GUSSIE LAVAUGHN ROSS

PICKENS — Gussie LaVaughn Ross, 80, passed away on July 8, 2024, after several years of declining health.

Miss Ross was born on Oct. 28, 1943, and was the daughter of the late William A. “Gus” Ross and Flora Aiken Ross of Rocky Bottom, S.C. She graduated Pickens High School in 1961 and entered Anderson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, beginning a nursing career that ultimately spanned over four decades. She first worked at Anderson Memorial Hospital and later at Duke University, where she assisted with multiple kidney transplants in the pioneer years of transplant operations. She spent most of her adult life living in Stone Mountain, Ga. serving as a charge nurse at Grady Memorial Hospital in downtown Atlanta, opening the HIV/AIDS floor in the late 1980s and then moving to the Tuberculosis unit until her retirement. She had a special connection with the local homeless population near the main hospital and took extensive lengths to care for their physical and other needs, earning a special recognition from Georgia legislators in 1985 for her work with the poor and needy. She was beloved by her colleagues and patients for her exceptional knowledge and care and remained on the Grady staff until her retirement in December 2005.

She never married and had no biological children, but “Aunt Von” helped raise a whole army of “younguns” in her lifetime. Her nieces, nephews, and their children and grandchildren (and anyone else who came along with them) were privileged to hear her belly laughs and her stories about the crazy happenings in an inner-city hospital. She loved flea markets and thrifting and always brought “blessings,” as she called them, and you could count on a special treat every time she came home from Georgia.

Miss Ross is survived by her brother, Roy Ross of Easley and her sister and caregiver, Sandra Anderson (Gary), with whom she lived for the past 10 years. She also leaves behind her special, beloved friends, “Grandma” Sara Lewis and Monzel Anderson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her infant nephew, Jason Roy Ross and her sister-in-law, Carolyn Ross.

She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews; Angela Dalton (Spencer), Shana Dalton (Jason), Jonathan Anderson (Sadie), Alex Simmons (Stacy), Rev. Justin Anderson (Katie), Jessica Landers (Kyle); great-nieces and nephews; Storie Edwards, Joey Dalton, Chloe Dalton, Kinsley and Audrey Kate Simmons, Andy, Gracey, Willy, Evonne (Evie), Truman, Maisy and Walker Anderson and Ayken, Mack and Vallie Landers; and great-great nephews; Braylon and Braxton Edwards, all of whom regard her as a second mother and a vital part of their upbringing. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

Visitation will be held on July 12, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service in Rocky Bottom Baptist Church Cemetery in Sunset.

The family especially wishes to thank Jennifer and Tina from her Prisma Hospice Care team.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials can be made to Gideons’ International, Shriner’s Hospital in Greenville, and the Prisma Health Children’s Hospital-Upstate in Greenville.

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

 

JOYCE DURHAM MCGAHA

PICKENS — Joyce Durham McGaha, 75, of Pickens, passed away in her home on Saturday, July 6, 2024.

Joyce was born in Pickens to the late Junior and Ruth Durham. She was a faithful member of Rock Springs Baptist Church, and enjoyed being outside working in her yard, camping or going to the beach. A devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she loved spending time with her family. During her working career, she owned a daycare for 23 years and later worked for the School District of Pickens County as a lunch aide.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Pamela Shaffer (Regis Shaffer); her two brothers, Stanley Durham and Brian Durham; two granddaughters, Savannah Fowler (Andrew) and Sydney Shaffer (Tyler); a grandson, Chase Shaffer; and her three great-granddaughters, Lyla, Sophie and one on the way. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James C. McGaha; her parents; a brother, Steve Durham; and her sister, Linda Smith.

A funeral service for Joyce will be held at 11 a.m. July 10 at Dillard Funeral Home, located at 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway in Pickens. A committal service will follow at Red Hill Baptist Church Cemetery at 558 Red Hill Road in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joyce’s memory may be made to Tabernacle Children’s Home.

