COASTAL OBSERVER

Patsy Schooler, 93, optometrist worked in family business

March 23, 2023

Patsy V. Schooler of Georgetown died March 17 at Palmettos Memory Care of Garden City. She was 93.

She was born Feb. 24, 1930, in Tampa, Fla, the first of three daughters of James Alexander Vaughn and Annie Ruth Gregory Vaughn. She graduated from Hillsborough High School, attended the University of Alabama and earned her doctor of optometry degree at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis. It was here she met Charles Bernard Schooler, her husband of 70 years. She worked as a bank teller, a teacher and as the bookkeeper for Charlie’s optometric practice.

Mrs. Schooler was a member of Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church, the Francis Asbury Sunday School class and the Loula Ford circle. Her love for history and learning led her to be a proud member of the Winyah Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, a district representative for the Confederation of South Carolina Local Historical Societies and member of the Georgetown Historical Society. 

She served for many years on the Foster Care Review Board for the Georgetown County Department of Social Services and volunteered in countless local organizations. She had a passion for lifting up those in need, especially children.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Chip Schooler of Highland Falls, N.Y.; her daughters, Ruth Leonard (John) of Kingsport, Tenn., and Jo Kriikku (Eric) of Augusta, Ga.; her grandchildren, Paul Kriikku, Gwynivere Schooler and Giselle Schooler; her sisters, Jo Tharp (Sonny) of Mount Pleasant and Jackie McCants of Tampa; and many nieces and nephews

Her family thanked the caregivers in her home, at Palmettos and from Caris Healthcare.

A memorial service will be held at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. Saturday March 25 by the Revs. Ross Chellis and Dora Gafford. Her family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday at the Georgetown Chapel of Mayer-Ethridge Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church, 901 Highmarket St., Georgetown, SC, 29440.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Ronnie Murrell, 78, outdoorsman loved to cook

March 23, 2023

Ronald Lee Murrell of Pawleys Island died March 16 at his home surrounded by his family. He was 78.

Known as Ronnie, he was born Oct. 16, 1944, in Charleston, a son of Kirt Thomas Murrell and Lona Mae Player Murrell. 

His family  relocated to Pawleys Island when he was 3. He celebrated the rest of his life in Georgetown County as an avid hunter, fisherman and lover of the outdoors. He met many friends and wore many hats at Caledonia and True Blue Golf Club and thoroughly enjoyed serving the community. He enjoyed cooking for others.

Mr. Murrell was a founding member of the Black Powder Club. He spent many hours coaching baseball and football as well as advocating for his church. He started the men’s club raising money for Christ the King Church where he was a member for many years. He was also a member of Masonic Lodge 409.

Mr. Murrell was a storyteller and had many to share every Thanksgiving with family and friends. 

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sheila Cusick Murrell; his son, Christopher William Murrell (Nancy); his daughter, Daphne Elizabeth Murrell Morris (Kenny); his brothers-in-law, Phillip David Cusick (Peggy) and John Charles Cusick (Barbra); his grandchildren, Ronald William Murrell (Will), Bailey Elizabeth Ellison, Julia K. Murrell (Katie) and Emily Florence Ellison; his great-grandchild, Kinsley E. Murrell; and his nieces and nephews.  

Another daughter, Robin Denise Murrell, died before him as did his sister, Patricia Ann Murdock, and his brother, Thomas K. Murrell.

Funeral services were Sunday at Christ the King Church. Burial was in All Saints Cemetery. 

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com. 

Brian Blouin, 41, diesel mechanic

February 23, 2023

Brian “Blue” Blouin of Pawleys Island died Feb. 18, two years to the day he was diagnosed with ALS. He was 41.

He was born Dec. 25, 1981, in Newington, Ct., the son of Andre and Linda Blouin. Brian’s childhood was filled with explosive adventures, including summers boating, winters skiing, yearly trips to the family farm in Canada and time surrounded by family and friends. He graduated from Avon High School in Avon, Ct. He had a passion and curiosity for the way things worked and went on to study at Universal Technical Institute. He became a talented mechanic and eventually founded and operated Diesel Blue Services in Murrells Inlet.

He was remembered as an adventurous and daring man who loved life, friends – including furry ones – and family. He welcomed the world with open arms. He loved his Harley and the thrill of the open road – though he never rode too far from those he loved. 

In addition to his parents, of Pawleys Island, he is survived by his Irish twin sister, Natalie, of Connecticut and dozens of aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Saturday at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church. His family will greet friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Burroughs Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ALS Association at als.org or to the charity of your choice.

There is a guestbook at burroughsfh.com.

William L. Kinney Jr., 89, journalist and historian

February 23, 2023

William Light Kinney Jr. of Bennettsville and Pawleys Island, a veteran journalist, historian, and civic leader, died Feb. 19 at his antebellum home, Magnolia, under his daughter’s care. He was 89.

The lifelong resident of Bennettsville was editor and publisher emeritus of the Marlboro Herald-Advocate, McColl Messenger and The Marlboro Shopper, and former president of Marlboro Publishing Co. Inc. He was a longtime contributor to the S.C. Press Association, was a past president of that organization and president of the SCPA Foundation. He was a founder of the SCPA Hall of Fame. He also authored several historical books and won state and national journalistic awards. 

He was born Oct. 26, 1933, the only child of William Light Kinney and Annie Laurie Mayer Kinney. He was born in the home of his paternal grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. John Frank Kinney, as was his father. 

He was a 1951 honor graduate of Bennettsville High School and editor of the school newspaper. 

He attended Wofford College, as did his father and grandfather, majoring in biology, chemistry, physics and math and graduating in 1954. He was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Society, Senior Order of Gnomes and Blue Key Honor Society; edited the college handbook and yearbook; served as student body president; was a member of the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps; sang in the Men’s Glee Club; and was a vice president of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He earned his most cherished distinction, an honorary doctorate of humane letters, in 1999.  

Mr. Kinney attended the University of South Carolina College of Journalism from 1954 to 1955. He edited the college’s laboratory newspaper and later graduated with a degree in journalism in 1977. He served in the Army at Fort Jackson from 1954 to 1958. He then joined his parents in the operation of Marlboro Publishing Co. and in 1972 bought the business. 

While traveling cross-country with a good friend, they stopped in Atlanta to visit friends. There he was introduced to his future wife, Margaret René Pegues. After an 18-month courtship, they married on March 21, 1964. 

Since 1979, Mr. Kinney relished hosting family and friends at the family summer cottage in Pawleys Island. It was named “-30-”, the symbol journalists traditionally used to indicate the end of a story. 

