time at the beach.

Survivors include children, Rhonda Ingram (Jesse) of Piedmont, Randy Derrick Taylor (Terri) of Williamston, James Jeffrey Taylor (Melisa) of Pickens and Rita T. Smith (Richard) of Williamston; grandchildren, Kyra Rivera (Ramon), Brandon Taylor (Victoria), Devin Lane Taylor (Deanna), Hannah Carlton (C.J.), Dakota Smith (Chloe), Justin Blair Ingram (Tillman), Austin Brady Bannister, Noah Smith (Abigail) and Brittany Amber White; great-grandchildren, Jonas, Skylin, Presley, Jaelan, Juliana, Chipper, Penelope, Birdie and Kason; and siblings, Edward Henderson (Sharon) of Conestee and Betty Armstrong (Jimmy) of Ware Place.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Taylor was predeceased by six sisters, Jessie Brown, Vera Davis, Mildred Boyce, Sarah Thompson, Cara Ragsdale and Ruby Allen; and three brothers, Adger Lee Henderson, Harold Henderson and John “Bub” Henderson.

A graveside service will be held on March 19, at 3 p.m. at Pine Lawn Cemetery, 1 Woodcock Rd, Pelzer, SC 29669.

Memorial donations in Thelma’s honor may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association by mailing 123 W Antrim Dr, Greenville, SC 29607, or by visiting their website at alz.org.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Taylor family.

 

JEFFREY LYNN ANDERS, SR.

PICKENS — Jeffrey Lynn Anders Sr., 68, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at his residence.

Born on Dec. 29, 1956, in Ann Arbor, Mich., Jeffrey was the son of the late Lynn Long Anders and Anna Eileen Schneider Anders. A passionate historian and genealogist, he dedicated much of his time to researching his family’s rich history and exploring the intricate details of Civil War battles. Jeffrey also found solace in nature, with a deep love for fishing, particularly for trout, which he often enjoyed in quiet, reflective moments.

Survivors include his son, Jeffrey L. Anders II (Mary) of Pickens; grandchildren, Jeffrey, Dylan, Sharon, Johnathan, Elijah, Corey and Brycen; great-grandchildren, Kennedie, Waylon, Brook Leigh and Bailey; and siblings, Janet Bort of Easley, Sandy McJunkin of Pickens and Merry Gill (Joe) of Pickens.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Anders was predeceased by his wife, Sheila Diane Pelfrey and a daughter, Athena Marie O’Shields.

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

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Anders family.

 

BRYAN ‘AUSTIN’ KELLNER

EASLEY — Bryan “Austin” Kellner, 20, of Easley, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Born in Easley, Austin attended Liberty High School. Fearless and adventurous from a young age, Austin loved anything with cars and motorcycles. He was described as “fast and loud” and had a special fondness for his fiancée, family and road trips. Austin was spunky, outgoing, lighthearted and full of fun. His goofy, infectious personality could brighten any room, and to know him was to love him. Whether he was making people laugh, going on spontaneous adventures or simply being his vibrant self, Austin left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was known for his selfless nature, always willing to give the shirt off his back—even his shoes—to those in need. He had a deep love for animals, particularly reptiles and personally cared for two dogs and three cats.

He is survived by his fiancée, Bryli Riddle; his father, Charles “Chuck” Kellner (Jessica Tims); his mother, Angela Silvers (Dwayne); his grandparents, Michael Johnson, Dena Crump and Deborah and John Rasmussen; his brothers, Cain Kellner (Kayden) and Tyler Kellner (Annabelle); and his bonus siblings, Jacob, Allison, Cierra, Kaleigh and Tyler D. Silvers and Nevaeh Henderson.

Austin is preceded in death by his bonus brother, Tanner Silvers.

The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on March 20. A funeral service will take place on March 21 at 1 p.m. in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road. A graveside will follow in Robinson Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Austin’s honor to Liberty Serpentarium at 51 S. Commerce Street, Liberty.

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