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

WILLIAM ‘BILL/BILLY’ WILSON SR.

HARTSELLE, Ala. — William “Bill/Billy” B. Wilson Sr., 87, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2024, in Hartselle, Ala.

Born on Nov. 1, 1936, in Elizabeth City, N.C., Billy served his country honorably for five years in the U.S. Army and 15 years as a member of the U.S. Air Force and was a Bronze Star recipient. Following his military service, he dedicated more than 25 years of his professional life as a skilled computer programmer technician for National Cash Register (NCR), AT&T, and Cornell Dubilier.

Billy had a love for new electronics and any new devices he could get his hands on. His greatest joy was waiting for the newest iPhone to come out.

Billy is survived by his children, Teressa Disharoon (Dean) of Frankfort, Del., William (Root) Wilson Jr. (Anita) of Hastselle Ala., Cathy Bearden (David) of Easley and Pam Stewart (Barry) of Central; and his grandchildren, Ryan Wilson, Logan Wilson and Madison Wilson. He also leaves behind his sister, Betty Lou Byrum (Paul).

He was predeceased in death by his wife, Carolyn Williams Wilson; parents, Charlie Jackson Wilson and Glennie Cartwright Wilson; as well as his brother, Henry Wilson; and sisters, Audrey Colson and Charlotte Ann Hampton.

A private service and entombment will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please continue praying for the family.

Billy will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

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

NORMA BRITAIN WHALEY RICHARDSON

EASLEY — Norma Britain Whaley Richardson, a beloved member of the Easley community, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2024, just shy of her 92nd birthday.

Norma was born on July 7, 1932, in Lancaster, where she lived until 2005. Most of her career was spent at Springs Industries. After retiring, she dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for others, specifically the little ones. Ms. Norma, as she was affectionately called by those in the Wee Program in Lancaster’s First Baptist Church, positively influenced the lives of countless children. After relocating to the Upstate, she worked with the 2-3-year-olds at Mothers Morning Out.

Her passion for helping others extended beyond the classroom. Since 2009, she has been a faithful volunteer at Baptist Easley Hospital, amassing more than 10,000 hours of volunteer time, always providing comfort and support to patients and their families. She was an avid reader, who especially loved to read God’s word, and led Sunday school classes for more than 60 years.

Norma was also known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to maintaining an active life as she gracefully aged. She could often be found attending exercise classes, where she inspired others with her enthusiasm and energy.

Norma’s legacy is one of kindness, encouragement, service and faith. She cherished her friends in the Ruth Sunday school class at Rock Springs Baptist, where she was a member. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She leaves behind her daughter, Kathryn Haynes (Frank); grandchildren, Elizabeth Wheaton (Andrew), William (Kylie) and Alexa; and her three great granddaughters, who loved their “Nana.” She is also survived by her sister, Martha Lowery (Ken).

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; her son, Allen; four brothers, two sisters and her parents, W.B and Ruth Wallace Whaley.

A graveside service was held July 7 at Zion Methodist Church cemetery in Lancaster.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Easley Headquarters Library, 304 Biltmore Road, Easley or to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at breakthrought1d.org/ways-to-give/.

“A Mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take.” — Cardinal Meermillod

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

 

HOMER PALMER HALSEY

EASLEY — Homer Palmer Halsey, 93, of Easley, passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Palmer was born in Kyle’s Station, Ohio, to the late George and Edith Halsey on Jan. 8, 1931.

He proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He later received his master’s degree from Youngstown State University; and began his career in research electrical engineering at Youngstown Sheet and Tube in Ohio, retiring from JE Sirrine. With a strong work ethic, he enjoyed what he did and acquired multiple patents throughout his career. He enjoyed participating in senior sports classics, including swimming, archery, running and kayaking.