He loved to travel and his highlights included a 1960 trip to the Soviet Union, a summer in England with the Experiment in International Living  in 1963 and a United Methodist medical mission trip to Haiti in 1976.

For over 65 years, Mr. Kinney spearheaded and led community, state and national improvement efforts through his newspaper and personal service. 

He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, where he served as lay leader and had numerous administrative roles. He sang bass in its Chancel Choir for 75 years.

He worked to better his hometown and greater Marlboro County. He served as a Bennettsville city councilman and mayor pro-tempore, as well as a leader and board member of the Kinney Foundation, Whipple Marlboro Fund, county Economic Development Board, Lakeside Residential Development, United Fund, Chamber of Commerce and Jaycees. He was instrumental in the formation of the Marlboro Civic Center Foundation and the restoration of the 1917 opera house and was chairman at the time of his death.

He was a member of the Rotary Club since 1958, served two terms as president, maintained 65 years of perfect attendance, and was twice named a Paul Harris Fellow. 

His passion for history and historic preservation began at a young age. He served as president of the Marlborough Historical Society and chairman of the Marlboro County Historic Preservation Commission and Bennettsville Board of Architectural Review/Tree Committee. He chaired the restoration of several historic buildings including an 1831 home once used as the county courthouse, two schoolhouses and his 1853 home and 1902 former office building.

Mr. Kinney was an advocate of preserving South Carolina’s history. He secured 25 state historical markers within his home county and led major improvement efforts as vice chairman of the Bennettsville Downtown Development Association. He helped secure National Register status for two municipal historic districts. He served as county chairman of the S.C. Tricentennial in 1970 and the U.S. Bicentennial in 1976.

He was also active at the state level in numerous capacities including serving as chairman of the S.C. Archives and History Commission for 36 years and was vice chairman at the time of his death. He also remained chairman of the S.C. Review Board for National Register Nominations. He was past president of the S.C. Historical Society, S.C. Confederation of Local Historical Societies, Friends of Brookgreen Gardens and S.C. Methodist Conference Commission on Archives and History. He also served as vice chairman of the South Carolina Hall of Fame.  He was a board member of the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation, S.C. State Development Board, Brookgreen Gardens, McLeod Regional Medical Center Foundation, Pawleys Island Civic Association and University South Caroliniana Society.

For 30 years, Mr. Kinney served as a congressional appointee to the board of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress and was chairman for three terms. He was a member of the National Board of Advisors of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and chairman of its Southern Region Board of Advisors for four years. He also served as a director of the Wofford College National Alumni Association and the U.S. Jaycees.

He received the Order of the Palmetto in 2015 from Gov. Nikki Haley. At the same time, Bennettsville City Council named the two entrances of  the municipal parking lot as Bill Kinney Jr. Way.

Other recognitions include being listed in Who’s Who in America since 1982, the USC College of Journalism’s McKissick Award in 1955, being named to the USC College of Journalism’s Diamond Circle in 1998, the National Newspaper Association’s Amos Award for longstanding community service in 2016, S.C. Jaycees Young Man of the Year in 1961, two S.C. Governor’s Awards for Lifetime Achievement in Historic Preservation, being named a Hometown Hero by the S.C. Downtown Development Association, the S.C. Arts Commission’s Elizabeth O’Neill Verner State Arts Advocacy Award, the General Assembly’s Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award and being named Marlboro County Economic Development Ambassador. In 2022, the Marlboro Chamber of Commerce named its annual Community Leader Award in his honor.

He retired from day-to-day operations of the publishing company in 2014, turning over the business to his daughter and her husband. He remained active in religious, civic, advocacy and volunteer efforts until just recently.  He continued to enjoy serving as an enthusiastic walking tour guide for any visitor to Bennettsville, his office or home.

For the past few months, he struggled valiantly with a diagnosis of Parkinsonism and its related complications, all the while demonstrating his strong faith in Jesus Christ, genteel Southern nature and good humor to family and friends.

He is survived by his daughter, Elisabeth Mayer Kinney McNiel (Daniel) of Bennettsville; three grandchildren, Robert Leland McNiel III (Emma) of Chattanooga, Tenn., Margaret Jane McNiel of Knoxville, Tenn., and William Light Kinney McNiel of Wofford College; his great-grandchildren, Robert Leland McNiel IV and Rose Catherine McNiel; his sister-in-law, Frances Elisabeth Pegues Burroughs of Conway; a nephew, Henry Buck Burroughs III (Julie) of Brandon, Fla.; a niece, Victoria McNeill Burroughs of North Charleston; a great-nephew, Henry Buck Burroughs IV; and numerous cousins. 

His wife died in 2021. His son, William Light Kinney III, died in 1989. 

A celebration of his life was held Wednesday at First United Methodist Church. Burial was at Sunset Memorial Park. 

Memorials may be made to the William Light Kinney III ’91 Endowed Scholarship Fund at Wofford College, Office of Advancement, 429 North Church St., Spartanburg, SC 29303.

Condolences may be sent at bfhbennettsville.com.

Pudgy Forrester, 98, extolled vitures of fun

February 16, 2023

Flora Anne “Pudgy” Hughes Forrester of Pawleys Island lived a long and joyful life in the belief that one must dance, exercise and have fun every single day. She died Feb. 8 at the age of 98.

She was born Feb. 2, 1925, in Florence, the daughter of John James and Elizabeth Gregg Clemmons. A graduate of Limestone College, she worked for a time as a flight attendant for Delta Airlines.

 She was a member of the Assembly, the Debutante Club, the Junior League of Greenville, the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America and All Saints Church, where she served on the Altar Guild for 35 years. In addition, she was an avid bridge player, golfer and tennis player.

She loved her God, her life and her family. She was remembered for her dynamic personality, her love of fun, and the “peach fluffs” she made each Fourth of July.

She is survived by three children from her marriage to George Jackson Hughes:  Laura Hughes Graves, George Jackson Hughes Jr. (Velda) and Rita Hughes Waloszczyk (Michael); and two stepchildren she shared with Harrison Smith Forrester: Harrison Smith Forrester Jr. (Stacy) and Jamie Self Forrester; nine grandchildren, Patricia McCrae (Alasdair), Jackson Hughes III (Tara), Harrison Hughes, Anne Carter Hughes MacNabb (Mike), Wyn Kittredge IV (Kari), Jim Lee (Alyson), Chase Forrester, Harrison Forrester III and Shep Forrester; and nine great-grandchildren: Anne Miller MacNabb, London Hughes, Carter MacNabb, Jack Hughes IV, Wyn Kittredge V, Addie Lauren Kittredge, Carter Kittredge, Anders Kittredge, and Wade Lee.

