BERTHA C. DAY

PICKENS — Our mama, Bertha C. Day, 91, of Pickens, went into the arms of Jesus at her Heavenly home on Friday, July 19, 2024.

Born in Pickens, she was the daughter of the late Brian and Eunice Clark.

On earth, mama worshiped at Blue Ridge View Baptist Church, where she sang and praised God.

Bertha is survived by her two daughters, Judy Seawright (Junior) and Tammy Whitlock (Chris); two grandchildren, Randy Whitehead (Melissa) and Travis Whitehead (Hannah); six great-grandchildren, Cassie Whitehead, Alysha Turner (Brendan), Amanda Whitehead, Bailey Whitehead, Lilly Whitehead and Michael White; sister, Verna Abercrombie; and brother-in-law, Roger Day.

In addition to her parents, she was welcomed into Heaven by her beloved husband, Glenn W. Day; daughter, Barbara Day; sisters, Jennette Riggins (Melvin) and Fannie Pace (W.T.); brother, Walt Clark (Tillie); brother-in-law, James Abercrombie; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; friends and family.

Friends and family said “See you later” during a service on July 23 at Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens. Bertha was laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Flowers will be accepted, or contributions in Bertha’s memory may be made to Blue Ridge View Baptist Church Youth Fund.

We will see her again one sweet day, if we all trust in Jesus as our Lord.

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

 

VALDIMER ‘VAL’ S. DYCHES

EASLEY — Dr. Valdimer “Val” S. Dyches, of Easley, husband of Kathy A. Dyches, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Orangeburg, he was the son of the late Valdimer S. Dyches Sr. and Nell Lide Dyches.

Val served as a first lieutenant in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was strong in his Christian faith. He received his B.S. degree from Clemson University and his O.D. degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn. Dr. Dyches served the Easley community for 37 years in optometry with his partner, Dr. Jim Lyday. Dr. Dyches then practiced at Jervey Eye Group, retiring in 2008. His professional affiliations included the American Optometric Association, the South Carolina Optometric Association and the Piedmont Optometric Society. His civic activities include serving as past chairman of Greenville Technical College’s Vision Assistants Program Advisory Committee and past member of the board of directors of the Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce. Honor organizations include Beta Kappa International Honorary Fraternity and the Gold Key Honor Society.

Throughout his life, Dr. Dyches played an active role in the Easley community, a place he treasured deeply. His dedication and commitment to improving the lives of those around him will never be forgotten.

Val loved his family and was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Val was an avid Clemson football fan and enjoyed fishing after retirement.

Along with his beloved wife of 28 years, Val is survived by his daughter, Valeri Dyches Davis (Brad); two sons, Kevin Crawford (Candice) and Kyle Crawford (Ashton); eight grandchildren, Hayes, Grace and Nicholas Davis, Jackson, Aubrie and Lane Crawford, Logan Stewart and Kimber Bentley, who all adoringly called him “Papa.”

The family will receive friends from 1-2:15 p.m. July 27 at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow the visitation in the funeral home chapel at 2:30 p.m.

Let all those who knew and loved him cherish the memories they shared with him. He may have left this world, but his spirit and infectious smile will continue to live on in the hearts of all those who knew him.

In remembrance of Dr. Valdimer “Val” S. Dyches, let us celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will endure for years to come.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Via Health Partners, 1003 Grove Road, Suite E, Greenville, SC 29605 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 123 W. Antrim Drive, Greenville, SC 29607.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home-Central

NANCY ELIZABETH BROWN REECE

PICKENS — Nancy Elizabeth Brown Reece, 85, of Pickens, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Born in Pickens, she was the daughter of the late Aldine and Olin Brown. Nancy was a former member of Griffin Baptist Church, where she loved teaching Sunday school. She later became a member of Grace United Methodist Church, where she also taught Sunday school and loved to sing in the choir.

As an administrator at DHEC in Greenville, she showed her strong work ethic and passion for her career, as she was always dedicated and dependable. She was an avid reader and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Edna Bowers (Randy); her son, Olin Reece (Laura); granddaughter, Kahlea Reece; grandson, Kasper Reece; brothers, William Brown, James Brown and Edgar Brown; and sisters, Martha Crowe, Susan Brown, Mary Nix and Frances Hart. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 60 years, Richard Reece; and her two brothers, Robert and Samuel Brown.