Palmer is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Susan Halsey; his three sons, John Halsey (Brooke), David Halsey and Fred Halsey (Pam); daughter, Kate Childers (Julius Heaton); nine grandchildren, Lisa, John, Bryce, Victoria, Laura, JD, Michael, Daniel and Cody; five great-grandchildren, Alex, Rylee, Karter, Ethan and Georgie; niece, Charmayne; and nephews Todd, Scott, Rick and Carl.

Palmer was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and a granddaughter, Brandi.

A memorial service for Palmer was held on July 8 at 5 Point Church in Easley.

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

 

KIMBERLEY ANN TATE

CENTRAL — Kimberley Ann Tate, 57, passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Majesty Health and Rehab in Easley.

Born Dec. 1, 1966, in Greenville County, Kimberley was the daughter of the late Leroy Owens and Peggy McCarter Owens. Mrs. Tate worked at Walmart and loved her job. She enjoyed watching movies and loved children dearly.

Survivors include her sister, Tammy Johnson (William Powers) of Coral Springs, Fla.; a nephew, Jason Gray; and a niece, Kara Sheriff.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Tate was predeceased by a brother, Leroy Owens Jr.

Memorial donations in Kimberley’s honor may be made to the American Diabetes Association by visiting diabetes.org.

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

 

JEANNE D. SAULS

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the home going of Jeanne Dickens Sauls, a beloved wife, mother, and member of the community. Born in Columbia, she graced the world with her presence on Sept. 12, 1946, and brought light and love to all who knew her. On July 8, 2024, she passed away peacefully at the Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.

Jeanne was a devoted member of Liberty United Methodist Church, where she had shared her faith and wisdom as a Sunday school teacher. Her love for mystery and fiction novels kept her mind sharp, while her commitment to physical health led her to the YMCA to exercise regularly. A true adventurer at heart, Jeanne explored all 48 states in the continental US, leaving no corner unexplored. Her zest for life and enthusiasm for new experiences inspired all who knew her.

She was the daughter of the late Walter Allen Dickens, Jr. and the late Ernestine McManus Dickens. In her 57-year marriage to her cherished husband, Clarendon Rodney “Rod” Sauls, Jeanne exemplified love and dedication. The bond they shared was unbreakable, a testament to the strength of their union.

She treasured every moment spent with her family. Surviving in addition to her husband are her two sons, Steve Sauls (Susan) of Liberty and Brad Sauls (Lila Anna) of Columbia; a daughter, Sherri Coates (Brian) of Orangeburg; a brother Randy Dickens of Chapin; a sister-in-law, Barbara Dickens (widow of Walter Allen Dickens, III) of Irmo; nine grandchildren, Emily, Michael, Colin, Aidan, Graeme, Heath, Taylor (Tuck), Hunter and Harrison; and two great-granddaughters, Emerson and Ava.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Walter Allen Dickens, III.

A celebration of Jeanne’s remarkable life will take place at 1 p.m. July 12, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be prior to the service from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the mortuary. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Greenville.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Jeanne’s memory to your favorite charitable organization.

You may share memories and offer condolences to the family by visiting libertymortuary.com Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

MATTHEW REDDING

PICKENS — Matthew Redding, 27, loving husband to Lillian Redding, went to be with his Lord and savior Jesus on Friday, June 21, 2024.

Matthew was born in Greenville on Feb. 13, 1997, to David and Susan Redding. He was loved by so many. Matthew loved life. He loved fishing, riding his side by side, working on his trucks, playing with his puppies, moving dirt and, most of all, spending time with his friends and family. He had too many hobbies to count and was good at everything he put his mind to. He had so many friends who loved him and was the life of the party for everyone who knew him. He was everything a husband, son, brother and friend should be and so much more.

In addition to his wife and parents, Matthew is survived by a brother, Logan Redding (Stephanie) of Pickens; sister, Rachelle Hudson of Central; his grandfather, Dean Childs of Pickens; and his grandmother, Sarah Mae Redding of Pickens.

Matthew was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mary Childs; and his grandfather, Gillis Redding.

Funeral arrangements took place on June 27 at Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens.

