Courier Obituaries 4-5-17
Esther Lenora Holliday
Six Mile — Esther L. Holliday, 88, went to be with the Lord Monday March 27, 2017, in Pickens.
Mrs. Holliday is the wife of the late James Thomas Holliday and the daughter of the late Thomas Henry Falls and Susan Ann Falls.
Mrs. Holliday worked as a homemaker and was a member of the Ridgeland Drive Baptist Church.
Mrs. Holliday is survived by two sons; James Holliday (Revonda) of Greer and Don
Holliday (June) also of Greer. In addition to her parents and husband she is predeceased by a daughter Linda Gale Holliday, seven brothers and nine sisters. She also leaves in her memory three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Services were held March 30 in the Dillard Funeral Home chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
Memorials may be sent to Miracle Hill Ministries 490 S. Pleasantburg Drive Greenville, SC 29602.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Holliday family.
Clyde Lester Anderson
Pickens — Clyde Lester Anderson “Papa” went on to be with his Lord peacefully on Wednesday, March 22, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.
He was a son of the late Joseph Ruglass Anderson and Nancy Cornelia “Nealy” Reece Anderson. He was born in Pickens on May 8, 1924. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, he was predeceased by his devoted wife of 67 years, Frances Elizabeth Gilstrap Anderson. He is survived by a son, Steve Anderson (Darlene) of Pickens; daughter, Mary Howell (Bill) of Greenville; granddaughters, Gretchen Reeves (Jamie), April Anderson, Heather Shelton (Wesley), Allison Howell, Melanie Wells (Eric); great-grandchildren Kendyl Black (Caleb), Jay and Ben Reeves, Logan and Kinsley Shelton, Reece Elizabeth Wells; great-great granddaughter Kesley Black; brother, Oscar Anderson; and sister, Essie Looper. He was predeceased by six brothers and a sister.
Papa took great pride in his family and loved spending time with them. He was known for his love of God and country and was a devoted member of Midway Baptist Church. A WWII Purple Heart recipient, he served in the Army in the Pacific Theater.
Services were held March 26 at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home, with a military burial in Hillcrest Memorial Park following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Midway Baptist Church Missions Ministry, PO Box 1376, Pickens, SC 29671.
Hazel H. Seaborn
Easley — Mrs. Hazel Heath Seaborn, 72, wife of Buddy Jack “B.J.” Seaborn passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2017, at her home.
Born in Greenville County, a daughter of the late Walter and Gertrude Crain Heath, Mrs. Seaborn retired from Easley Baptist Hospital with 31 years of service. She was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church where she was a member of the Seeker’s Sunday School Class.
Surviving, in addition to her husband of 53 years, are three daughters, Jackie S. Earle (Mark) of Hickory Tavern, Missy S. Fitch (Steve), and Alison S. Conner (Todd), all of Easley; one sister, Mary Sue Driskell of Easley; and seven grandchildren, Jasey, Heath, Andrew, Jack, Matthew, Malory and Abigail. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Seaborn was predeceased by a son, Jason Heath Seaborn.
Funeral services were held March 31 at Rock Springs Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Rock Springs Baptist Church Music Ministry, 201 Rock Springs Road, Easley, SC 29642.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Larry Lesley
Easley — Larry Lesley, 63, was called home on March 28, 2017, to be with his Lord. He was born in Pickens on August 18, 1953. Larry was son to the late J.D. and Mary Lesley.
Larry was an avid deer hunter, fisherman and loved anything outdoors.
Larry is survived by his sister, Patsy Taylor (Charles); and brothers David Lesley (Linda) and Sammy Lesley.
Larry is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Services were held March 30 in the Blue Ridge View Baptist Church sanctuary, officiated by Dr. Stuart Houston, with burial following at Blue Ridge View Baptist Church Cemetery.
Flowers will be accepted at Mountain View Funeral Home, 105 Florence Street, Pickens SC 29671.
Mountain View Funerals and Cremations is serving the Lesley family.