Another stepdaughter, Marsha Forrester, died before her.

Graveside services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at Springwood Cemetery in Greenville. A reception will follow at Avenue, 110 E. Court Street, Suite 600, Greenville.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at the DeBordieu Clubhouse.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to All Saints Church, 3560 Kings River Rd., Pawleys Island, S.C. 29585.

Her family thanked Monica Walker, Juanita Walker-Cooper, Keisha “Nikki” Walker and Lucinda Davis for their loving care of Mrs. Forrester over the last year.

Noreene Sneed, 78, former Pawleys Plantation resident

February 9, 2023

Noreene Flynn Sneed of Virginia Beach, Va., a former Pawleys Plantation resident, died Jan. 15. She was  78.  

She was born Sept. 11, 1944, in New York, the daughter of Anne Macedo Flynn and Arthur Flynn. After attending Notre Dame School of Manhattan and Cushing Academy, Noreene joined her father’s public relations firm.  Her work including representing the New York fire and police departments, White Castle and clients at the New York World’s Fair.  

After her marriage to William Sneed, she worked as a paralegal and later in real estate offices as a private property manager. They moved to Flanders, N.J., to a house built in the 1700s.  Mrs. Sneed spent hours doing restoration and planting and caring for her gardens.  She became president of the township historical society, using her love of antiques and history to add several area homes, and even trees, to historic registries. She was a representative on the Governors’ Bicentennial Celebration. 

After the couple moved to Pawleys Island, Mrs. Sneed studied local history, flora and fauna, and built a Charleston-style garden for their home. Her knowledge of the Lowcountry led to a job at the Chamber of Commerce.

Mrs. Sneed later moved to Texas to be closer to family, and moved with them to Virginia Beach, where she enjoyed being back on the coast, looking out over the water and watching the boats and the birds.

She is survived by her daughter, Suzanne Long (William); her stepdaughter, Kathleen Lukens (Mark); and her grandchildren.

Her husband died before her.

Memorials may be made to Father Pat’s Kitchen at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church (pbocchurch.com).

Nancy Watts, 64, teacher had a knack for decorating

February 9, 2023

Nancy Newkirk Watts of Pawleys Island died Jan. 26 at her home. She was 64.

She was born March 4, 1958, in Highland, Ill., the daughter of Josephine Swift and Charles Newkirk. Nancy had a passion for helping those in need that led her to become a skilled and dedicated teacher for many years. 

In her free time, she enjoyed entertaining and creating memories with friends and family.  She had an eye for beauty, a knack for decorating and enjoyed time spent in her garden.

In addition to her mother, of Pawleys Island, she is survived by her companion, Ken Watts; two daughters, Ashley Van Loon (Dean Copeland) of Grasonville, Md., and Emily Watts of Blacksburg, Va; her son, Chris Van Loon (Laura) of Maryland; her grandson, Cole Copeland of Grasonville; her brothers, Charles Newkirk Jr. (Jody) of Broken Arrow, Okla., Phillip Newkirk (Allison) of Wilmington, N.C. and John Newkirk of Pawleys Island; her sister, Sally Monaghan of Mount Pleasant; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of her life was held Sunday at Burroughs Funeral Home. 

A graveside service will be held privately.

Memorials may be made to the Montessori School of Pawleys Island, P.O. Box 3059 Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Shirley W. Dickert, 87, citizen of the year in W.Va.

February 9, 2023

Shirley Waites Dickert of Pawleys Plantation died Feb. 1 at her home surrounded by her family. She was 87.

She was born in Columbia, the daughter of Guy and Frances Waites. She graduated from Dreher High School in 1953, attended the University of South Carolina, and married Bacil Dickert on Oct. 20, 1954. They lived for 35 years in South Charleston, W.Va., where Mrs. Dickert was an active member of the Woman’s’ Club.  She loved playing bridge, bowling, and knitting, donating countless quilts, baby blankets, slippers and toboggans to friends and the South Charleston Heart and Hand charity.

Mrs. Dickert was named the 1991-92 Citizen of the Year by the South Charleston Lions Club.  She was also active in the South Charleston Western Little League and coached girls softball.  She impressed the kids, parents, and coaches when she hit a center field home run during the Little League Mothers game.

After retiring to Pawleys Island, she continued her knitting, quilting and bridge groups, and enjoyed escapades with her YaYa sisters. She was nicknamed the “Professor of Good Times” by one of her daughter’s classmates.  She loved taking pictures and was the photographer at many events at the Pawleys Plantation clubhouse.

Although kept housebound by COVID, she never lost her quick wit and sense of humor.

In addition to her husband of 68 years, she is survived by her children, Deborah (Raymond), Bacil Jr. and Laura Ann (Jim); six grandchildren, Chris (Kobi), Lindsay (Lee) Sarah (Jameson), Jennifer, Brittany and Tom; four great-grandchildren, Lucas, Layne, Brooks and Lyla; and a brother, Julius Durham Waites.

Another brother, Robert Waites, died before her.

A celebration of her life will be held April 8 at Pawleys Plantation Clubhouse.

Memorials may be made to Agape Hospice, 2320 Highway 378, Conway, SC 29527.

There is a guest book at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

Margaret F.Q. Moran, 84, nurse was Lander Univ. first lady

January 26, 2023

Margaret Frances Queen Moran died Dec. 30 at the Lakes of Litchfield. She was 84.

She was born June 14, 1938, at her parents’ home in Ramage, W.Va., the the eldest child of William Elbert Queen and Ernie Faye Stollings Queen. She graduated in 1956 from Gauley Bridge (W.Va.) High School. In June 1959, Margaret graduated from St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Huntington, W.Va. While attending St. Mary’s, she met William Charles Moran, who was an undergraduate at Marshall University. They fell deeply in love and married on Aug. 24, 1959. In their early married life, Margaret and Bill moved quite often in an effort to advance Bill’s career in academia while simultaneously raising their two sons. 

Margaret was a radiology nurse and a surgical nurse in Baltimore and an OB/GYN nurse in Huntington and Knoxville, Tenn. She later became the director of McClenaghan Place Retirement Center in Florence in the 1980s. Of all her professional roles, she most enjoyed her term as the first lady to the president of Lander University in Greenwood from 1992 to 2000. While at Lander, Margaret served on the board of several civic organizations that served the town of Greenwood and Lander. She also lived in the United Arab Emirates for several years while Mr. Moran worked with the ruling family to establish the UAE higher education accreditation system. 