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

 

THOMAS EDWARD TRIMNAL

SIX MILE — Thomas Edward Trimnal, 70, passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at his home, surrounded by family.

Born Feb. 27, 1954, in Kershaw County, Thomas was the son of the late Furman Franklin Trimnal and Ida Gunnells Trimnal. Thomas was known by most as “Catfish” and was known as “Papa Fish” by his grandchildren. He loved working on cars and doing woodwork. He enjoyed giving popsicles and Dum Dums out to kids.

He knew hard work and instilled respect in his children and taught respect to others. He loved his family dearly and lived for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his children, Randy Gilliland (Amanda) of Six Mile, Elaine Collins (Chris) of Six Mile, Joey Trimnal (Jennifer) of Easley, Patty Kent of Duncan and Kerri Blanton (Keith) of Easley; 17 loving grandchildren; 29 most precious great-grandchildren; siblings, Carolyn Amerson (Herbert) of Easley, Frankie Trimnal (Debra) of Pickens, Marie Harris (Lawerence) of Liberty and Rick Trimnal (Ann) of Pickens; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Trimnal was predeceased by a sister, Patricia Williams; a brother, Gary Trimnal; and a special friend, Debbie Thurston.

Visitation will be held from 2-3 p.m. July 10 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with a memorial service to follow at 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Thomas’s honor may be made to Angels Among Us Rescue and Boarding, 107 Campground Road, Liberty, SC 29657.

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

 

 

JOHN EDWARD BRASWELL

 

SIX MILE — John Edward Braswell, 73, of Six Mile, passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at his home.

John was born on May 22, 1951, in Morgan County, Ga., to the late Vernie Leroy Braswell and Sarah Christine Baxley Braswell.

John served in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. He was stationed in Homestead, Fla., and White Sands, N.M. John loved spending time with his family and friends and enjoyed music and NASCAR.

Survivors include his children, Jonathan Quixote of Athens, Ga., Pebbles Nabors (Phillip) of Six Mile, Gene McCall of Six Mile and Denise Rowland of Seneca; grandchildren, Angel, Haven, Dawson and Gabby; sisters, Ruth Spratlin of Monroe, Ga., Rebecca Ann Montgomery of Watkinsville, Ga., Linda Butler of Lagrange Ga., and Charlotte Craft of Eatonton, Ga.; many loving nieces and nephews; his special love, Kathy Calloway of Six Mile; and a special friend, Ray Gilliam of Commerce, Ga.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Braswell was predeceased by his brothers, William Braswell, Tim Braswell, Ray Braswell and Gene Braswell; and a sister, Frances Wall.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s honor may be made to your local Veterans Administration.

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

 

STACEY THRIFT CHAPMAN

PICKENS — Stacy Thrift Chapman, 56, from Pickens, passed away unexpectedly in her home on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, from respiratory and cardiac complications.

Stacey was the daughter of the late Geraldine (Brooks) and Ted Thrift of Pickens. She is survived by her only daughter, Lauren Hall (Catlin); two grandchildren, Austin and Riley; and her two brothers, David Thrift (Chandra) and Mike Thrift (Nancy).

Stacey served her community as a well-loved housekeeper and pet sitter. She treated her clients’ pets as if they were her own family and cared for their homes with extreme professionalism. She took a great amount of pride in her work and love for animals. She loved her dogs, Dallas and Harley, deeply and spoiled them rotten.

She had an abounding amount of love and pride for her grandkids, Austin and Riley, showing them off at every chance to whomever would listen.

Per Stacey’s wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial services held. You are welcome to send condolences or visit with the family at the home of Lauren and Catlin Hall in Central. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the local animal shelter/rescue of your choice.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the family.

 

MILDRED P. MURRELL

EASLEY — Mildred Powell Murrell, 85, of Easley, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

Born in Pickens County, she was a daughter of the late Rev. Johnnie C. Powell and Lois Patterson Powell.