Ardean “Buddy” Melton
Easley — Mr. Ardean Edward “Buddy” Melton, Jr., 69, husband of Patricia Langford Melton, passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2017, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
Born in Albany, Ga., a son of the late Ardean Edward Melton, Sr. and the late Marinell Foster Melton, Mr. Melton retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad with 35 years of service and was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church. He was a U.S. National Guard veteran.
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 27 years, are a son, Matthew Edward Melton and his fiancée, Summer Brooke Williams, both of Easley; two daughters, Kimberly Dianne Melton and Michelle Marie Melton, both of Easley; two sisters, Maridean Maxwell and Freddie Nations, both of Albany, Ga.; and one grandson, Matthew Hunter Melton.
Funeral services were held April 1 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following in the Melton Family Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
J. Campbell Martin
Clemson — John Campbell Martin, husband of Willie Chiles Martin, died on March 28, 2017.
Campbell was a native of Orangeburg, a son of the late William Belton and Mary Mignonne Lowman Martin. He graduated from Clemson College, completed a Master’s degree at MIT, a PhD at NC State University. He taught in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department of Clemson University. Campbell authored many technical papers, and a textbook, The Successful Engineer, published by McGraw Hill.
He is survived by his wife, Willie Chiles; and daughters Dianne Martin (William Utic) of Fremont, Calif., Cynthia Martin Freeman (Terry) of Winston Salem, N.C., Patrice Martin-Perkins (Henry Perkins III) of Simpsonville; grandchildren Emily Freeman Reed (Robbie) of Austin Texas, Christopher Freeman (Nicki) of Charlotte, N.C., Sloane Perkins of Simpsonville; and great-granddaughter Betsy Reed.
He was preceded in death by his brother, William Martin, and sisters Jane Martin Schmalz and Mignonne Martin Sullivan.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. April 7 at St. Andrew Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrew Catholic Church Building Fund or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central.
James Rhodes
Easley — James Rhodes, husband of Susan Rhodes, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2017.
Born in Greenville, he was the son of the late Ray and Thelma Rhodes.
Surviving in addition to his loving wife are his two sons, Marty Rhodes (Kristy) and Michael E.K. Rhodes; and seven grandchildren.
He was an avid collector of everything interesting, including coins and baseball cards, but he mostly enjoyed having family fun.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Rhodes was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Ray Rhodes.
A memorial service was held April 3 at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church Building Fund, Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, 101 Pisgah Road, Easley, SC 29642 http://mtpbc.net/online-giving/.
Condolences may be expressed online at robinsonfuneralhomes.com, or in person at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Mary Catherine A. White
Easley — Mrs. Mary Catherine Adair White, 86, wife of Robert Danny White, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2017, at St. Francis Hospital.
Born in Gastonia, N.C., a daughter of the late Theodore Grigg “Red” Adair and the late Margie Weaver Adair, Mrs. White was the personal assistant to Henderson Belk of Henderson Belk Enterprises for more than 20 years and was of the Methodist faith.
Surviving, in addition to her husband of 44 years, are a sister, Gustava “Gus” Adair White of Gastonia, N.C.; a niece, Julie White Holland (Randy) of Gastonia, N.C.; two nephews, Dr. J. Scott Robinson, Jr. (Cathy) of Simpsonville, and Robert “Tip” H. Robinson, Jr. (Sally) of Greer; numerous great-nieces and nephews; and two great-great-nephews. In addition to her parents, Mrs. White was predeceased by a sister, Billie Adair Robinson; and two brothers-in-law, Rev. Robert “Bob” H. Robinson, Sr. and William “Bill” C. White.
Private memorial services were held.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to the American Heart Association, 3535 Pelham Road Greenville, SC 29615.
Condolences may be expressed online at robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home–Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Elizabeth Ann Altman
Easley — Elizabeth Ann Altman, our own personal Wonder Woman, was lost to us, Tuesday March 28, 2017, at the young age of 65, at home.