But more than anything else, Margaret was an extraordinary caregiver, especially to Bill and Kevin, to whom she administered love and care all of their lives, but especially when they needed it most. 

She enjoyed gardening, cooking, playing bridge and spending time with her family. She loved babies, especially her grandchildren, whom she would visit at least once a month even when she lived in the Middle East.

She is survived by her son, Tom Moran (Liz) of Murrells Inlet, who cared for Margaret when her health began to fail; her grandchildren, Wesley Tyler Moran (Beth Ann) of Pawleys Island, Michael Paxton Moran of Greenville and Sarah Elizabeth Moran of Atlanta; her great-grandchildren Henry Hutchinson “Hutch” Moran and Elizabeth Gray “Birdie” Moran, both of Pawleys Island; her siblings: Peggy Queen Andrews, J.D. (Bernie) of Naples, Fla., Brenda Queen Thorn (Bill) of Brandywine, W.Va., and Dr. William Frederick Queen (Pat) of Martinsburg, W.Va.; her nieces and nephews, Jaye Christopher Andrews (Andrea), Anne Andrews Hill (Steve), Jeffrey David Rhodes (Victoria), Timothy Allen Rhodes, Wesley Queen (Sarah), Dr. Whitney Queen Spry (Mike), James Moran, Andrew Laird Robinson, Neal Moran Robinson, and 17 grand-nieces and nephews.

Her husband died in 2009. Her other son, Kevin Patrick Moran, died in 2010.

A funeral mass will be held Jan. 28 at 11 a.m. at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church, with a burial service thereafter. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the William C. and Margaret F. Moran Scholarship in care of the Lander University Foundation in Greenwood or to the William C. Moran and Margaret F. Moran Scholarship in care of the Francis Marion University Foundation in Florence.

There is a guestbook at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

John Henry Whitmire, 71, jeweler whose work celebrated local icons

January 26, 2023

When a restaurant closed at the Hammock Shops, several years ago, John Henry Whitmire thought about what had gone wrong. “I think they missed the idea that Pawleys Island is a very casual place; that we like our fun and we don’t like to get dressed up to have it,” he said.

A jeweler who spent most of his 51 years in business at Pawleys Island, John Henry embodied the stylish and the casual in pieces that combined artistry with coastal themes.

He died Jan. 18 at his home on the river at Hagley. He was 71.

John Henry, as he was known to everyone, was an adventurous, gregarious and charming unofficial world ambassador for the community where he lived and worked.

He was born Dec. 28, 1951, in Greenville, the son of Woodrow and Arla Mae Piephoff Whitmire. He grew up in Easley, and attended and played football at Easley High School before entering the University of South Carolina and majoring in English. 

At USC, John Henry took a class in jewelry making. After leaving Columbia, he worked for a jewelry shop inside the Gay Dolphin gift shop in Myrtle Beach.

He was asked to open a new location in North Myrtle Beach, where he was joined by his childhood friend, John White.

“At the end of the season, the shop got robbed,” White said. “We lost a bunch of cash and lost most of the jewelry inventory. It really set us back. It was a hungry fall and winter.”

In a demonstration of his resourcefulness, John Henry took his craft on the road, doing enough jewelry shows to get through the winter.

“What I saw from that was his resilience and generosity during those times,” White said. “Even though we had very little stuff, if we met someone who had less, he would take them in. He made sure they had something to eat on the way out.” 

He then opened his own business, October Silver, at Pawleys Island in a former chapel at the corner of Highway 17 and Waverly Road. He later moved to the Hammock Shops and renamed the business Whitmire Fine Jewelry.

“I felt like John Henry was a mentor for me in so many ways,” White says. “Nice and naughty and adventurous. He repeatedly taught me how to live life to the fullest, recover from the hard knocks and love people unconditionally. He was a true character in the Southern sense. He was a living legend.”

If charisma was a form of legal tender, John Henry was loaded. He rarely entered a building on Pawleys Island where he wasn’t approached by old friends. He never left without trying to make a new one.

A world traveler, who’d made his way through Europe, Australia, Asia, South America and many places in between, he had a talent for spinning tales.

Louis Osteen, the renowned chef,  once joked  that John Henry believed “it’s more important to have a good story, than for it to be absolutely, totally true.”

When Osteen and Warren Johnston started the Pawleys Island Crawfish Festival, John Henry became its first director. It grew to become a state-sponsored event to promote aquaculture.

John Henry saw life as a series of adventures; stories to be told, to be shared and told all over again. The more dramatic, the better, even if he needed to use a bit of poetic license honed during his years as a creative writing student at USC.

There was the tale about him riding in a carriage at Buckingham Palace, where he had friends, past the startled queen’s window. Or, the time he and a traveling companion were mistaken for terrorists in Ireland. He talked of being at Woodstock.

The late journalist and author Christopher Dickey recalled John Henry offering to teach him to play the harmonica. Dickey was skeptical. He discovered a YouTube video of a riff by John Henry with 30,000 hits.

Through his travel both in this country and abroad, he made thousands of true friends. A lifelong bachelor, he showed extraordinary dedication to his brothers, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. He enmeshed himself in the Pawleys Island community, adding to its lore and allure. He skied some of the world’s premier slopes and sailed in the ocean. 

He had a long-time interest in politics, worked on several campaigns and once ran for Congress.

His generosity was legendary. He would complain of being broke, but then buy dinner for an entire table. He always was ready to repair someone’s treasured necklace, or throw an impromptu meal for dozens of friends or relatives. John Henry paid faithful attention over many decades to his oldest brother, Woodrow Wilson “Whit” Whitmire, who lived in a group home for most of his adult life.

He is survived by his brother Ralph Clayton “Clay” Whitmire (Lynn) of Indianapolis; his nephews, Andrew Whitmire (Leah) and Matthew Whitmire (Daphne); his great-nieces, Kate and Kendall Whitmire, and great-nephew, Will Whitmire; and four godchildren, many cousins, children of cousins and grandchildren of cousins. 

In addition to his parents, his step-mother, Elizabeth Jones “Lib” Whitmire, and his brother Whit died before him. 

A memorial service will be held Feb. 1 at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross-Faith Memorial Episcopal Church, followed by a celebration of his life at Frank’s Restaurant. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice or or to the next person who crosses your path.

Philip W. Comfort, 72, scholar led New Testament translation

January 19, 2023

Philip Wesley Comfort of Hagley Estates, a Bible scholar, author and surfer, died Dec. 31. He was 72.