A memorial service for Nancy was held on July 20 at Grace United Methodist Church in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, “The Faith We Sing” Hymnal fund, or to Rainey Hospice House.

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

 

FLOYD MELVIN NEAL SR.

EASLEY — Floyd Melvin Neal Sr., 71, passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.

Born on Feb. 17, 1953, he was the son of the late Melvin Neal and Ruth Neal.

Floyd is remembered for his love of his family and especially spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mr. Neal is survived by his children, Floyd Neal Jr. of Liberty and Marie Lee Galloway of Pickens; siblings, Janie Anders and Rosa Edwards; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many more loving friends and family.

In addition to his parents, Floyd was predeceased by his children, Dedra Neal and Allen Lee; grandson, Jayden Neal; and siblings, Lloyd Neal and Earline Moore.

Flowers are accepted.

The family will receive friends from noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at Mountain View Funerals and Cremations – Pickens Chapel. A memorial service will follow the visitation from 1-2 p.m.

The family is at the home of Bobby and Lynn Chapman, 258 Hayes Road, Pickens.

Mountain View Funerals and Cremations – Pickens Chapel is assisting the family of Mr. Neal.

 

TIMOTHY LANE SMITH

LIBERTY — Timothy Lane Smith, 61, loving husband to Tracy Brewer Smith, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, July 15, 2024, at Prisma Health Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born Aug. 17, 1962, in Greenville, Lane was the son of the late Raburn R. Smith Sr. and Jessie Crumpton Smith. Mr. Smith was a member of Liberty First Baptist Church. He retired from General Electric. He loved music and he became a disc jockey at the age of 17. He was an avid outdoorsman and was always active. He loved fishing, hunting, and barbecuing.

Survivors include his wife, Tracy Brewer Smith of the home; a daughter, Chloe Smith of Easley; two sisters, Cindy Ballew (Tim) of Landrum and Vicky Chappell (Barry) of Liberty; a brother, Randy Smith (Debbie) of Easley; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Smith was predeceased by a brother, Ricky Smith.

The family held a memorial service on July 19 in the sanctuary of Liberty First Baptist Church, 400 Edgemont Ave., Liberty, SC 29657.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Lane’s honor may be made to Liberty First Baptist Church or the charity of choice.

The families will be at their respective homes.

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

 

PATRICIA DIANE CANTRELL

EASLEY — Patricia Diane Cantrell, 70, loving wife to the late Claude Cantrell, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at her home.

Born Feb. 21, 1954, in Easley, Diane was the daughter of the late Otis B. Chastain and Beulah Crowe Trotter. Diane dearly loved and lived for her family. She enjoyed traveling and especially enjoyed visiting Cherokee. She loved fishing, camping and her grandkids.

Survivors include a daughter, Michelle Powell (Keith) of Pickens; two sons, Lewis Kirk Jr. (Dawn Harper) and Otis Kirk, both of Easley; grandchildren, Mark, Michael, Everette, Breanna, Tapanga and Page; great-grandchildren, Jacie, Zayne, Cain, Nova, Ashtrid and Raelynn; siblings, Juantia Aiken (Tony) of Pickens, Sarah Aiken of Liberty, Wayne Chastain (Linda) of Easley, Glenda Brissey of Easley and Scott Trotter of Liberty; and many very special and loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Cantrell was predeceased by an uncle, Leroy Chastain, and a nephew, Robbie Chastain.

Visitation was held on July 20 in the sanctuary of Piedmont Church of God of Prophecy in Piedmont, with a memorial service following.

Flowers will be accepted, and deliveries may be made to 413 Highland Circle, Easley, SC 29640.

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

 

DONALD ‘DUCK’ LEWIS WHITE

LIBERTY — Donald “Duck” Lewis White, 64, husband to Donna McAlister White, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Born Feb. 7, 1960, in Fort Benning, Ga., Duck was the son of the late Billy Ernest White and Betty Merritt White. Mr. White lived a fast and hard life. He enjoyed watersports and loved riding his Harley.

Survivors include his wife, Donna McAlister White of Pickens; a daughter, D. Lindsey White of Charleston; a son, Dakota L. White of Easley; and a sister, Cindy Tierno (Kenny) of Easley.