Mrs. Murrell retired as a teacher with Cobb County School District in Georgia after 33 years of dedicated service. Being a teacher, she had a love for educating children. She was a member of Georges Creek Baptist Church in Easley and enjoyed family gatherings at their home and the lake. She loved being outside working in her yard, playing tennis and attending church with her friends. Mildred loved music. With her sisters, she would sing on WELP radio station in Easley during The Evangelistic Hour with their father, Rev. Johnnie Powell.

Surviving are her husband, Gene I. Murrell; her children, Tim Murrell (Sally), Tab Murrell (Jennie), Jan Thorp (Ken), Leigh Moyer and Gena Garrett (Scott), all of Easley; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren with three more on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a son, Danny Patterson; and sisters, Shelba Powell Couch and Joyce Powell Martin.

Funeral services were held July 7 at Georges Creek Baptist Church in Easley. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Honorary pallbearers were be the Abundant Life Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Georges Creek Baptist Church, 1991 Saluda Dam Road, Easley, SC 29640, georgescreekbaptist.org or call the church for donations at (864) 859-6789.

The family will be at their respective homes.

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

 

PATRICIA RAMPEY

CENTRAL — Patricia Rampey, 74, of Central, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, June 28, 2024.

Patricia was born on June 20, 1950, in Toccoa, Ga. to the late J.C. and Ruth Bracken. She was a school bus driver for more than 20 years and enjoyed tending to her flowers. She also loved to travel with her special friend, Louise Pilgrim.

Patricia is survived by her brothers, Joe Bracken (Rhonda) of Norris and Jimmy Bracken (Deborah) of Liberty; her goddaughter, Holly Melton (Johnny); her grandson, Andrew Cook; and sister-in-law, Darlene Nix (Cliff). She also leaves numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 38 years, Patrick Rampey; her parents; and her sister, Mildred Cox.

A funeral service for Patricia was held July 6 at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home in Pickens. A committal service followed at Liberty Memorial Gardens in Liberty.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Patricia’s memory may be made to Upstate Hospice.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting dillardfunerals.com.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

HAROLD HENRY LYNCH

SUNSET — Harold Henry Lynch, 87, loving husband of 63 years to Martha Cassell Lynch, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, July 5, 2024.

Born Jan. 16, 1937, in Pickens County, at the family home on Sliding Rock Road just off what is now known as Scenic Highway 11, Harold was the son of the late Robert Leonard Lynch and Rosa Talley Lynch.

Harold lived most of his life within miles of his birthplace in the shadows of Table Rock. He worked hard all his life and especially enjoyed working with his hands. He began with Singer Manufacturing at the age of 18, later worked for Larry Hinkle Jeep Sales, and spent several treasured years as a park ranger at Table Rock State Park and Keowee Toxaway State Park. He retired from Milliken Company (Galey Plant) in 1998. Harold was a faithful member of Holly Springs Baptist Church for more than 60 years. He loved tinkering in his shop, doing yard work and always having a home project to keep him busy. Most importantly, he was a man of deep faith and deep faithful love to his family.

Survivors include his loving wife, Martha Ann Cassell Lynch; a son, Randall H. Lynch (Dana) of Sunset; and a daughter, Rosanne L. Morris (Jason), also of Sunset. He was Papa to four grandchildren, Brandon Lynch, Bryeton Morris (Caroline), Luke Morris and Ellie Morris, who all will share in his memory.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Lynch was predeceased by two brothers, Robert Millard Lynch and William David Lynch; a sister, Rosa Mae Lynch Revis; a brother-in-law, John Douglas Cassell; and a sister-in-law, Carol Fisher Cassell.

Visitation will be held from 10:30-11:30 a.m. July 11 in the sanctuary of Holly Springs Baptist Church in Pickens, with funeral services to follow at 11:30 a.m. officiated by Rev. Barry Dilworth. Burial will follow the service in the Holly Springs Baptist Church cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted.

The family would like to express their extreme gratitude to the St. Francis staff for the outstanding care they provided in the final day of their father.

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