He was born Oct. 28, 1950, in Sewickly, Pa., the son of Richard and Dorothy Comfort. He grew up in Ohio and attended Kent State University. He earned a doctorate in literary interpretation from the University of South Africa.

Mr. Comfort worked for Tyndale House Publishers in Chicago as senior editor for 33 years. He was coordinating editor/translator of the New Testament of the New Living Translation of the Bible. The project took seven years, he recalled in a 1999 interview. It was his job to review the work of other scholars and come up with a translation on which they could agree.

“The Bible didn’t come with a handbook on how to interpret it,” he said. “The basic message of the Bible that Jesus was the son of God and died for our sins, all the basics. Millions of Bible readers agree on these certain things. But on other issues, there are thousands of interpretations.”

He was married for 50 years to Georgia Comfort, a pianist and music teacher. They raised their family in Chicago before moving to Pawleys Island in 1997.

Mr. Comfort authored more than 15 academic books and six books of poetry. One of his books was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.

He took up surfing at age 47. That led to his first novel, “Rescued Retriever,” inspired by the dog he and his wife found abandoned along Highway 17 in Francis Marion National Forest.

“Everyone knew Charlie,” Mr. Comfort said after the novel was published in 2005. “He would follow me into the ocean and watch me surf, and then he would get on the board himself and ride in.” 

The couple saw God move many times in their lives. In 1989, Mrs. Comfort was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. She was given a year to live. 

“I’m a walking miracle,” she said in an interview 25 years later. She wrote about her faith in God and her battle with cancer in a book, “Dying to Live.”

Mr. Comfort continued to work for Tyndale from home after moving to Pawleys Island, traveling to Chicago for meetings. Known in New Testament circles as a Bible scholar’s scholar, he also taught English, the New Testament and Greek at several colleges including Trinity Seminary and Wheaton College and Coastal Carolina University. He taught a bible class at Pawleys Island Community Church for 20 years. 

“I love teaching. I love the interaction,” he said. “I even love the arguments.”

His writing and teaching made an untold impact on the Christian community world-wide.

In addition to surfing, he was an avid soccer fan and coached the JV boys team at Waccamaw High for many years.

While he had an amazing intellect, it was his heart that set him apart. He would spend each morning on the beach in worship of God’s creation and talking to Jesus.

He is survived by his sons Jeremy Comfort, John Comfort (Angela) and Peter Comfort; his grandsons, Sage Cross, Jonah Comfort, Reid Comfort and Drake Comfort; his brothers, Richard Comfort Jr. (Carolyn) and Gregory Comfort (Maureen); his mother-in-law, Joan Algeo Riser; a sister-in-law, Sally Nachamkin; his brothers-in-law Bob Riser and Ted Riser; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Georgia Comfort died in December 2021. Along with his parents, his father-in-law, George Riser, and another sister-in-law, Robin Comfort, died before him.

A memorial service will be held Jan. 30 at 11 a.m. at Pawleys Island Community Church.

Condolences and memorials can be sent to the church, P.O. Box 777, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

Bob Ackerman, 82, musician who transcended genres

January 5, 2023

Robert Jacob George “Big Daddy” Ackerman, a  musician, composer and music educator, died Dec. 27 at his home surrounded by his family. He was 82.

He was born March 16, 1940, in Irvington, N.J., the son of Jacob and Gertrude Ackerman. Incubated in the Golden Age of Jazz, Bob began playing music at the age of 5. In fifth grade, he chose the alto saxophone as his instrument of study, later adding piano, clarinet and flute to his repertoire. He attended concerts by some of the greatest jazz musicians of the time, as well as classical and Broadway performances. 

He entered Montclair State College at 17 and joined the musicians union, playing with orchestras, combos and big bands in the Catskill Mountains and around New York and New Jersey. He received his master’s degree at Columbia University while working as a full-time musician. 

Mr. Ackerman began teaching music and became the high school band director in Highland Park, N.J. Improvising and composing became a passion during these years. He also worked at the Paper Mill Theater and played at jazz clubs at night.

In the mid-1970s, he met and married vocalist Pam Purvis and they embarked on a musical journey that took them around the world performing as a duo and with other noted musicians. Landing in Dallas in 1978, he was in the National Endowment Program of the Arts as a composer and artist-in-residence at the Dallas Arts Magnet High School.

Mr. Ackerman and his wife became well known in the area, playing in a jazz quintet, which led to European performances, all the while continuing to compose and write charts.

In the 1980s, Mr. Ackerman began to buy and sell vintage saxophones, growing his Progressive Winds into an international business. He developed expertise in mouthpiece refacing and was known as the “Mouthpiece Doctor.” 

It was during this time that he realized the value of vintage saxophones and became a pioneer in vintage horn restoration. His relentless pursuit of excellence earned him the moniker “King of Saxophones” and he relocated to the New York area. A larger than life character, his legendary antics and top notch collection of musical instruments drew people from around the world to his home in Irvington.

Mr. Ackerman’s love of young musicians and his kind and giving spirit led him to mentor many students. He would match their style of playing with a custom horn and mouthpiece. He leaves a multitude of recordings in genres from classical to jazz and avant-garde, including his own classical and jazz compositions. 

In the notes to a CD of his symphonic works that he conducted,  Tristan Willems – a musician, composer and publisher who was with the family at his side – called Mr. Ackerman “a rarity among musicians in our day and age: more than a performer who composes or a composer who performs, he transcends musical genres and styles.”

Mr. Ackerman retired to Pawleys Island in 2017, playing local gigs and concerts. He would rather play music than eat when he was hungry and rarely went a day in life without playing. He lived a life of music and left a legacy of passion and excellence.

In addition to his wife of 47 years, he is survived by his daughter, Tanya Ackerman; his granddaughter, Lauren Ropp; his brother, Russell Ackerman (Fran); and his  niece, Jennifer Kahl.

His sister, Lois Kahl, died before him.

Condolences may be sent at ridgewayfh.com.

Marilyn E. Riehl, 80, former Pawleys resident

January 5, 2023

Marilyn Elizabeth Riehl of Worthington, Ohio, a former Pawleys Island area resident, died Dec. 15. She was 80.

She was born on April 9, 1942, in Cleveland, the daughter of William A. Riehl and Talitha H. Riehl. She graduated from Hoover High School in North Canton, Ohio, and earned a master’s degree from the University of Akron in historic clothing and textiles. 

She was a member of the Church of the Master, Westerville, Ohio, where she sang in the choir. 

Mrs. Riehl was remembered as an advocate for caring for people and animals who could not care for themselves. She also took great pride and satisfaction in teaching others to quilt, bake and sing.