In addition to his parents, Mr. White was predeceased by a brother, James White.

A graveside service was held at Greenville Memorial Gardens in Piedmont on July 23.

Flowers will be accepted.

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

 

CORENE GILSTRAP

PICKENS — Corene Gilstrap, 92, of Pickens, passed away on July 19, 2024.

She was born on Aug. 31, 1931 to Ross and Cora Gilstrap. She loved sewing, cooking, flowers and, most of all her, family.

Corene is survived by her brothers, Holland Gilstrap (Linda), Jerry Gilstrap (Betty) and Barney Gilstrap (Kathy); her sister, Shirley Guthrie; a sister-in-law, Joan Gilstrap; several beloved nieces and nephews; and a special nephew, Dennis McCarley, who she raised in her home.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers, Willard Gilstrap and Marshall Gilstrap; and her sisters, Carolyn McCarley and Earnestine Gilstrap.

A funeral service was held on July 22 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Burial took place in the Praters Creek Baptist Church cemetery.

The families will be at their respective homes.

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

 

DONNIE POWELL

CENTRAL — Donnie Ray Powell of Central, a beloved husband, father, brother and son, passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born in Pickens on Feb. 29, 1960, he was the only son of Mary Pilgrim Powell and the late Donald “Shot” Powell.

A Liberty High School graduate of the Class of 1978, he found his calling in service work, first with the Liberty Rescue Squad for nearly three decades, before becoming a cherished volunteer firefighter with the Liberty Fire Department until the end.

After years of service to his community, Donnie also found fulfillment in his work at Wilbert Plastics, where he applied his skills in maintenance until his retirement. A faithful member of Prayer Baptist Church, he lived his life with a devotion to his faith and the community he served.

In addition to his mother, he leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Patty Powell of the home; his children, Jimmy Powell (Monica) and Missy Sloan (Matthew); two sisters, Sandy Green (Keith) and Pam Anderson (Jack); five grandchildren, Caleb, Gabe, Austin, Brycen and Gunner; and numerous nieces and nephews he loved like his own grandchildren.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Kyle Sloan.

Funeral services to honor and celebrate Donnie’s life were conducted on July 19 at the Liberty Mortuary chapel. He was laid to rest at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

The family will be at the home.

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

 

HILDEGARD SHOVE

SIX MILE — Hildegard Shove, a kind soul known for her love of gardening and caring for her pets, passed away on July 14, 2024.

Born on Jan. 23, 1942, in Poland, she dedicated her professional life to maintenance work for Pickens County. She was the widow of David William Shove Sr. and a daughter of the late Hermann and Maria Gohl.

She leaves behind her loving children, Vieanna Hager, Junior Shove and Frank Shove.  She is also survived by a sister, Edith Kleeman; grandchildren, Sabrina Minder, Michele Mercier and Hope Mercier; and great-grandchildren, Justin Minder and Samira Minder.

The memorial service in her honor was held on July 20 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Norris.

In her free time, she found joy in tending to her garden and looking after her three cats and two dogs. Her compassionate nature and love for all living things will be dearly missed by family, friends and the community she served.

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

 

FAYE HERD

EASLEY — Maude Faybell Cannon Herd (Faye), 91, wife of the late Junior Ray Herd took her heavenly flight on Friday, July 19, 2024 as she was completely surrounded by her adoring family. She spent her last 13 days at The Cottingham Hospice House very close to where she began her life in West Union.

She has long-awaited the time she would be with her husband, first born daughter and the rest of her family. Most of all, she had been waiting to spend eternity with Jesus. She and Junior accepted Him as their Savior at the beginning of their marriage, 70 years ago this month. From then on, she lived for Jesus totally while sharing His message and love wherever she went to anyone who would listen. She would often say that when the Lord put something on her heart, she would do it without reservation. Her faith never wavered. She is now receiving her rewards for her service. She had a servant’s heart and always put others before herself. She was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church and the Anchor Bible Fellowship Class.