She was born a gift to John and Clara Ellys at Long Island Jewish Hospital, Jan. 26, 1952, and is survived by her loving husband Joel Altman; her three beloved children Denise Apolaro, DJ (Jimena) Apolaro and Katie (Brian) Bolde; sister Jane Ellys (Peter); grandchildren Stephanie and Dominick Apolaro; as well as friends; all whom loved her dearly.
Beth was a fiercely independent woman, who started her life as a proud New Yorker and found a new home in Easley upon coming up for what was supposed to be a quick visit and ended, in a life changing move. She was most happy sitting on her porch enjoying the fresh air, sun on her face as well as the night stars.
Beth enjoyed spending time with her family and was always up for a get together with the girls, the more mischief the better. Known to some as a Mermaid, she loved any chance she got to be in the water and coffee club time after, was not to be missed.
A celebration of her life was held April 1 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. The family politely requested those attending wear her favorite color blue. The family will receive people at her home to continue the celebration.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
Nell Norris
Six Mile — Nell Nicholson Norris, 77, of 130 Bonnybrae Road, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 1, 2017, at St. Francis Hospital.
Born in Pineville, N.C. she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Ollie Baker Nicholson.
She retired from Cone Mills, then later on worked at Durham’s Service Station in Six Mile, and was a member of Faith Baptist Church.
Surviving are her husband, Rev. Jack N. Norris of the home; a daughter, Cindy Leitzsey of Six Mile; a son, Joseph Hyatt of Canada; a sister, Terry Inman (Bill) of Pineville, N.C.; two grandchildren, Jesse Leitzsey (Deana) and Kassi Leitzsey (Clint) all of Six Mile; four great-grandchildren, Jaden, Paizlee, Logan, and Cole; a nephew, Jack Costner of Seneca.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by eight brothers and sisters, and a son in law, Horace Leitzsey.
Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Norris will be 11a.m. Wednesday April 5 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. Burial will be at Faith Baptist Church Cemetery.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.
Mary Edna
Massingill Ellenburg
PICKENS — On Sunday, April 2, 2017, Mary Edna Massingill Ellenburg, 98, widow of Wyatt E. Ellenburg, affectionately known as “Meme” by her grandchildren and many others who knew her, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
She loved her family dearly, her church and most of all God.
She was the daughter of the late Jim Massingill and Irene Lark Massingill. Surviving are six children Marvin (Gail) Ellenburg of Easley, Carolyn (Bill) Freeman, Elizabeth (Jarvis) Donald, David (Reba) Ellenburg, Judy (Charles) Anthony all of Pickens and Rachel (Fred) Baldwin of Liberty. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Survivors also include two sisters, Addie Lee Collins of Pickens and Ruby Stancell of Easley. Meme was preceded in death by a brother J. P. Massingill.
Meme was a faithful member of Morning Star Baptist Church and in previous churches she attended she served as a Sunday School teacher, Bible School teacher and was a humble servant in other capacities of the church.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 5 at Dillard Funeral Home, burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. The family is at the home.
Memorials may be made to the mission fund of Morning Star Baptist Church, 111 North Cedar Rock Road, Easley, SC 29640, at the request of Mrs. Ellenburg.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Randall Smith
Easley — Randall Smith, 63, was called home on March 28, 2017 to be with his Lord.
He was born in Greenville on Jan. 2, 1954. Randall was son to the late James F. and Alma Montez Smith.
Randall is survived by his daughter Andrea Roper, granddaughter Ava Lewis and his cat Smokey. Randall is also survived by three brothers and two sisters.
Randall was predeceased by one brother and one sister.
Gathering of family and friends was held April 3 in the chapel of Mountain View Funerals and Cremations.
Mountain View Funerals and Cremations is serving the Smith family.
Harold “Banny” Garrett
SIX MILE — Harold “Banny” Garrett, 82, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 2, 2017, at St. Francis Hospital-Downtown.
Mr. Garrett was born, raised and lived in Six Mile all of his life. He was the son of the late B.T. and Vera Stewart Garrett. In 2009, he received the Town of Six Mile Resident of the Year Award, and he was a member of Mountain View Baptist Church. Mr. Garrett was retired from Clemson University, and he loved and supported all Clemson Tiger sports! He was a volunteer for United Way Ministries and enjoyed traveling with his wife.
Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Doris Powell Garrett; one sister, Alta McGee and one sister-in-law, Becky Garrett.
Along with his parents, Mr. Garrett was predeceased by one sister, Virginia Stenstrom and two brothers, Milfred “Bluff” Garrett and William “Tater” Garrett.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 5 at Dillard Funeral Home Chapel, with receiving of friends prior from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family.
James H. Scruggs
Easley — James H. Scruggs Jr. (Jimmy), 43, of 203 S. 7th St., Easley, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, March 21, 2017, at Baptist Easley Hospital.
He was born in Pickens County, a son of the late James Horace Scruggs Sr. and Wanda Jane Aiken. Surviving him is a son James Horace “Trey” Scruggs III; and a daughter Serenity Jane Scruggs of Easley. He also left behind a fiance, Felicia Starr McClain of Easley, and a sister, Cheryl Ann Hannah of Liberty.
Mr. Scruggs was a kind hearted man and a wonderful father that loved spending time with his kids and loved them very much. There were many hobbies he liked to do; playing horseshoes, basketball, shooting pool, but most of all spending time with his family.
Mountain View Funerals and Cremations is serving the Scruggs family.
Don R. Autry
Easley — Don Ralph Autry, 66, of Ridge Point Road, passed away Sunday, April 2, 2017, at his home.
Born in Spruce Pine, N.C., he was a son of the late Ralph and Jenny Hicks Autry.
Mr. Autry was retired from Kraft Foods in Charlotte after 37 years of dedicated service. He enjoyed golfing and coaching little league sports in Easley and was a U.S. Air Force veteran.
Surviving are his wife of the home, Linda Pitman Autry; a daughter, Jennifer D. Bennefield (Melvin) of Easley; a son, Christopher Shawn Autry (Stephanie) of Easley; grandchildren, Ashley Ridley, Lodie Autry, Gavin Marsh, Nikolas Autry, and Isabella Marsh; step grandchildren, Jocelyn Pronovost, Collin Pronovost and Isaiah Chastain; great grandchildren, Maci, Michelle and Madelyn Ridley; and a sister, Amanda Stafford of Asheville, N.C.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Ricky Autry.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 6 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road with burial to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends prior to the service on Thursday from 12-12:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Flowers will be accepted.
The family will be at the home.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, which is assisting the family.
Billy Garnett Dickenson
Easley — Billy Garnett Dickenson, 68, husband of Sandra Elaine Dickenson, went home to be with his Savior on March 31, 2017, following a brave battle with long-term illness.
Born in Greenwood, he was the son of William and Edith Dickenson. Billy graduated from Carolina High School in 1967. He earned his associates degree from Greenville Technical College. He went on to teach at Clemson University and Greenville Technical College. He finished his career by working and later retiring from General Electric.
Billy was a steadfast Christian and man who dearly loved his family and country. Billy was a true guitarist whose style was similar to the late great Chet Atkins. He loved Country, Rock, and Gospel music. He also loved to draw and was a great cartoonist who could draw caricatures of just about anyone from memory. Billy had a passion for baseball and dedicated his time to supporting his favorite team, the Atlanta Braves.
Billy is survived by his devoted wife Sandra Dickenson; and his three daughters Sheree (Mitchell) Ramey, Tammy (Trey) Tucker, and Paige (Russ) Bagwell. He loved his many grandchildren, Corey Ramey, Skyler Bagwell, Mac Churchwell, Savannah Bagwell, Laine Tucker, Logan Ramey, Leah Tucker, Tate Churchwell, and Rynn Bagwell. He is also survived by his brother Michael (Barbara) Dickenson and sister Polly Taylor. Billy also loved his sister-in-law and caregiver during his illness, Carolyn “Sarge” Kay.
Services were held April 3 at Hillcrest Mausoleum with Funeral following, his niece Nikki Dickenson and Reverend Wayne Powell officiating the service.
He will be missed but never forgotten.