She is survived by her children, Carolyn Eberly of New Albany, Ohio, Scott Lemmon of Canton, Ohio,  and Stephen Lemmon of North Canton; her grandchildren, Casey Harmon (Drew) of Sunbury, Ohio, and Lauren Eberly of Westerville; her sister, Carol Coate (Barrie) of Fairfield, Calif.,; her  brother, John Riehl (Beverly) of Strongsville, Ohio; two nieces and three nephews. 

Another brother, William L. Riehl, died before her.

A celebration of her life was held Dec. 21 at Schoedinger Worthington Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Kenney Family Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association.

James R. Lewis, 87, retired from Cincinnati schools

January 5, 2023

James Roger Lewis of Heritage Plantation died Dec. 21 at his home. He was 87.

He was born  Feb. 10, 1935, in Covington, Ky., the son of Joseph and Buena Daniels Lewis.

He served in the Army and went on to graduate from Eastern Kentucky University with a degree in teaching. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati and retired from the Cincinnati Public School System. 

In his free time, Mr. Lewis enjoyed the finer things in life and relished time spent with family and making memories with friends.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marilyn; his sons, John Lewis of Erlanger, Ky., and Matt Lewis of Burlington, Ky.; his daughter, Karen Luick (Albrecht) of Esslingen, Germany; and  his brother, Albert Lewis (Bunni) of Miami. 

Another brother, Ike Lewis, died before him.

A celebration of his life will be held privately.

Memorials be made to the American Legion of Pawleys Island.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Connie Britton, 85, columnist was active in community service

January 5, 2023

Mary Cornelia Beck Britton of Sumter and Pawleys Island died at her home Dec. 21. She was 85.

Known as Connie, she was born Jan. 31, 1937, in Sumter, the daughter of Kenneth Emmitt Beck and Rosalie Neyle Beck. Her aunt, Mary Ella Neyle, also had a role in raising her. Connie graduated from Edmunds High School, where she was a cheerleader, played the piano for the chorus and was chosen for the May Court. 

She met John James “J.J.” Britton and they began a seven-year courtship which led to 64 years of marriage. 

While completing a two-year business program at Limestone College, Connie was often visiting J.J. down the road at Clemson, where she was selected as a TAPS Beauty and was the Central Dance Association Sweetheart. 

During her later years at Clemson, she cherished friendships with many wives of the trustees.

The couple married in Sumter on June 13, 1958, and started their family in Charleston, where Mrs. Britton’s support of Dr. Britton’s medical training began. They returned to Shaw Air Force Base in 1967 after living in Miami, Fayetteville, N.C., and Portsmouth, Va.

Her heart overflowed with the love of Jesus, and she encouraged her children to “keep love in your heart.” 

At the Church of the Holy Comforter, she taught Sunday School, hosted Alpha gatherings and served on the wedding guild and vestry. She sprinkled God’s goodness wherever she went, including her beloved Pawleys Island. She was known as “Goose” to her grandchildren because because she gathered and nurtured them like the fabled Mother Goose.

Mrs. Britton had a penchant for writing and penned the Panorama column in the Sumter Item as well as the newsletter for the Tuomey Hospital Canteen. She and her friend, Sister Wimberly, were co-creators of the May Day Celebration at Wilson Hall School. 

She was also an avid bridge and tennis player and often entertained in her home. 

Mrs. Britton enjoyed community service, that included the Sumter Junior Welfare League (president), Sumter Medical Auxiliary, Shepherd’s Center, Stateburg Literary Society, Friends of Swan Lake Iris Gardens (a founder) and Friends of Brookgreen Gardens. She was the first female elected to the board at Black River Electric Cooperative and served for 30 years.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her brother, George Austin Beck (Connie); her children, Beth Britton Stuckey, Babs Britton Wilson (Tim), Becky Britton Funderburk (Bevan) and Dr. John James Britton Jr. (Helen); her grandchildren, Mary Frances Stuckey, James Stuckey, Britton Troxler (Finch), Charles Noyes, Neyle Noyes, Myers Noyes, Becka Noyes, Betsy Noyes, Jack Britton, Heyward Britton; and her great-grandchildren, Grayson Noyes and Annie Troxler.

Another brother, Kenneth Emmitt Beck, died before her.

A celebration of her life was held Dec. 27 at the Church of the Holy Comforter. A graveside service was held Dec. 28 at Woodland Cemetery at Clemson University.

Memorials may be made to Church of the Holy Comforter.

Condolences may be sent at sumterfunerals.com.

Doc Baldwin, 82, businessman who championed high school

January 5, 2023

Maurice Dargan Baldwin II of Hagley Estates, a Pawleys Island business owner for nearly 50 years, died Dec. 23 with his sons by his side. He was 82. 

Known as Doc, he was born Aug. 23, 1940, in Whiteville, N.C., the son of Maurice Baldwin and Elizabeth Dargan Martin. He grew up there and in Spartanburg. He served in the Air Force, which is where he received his nickname. There were three Baldwins in his unit during basic training. Since he was  listed as “Baldwin, M.D.,” he became Doc.

He attended the University of South Carolina, the University of Maryland, Horry-Georgetown Technical College and South Carolina State University. He held a teaching certificate with  master’s degree equivalency.  

He was married for 50 years to the late Bess Baker Baldwin. The couple moved to Pawleys Island from Jacksonville, Fla., in 1974 and started the 3-Way Exxon on Highway 17 at the South Causeway. It was a service station, liquor store and, in the beginning, a restaurant that became a small bar.

Mr. Baldwin then worked in sales before becoming an auto mechanics teacher at the Georgetown Career Center at the Howard School.

In 1985, the couple opened a video rental shop that soon became a Radio Shack franchise under the name Electronics Etc. It had the area’s first fax machine and was its first cellphone dealer.

The business evolved as electronics became disposable. In 2001, they got a contract from the U.S. Postal Service to open a service center in the store during a time when the local post office was struggling with turnover and growing complaints from customers. It started as a six-month contract and has continued to operate ever since. The business later expanded into office supplies.

Mr. Baldwin also had an interest in politics. He ran for Georgetown County Council in 1979 and 1994, both times as a Republican. In between, he served on the executive committee of the county Democratic Party, which he said was the only way to get things done.

He was also one of the early advocates for building Waccamaw High School. The campaign to convince the school board to fund the school, which opened in 1990, was one he remembered with pride, his family said.

Mr. Baldwin was a member of the Pawleys Island Moose Lodge,  Elks Lodge and the local VFW. He was frequent organizer of benefits for community causes, and was remembered as someone who was always willing to help people in need.