She was born in West Union and lived in Salem most of her formative years. Her family later moved to Walhalla and Seneca before marrying. She moved to Central when she married and lived there until Junior died in 2015. After his death, she lived with their daughter and son-in-law for seven years until she needed more care and moved to The Retreat of Easley. She adored the activities, residents and staff there. She was so happy. With Alzheimer’s progressing even more, she moved to the memory care wing at Clemson Heritage earlier this year. She loved her room, her new friends and the staff.

She met the love of her life while working at J. P. Stevens in Clemson. She left Stevens after almost three decades to open her flower shop where she worked until retirement. Her business was promptly dedicated to Jesus on opening day. After retirement, she volunteered thousands of hours at Central Elementary in her daughter’s classroom. She spoiled those honeybees while helping them learn. This was the highlight of her week. Her scheduled volunteer day was Friday; however, she volunteered when the mood struck. She was honored with the volunteer of the year for the entire school.  Needless to say, the surprise showed all over her face.  It is not surprising that she was called to Heaven on Friday as that was a happy day for her. Junior would often ask with a smile on his face, why did she move a bit faster on Fridays.

She leaves behind her adoring family which includes; her daughter and son-in-law, Jeff and Theresa Cooper of Easley; her grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Brandon and Anna Cooper of Easley; four great grandchildren, Kelsy Olivares and her husband Miguel of Pickens, Noah Gathers and Katie Gathers both of Anderson and Gavin Cooper of Greenville.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Junior Herd; daughter, Brenda Faye Herd; great-granddaughter, Savannah Grace Cooper; parents, Louie and Ella Ramey Smith Cannon; her brothers, Arthur and Lee Cannon and Henry Smith; sisters, Irene Pelfrey and Christine Cannon Hall Moore Browning. She was the last surviving member of her family.

For years, Faye prayed that the Lord would send the perfect husband to Theresa. Jeff came along and soon became like a son rather than a son-in-law. In turn, he treated her like a mother.  The apples of her eye were Theresa, Brandon and Kelsy. She wanted her babies with her as often as possible as she cooked their favorite foods and loved on them every chance that she got.

Faye’s hobbies included spending time with family, camping, chatting with friends, family and strangers and teaching Girl Scouts earlier in her life. She advanced to troop organizer leading several chapters for Central. It was a highlight to her when she and her troop were in a television commercial for J. P. Stevens.

Funeral services to celebrate and honor Faye’s life will be conducted 3 p.m. on July 26, at Rock Springs Baptist Church.  Following the service she will be laid to rest beside her husband at Mount Zion Cemetery in Central.  The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. at the Liberty Mortuary.

Flowers are most appreciated as she adored them and made a living owning her beloved Central Florist and Gifts. Of course, if the Lord puts it on your heart, please make donations to Prisma Health Cottingham Hospice House 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672.  To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com.

Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

BOBBY SLUDER

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bobby Ross Sluder. Born on Oct. 8, 1958, in Anderson, he was a son of the late Reverend Michael Sluder.

He passed away unexpectedly on Saturday July 20, 2024, at his residence in Liberty.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 30 years, Cindy Sluder of the home; his mother, Jean Sluder of Seneca; his children, Chad Sluder of the home, Sheena Rampey (Jayme) of Liberty and Courtney Zuber (Michael) of Easley; a brother, Tommy Sluder (Marva) of Seneca; four grandchildren, Jaymeson Rampey, Easton Zuber, Josie Rampey and Camryn Zuber; also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a sister, Susan Sluder.

Bobby’s career as a maintenance supervisor in manufacturing was at Shaw Industries until the closing of the plant.  Most recently he was employed by First Quality in Anderson. He was known for his expertise in mechanics and his versatility in fixing just about anything.

A proud Army veteran, Bobby served his country with honor. He was a member of Utica Baptist Church. Beyond his professional achievements, he found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. A diehard fan of Clemson, he was always seen cheering on his favorite team especially his grandchildren’s sporting events.

He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, particularly the outdoors. Hunting and fishing were more than hobbies to Bobby – they were opportunities to bond with his son Chad.

Memorial services to honor Bobby’s life will be conducted 2 p.m., July 25 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel.  The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30 until 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary.  A private burial will take place at a later date.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Pickens County Humane Society, 500 Five Forks Road, Liberty. He will forever be remembered for his willingness to help a friend, neighbor, family member or anyone in need. Bobby’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched throughout his extraordinary life.

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