He is survived by his sons, Maurice Dargan Baldwin III and Oliver Gore Baldwin, both of Pawleys Island; and his grandchildren, Elizabeth Baldwin and Maurice Dargan Baldwin IV.

Condolences may be sent at grahamfuneralhome.org.

Robert A. Moses, 101, helped build family’s island home

December 1, 2022

Robert Altamont Moses of Sumter, a long-time Pawleys Island property owner, died Nov. 26 at his home.  He was 101.

He was born in Sumter, a son of Henry Phillips Moses and Charlotte Virginia Emmanuel Moses. He was a member of the Class of 1942 at The Citadel. Upon graduation, he joined the Army as a second lieutenant in the infantry. He subsequently served in the Army Air Corps as a pilot, and completed 20 years of military service as a reservist. He then retired from the Air Force Reserves as a major.

Mr. Moses was a member of Temple Sinai and was a former Realtor and real estate appraiser with Henry P. Moses Company. He was a past president or chair of the S.C. Association of Realtors, the Sumter Rotary Club, the Fortnightly Club, the Sumter County Historical Society and Sumter County Master Gardeners, among others. He was also a scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America. 

In addition to community service, he had many interests, including birdwatching, baking, fishing, gardening, hiking and traveling  with friends and family. He spoke fondly of his childhood trips to Saluda, N.C., and helping build his family’s beach house at Pawleys Island in 1939.

Mr. Moses was remembered as a man of honesty, integrity, curiosity, humor and kindness who loved his family and the natural world. He taught by example and was a friend and mentor to many.

He is survived by his wife, Clara Gayness Moses; his daughters, Natalie Moses (Douglas Klaucke) and children, Benjamin, Julien and Robert Pougnier; Carol Moses (David Vasconcelos) and children, Alice Moses, Aldo Pena-Moses; Katherine Moses Royer (Brad) and children, Brendan and Aaron; and Laura Moses; nine great-grandchildren; his brother, Herbert A. Moses; numerous nieces and nephews; and his wife’s family, Frances Gowen (Brent), Sarah Sanford (Bryan) and their children.

His first wife, Harriett Pace Moses, died before him as did his daughter, Elizabeth Moses; a sister, Octavia Moses Mahon and two brothers, Richard Phillips Moses and Vivian Moses.

Memorial services were held Tuesday at Temple Sinai. Private burial will be in the Sumter Jewish Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Temple Sinai General Fund, 13 Church St., Sumter, SC 29150;  the Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery, AL 36104; the Sumter County Museum, P. O. Box 1456, Sumter, SC 29151; or the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be sent at sumterfunerals.com.

Joyce Martenies, 72, senior secretary at Waccamaw Elementary

December 1, 2022

Joyce Ann Martenies of Pawleys Island, a fixture in the front office at Waccamaw Elementary School, died Nov. 21 at her home. She was 72.

She was born April 4, 1950, in Kokomo, Ind., a daughter of William Ashenfelter and Doris Self Ashenfelter.  Ms. Martenies worked for the Georgetown County School District for 32 years. She spent most of her career at Waccamaw Elementary, where she served as senior secretary and bookkeeper. 

She was remembered for her excellent work ethic, knowing every rule in the book and following those rules “to a T.” She was known for her efficiency, attention to detail and dedication. 

In the later years of her career, she began allowing students to affectionately refer to her as Ms. Joyce instead of Ms. Martenies. She loved nothing more than watching the students learn and grow and took great pride in remembering them when they crossed her path as young adults. Ms. Joyce will forever be known for her allegiance to her job and the district as a whole.  

She is survived by two children, Kelly Craig (Phil) and Frank Martenies (Chandra); three grandchildren, Reed Craig, Olivia Craig and Claire Martenies; two sisters, Sally Rutledge and Kim Ashenfelter; a brother, Gary Ashenfelter (Connie); and her stepmother, Rebecca Ashenfelter.  

In addition to her parents, another sister, Cheryl Schmidt, died before her.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Waccamaw Elementary School PTO, 1364 Waverly Rd., Pawleys Island, SC 29585 or to Friends of the Waccamaw Library, 41 St. Paul Place, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

Condolences may be send at ridgewayfh.com.

Tommy Huguenin, 80, builder was avid outdoorsman

December 1, 2022

Thomas Barksdale Huguenin  of Litchfield Beach died Nov. 23 at home with his family by his side. He was 80.

He was born Feb. 4, 1942, in Greenville, the son of Thomas Francis Huguenin and Sallie Brown Clark. Tommy graduated from high school at Darlington School in Rome, Ga., and from The Citadel in the class of 1964. He married Martha Dove in 1986. 

Over the years, Mr. Huguenin was a banker, Realtor and, most recently, owner of Huguenin Home Builders. He was a member of Christ the King Grace Church, where he served as both a junior and senior warden. 

He was happiest at his farm, hunt club and watching birds on his back porch with Martha. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish his whole life. 

He was remembered for his memorable smile and contagious laugh that made so many people feel good.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Sallie Houston (Gary) of Davis, Calif., Tommy Huguenin Jr. of Murrells Inlet, Millie Staggs (Leighton) of Atlanta, Aaron Dark of Rock Hill and Donna Huguenin of Murrells Inlet; his brother, T. Frank Huguenin Jr. (Libba) of Greenville; 11 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A memorial service was held Tuesday at Christ the King Grace Waccamaw.

Memorials may be made to the Class of 1964 Scholarship Fund in care of The Citadel Foundation, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston, SC, 29409.

There is a guest book at

Tommy Huguenin, 80,

builder was avid outdoorsman

.

Jack Brakebill, 86, led church missions to Cuba

December 1, 2022

Carl Jackson Brakebill III of Knoxville, Tenn., died Nov. 21 in Pawleys Island surrounded by his family. He was 86.

Known as Jack, he was born Oct. 29, 1936, in Knoxville, the son of Carl Jackson Brakebill Jr. and Laura Keener Brakebill. He was a graduate of The McCallie School and the University of Tennessee. 

Mr. Brakebill, who had a second home on Pawleys Island, retired in 1992 from a career with IBM. Far more important to him was his more than 20 years of service working as a missionary, establishing churches in Cuba.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Stephenson Brakebill; his children, Laura Brakebill Olson (Jim) of Winston-Salem, N.C., Carl Jackson “Jock” Brakebill IV (Bee) of Raleigh, N.C., and Yvonne “E” Brakebill Marlowe (Anderson) of Raleigh; his stepdaughter, Robin Langdon White of Siler City, N.C.; six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church, Cuban Missions, 9967 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC, 29585.

Cynthia C. Nance, 81, Murrells Inlet restaurant owner

November 23, 2022

Cynthia Chaplin Nance of Murrells Inlet died Nov. 17, 2022. She was 81.

She was born Jan. 4, 1941, in Charleston, the daughter of Roland James Chaplin Jr. and Christine Turbeville Chaplin. She graduated in 1959 from Socastee High School, where she was crowned Miss Socastee. 

Mrs. Nance was the original owner of Nances Creek Front Restaurant until 1991. She was also the owner of Cedar Hill Landing Restaurant with her son, Chris. 

She was a life-long resident of the Murrells Inlet area and was instrumental in the preservation of the creek, where many locals fed their families and made a living.

Mrs. Nance was a member of St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church. She was previously a long-time member of Murrells Inlet Presbyterian Church, where she was an elder, Sunday School teacher and a member of the Presbyterian Women.

She was remembered as strong and dignified, kind and loving. She loved her God and her family and friends.

She is survived by her daughters, Paula Nance of Murrells Inlet and Tina N. Biddix (Charles) of Pawleys Island; her brother, Roland J. Chaplin, Ill (Mary) of Murrells Inlet; her grandchildren, Joshua Cody Wilson, Justin Jay Wilson, Jacob Forrest Wilson, Christen Marie MacKorell (John), Cynthia Ann Mitchell (Matt), Patrick Dylan Bateman; her great-grandchildren, Dargan Marie MacKorell, John Oliver MacKorell, Bennett Ann MacKorell and Amelia Marie Mitchell.

Her son, Christopher P. Nance, died before her.

A celebration of her life will be held Nov. 27 at 2 p.m. at St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church. Burial will be at 4:30 p.m. at Belin United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com. 

Memorials may be made to the S.C. Commission for the Blind or the St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church Mission Fund.

Lynette Hinds, 88, pianist at First Baptist

November 17, 2022

Lynette Balliew Hinds of Georgetown died Nov. 11 at the Lakes at Litchfield. She was 88.

She was born Jan. 17, 1934, in Alta Vista, Va., a daughter of Doyle Wofford Balliew and Mable Pope Balliew. 

She was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church of Georgetown, where she was the pianist for many years and a member of the Ruth Sunday School Class.  She loved decorating and working in her garden, but her greatest love was for her husband, children and grandchildren.

She was married to Douglas Lanford Hinds.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Scott Hinds (Frankie) of  Johnston; two daughters, Allyson Cruise of Georgetown and Tootie Willhelm (Rob) of Fairhope, Ala.; her grandchildren, Lanford Wrenn, Blair Willhelm, Stephen Wrenn, Wofford Willhelm (Tabatha) and Savannah Hinds; and her great-grandchildren, Colin, Kayla, Cantley and Kennedy.

In addition to her parents, a sister, Martha Ann Lowe, her in-laws, Lillian and Jody Hinds, and a son-in-law, David Cruise, died before her.

Funeral services were held Monday at First Baptist Church by the Rev. Dr. Ted Sherrill and the Rev. Keith Wall.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Katherine Bull, 90, worked in social services

November 17, 2022

Katherine Lucas Bull of Georgetown died Nov. 10 at her home. She was 90.

She was born Sept. 2, 1932, in Georgetown, a daughter of Thomas Cordes Lucas and Alice Vaughan Lucas. She grew up in Georgetown and on Wicklow Hall Plantation. She spent her summers in McClellanville. 

Katherine graduated from Winthrop College in 1955. She worked in social services and for the Colleton County School District. 

She was married to the late Joseph Laurie Bull III, a retired Navy commander.

Mrs. Bull was a member of Prince George Winyah Church and served on the linen, silver and brass guilds. 

She was an honorary member of the Georgetown Garden Club, past member of the DAR, National Society of the Colonial Dames of America and the St. Anne’s Chapter of Prince George Winyah Church. She enjoyed gardening, growing herbs, and flowers. She was a passionate sponsor of St. Jude’s Hospital.

In addition to her husband and parents, two daughters, Katherine Breland and Alice Metzendorf,  died before her, as did a grandson, Benjamin Lucas Boensch, and two sisters, Alice Hutson and Mary Easley.

She is survived by two sons, Arthur Cranwell Boensch (Claudia) and Benjamin Hord Boensch (Cecile); a daughter, Frances Boensch Murdaugh; two step-daughters, Emily Bull Williams (John) and Conyers Bull; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. today at Prince George Winyah Church. Burial will be in the churchyard. The family will receive friends in the parish hall following the graveside service.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Helen Divney, 79, nursing was her calling

November 17, 2022

Helen Divney of Pawleys Island died Nov. 7 at the Lakes at Litchfield with her family by her side.  She was 79.

She was born July 5, 1943, in Passaic, N.J., the daughter of  John and Helen Fuchs Weisz. She grew up in Clifton, N.J., and graduated from Pope Pius XII High School in 1961. At school, she met her lifelong friends: Jo Mary Pescatore, Arlene Givonne, Carol O’Connor, Ellen Mitro, Judy Byrne, Janet Nichols and Diane Cioce. She would often tell stories about her friends, which her grandchildren could recite almost word for word.

Helen graduated from St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Passaic as a registered nurse in 1964. She met another lifelong friend in nursing school, Barbara Ippolitti.  After graduation, she worked at St. Mary’s Hospital in the ICU/CCU floor. Nursing was her calling. She described her days working as busy, always being different and always there to help.

She was married to the late Peter Divney. They did more together in almost 10 years of marriage than people do in a lifetime, which included traveling to Italy, Ireland, England and Hawaii among other places.

Mrs. Divney loved spending time playing cards with her friends at the Tradition clubhouse, eating out with family and friends and cooking for her family. 

She is survived by her daughter, Barbra Ackershoek (William) of Pawleys Island; her grandchildren, Amy Nicole Ackershoek, Emily Ann Ackershoek and William John Ackershoek; her schnoodle dog, Bailey; her sister, Joyce Faherty (Peter); her stepsons, John Divney, Damian (Michal), Robert Divney (Mary) and their daughter Grace Divney; her brothers-in-law, Michael Divney (Jean), Larry Divney (Alicia), John Divney (Rosie) and Frank Walits; as well as a large extended family.

In addition to her parents, her sister Mary Ann Walits died before her.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 p.m. Nov. 19 at The Abbey in Pawleys Island. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston (RMHC Charleston) or All 4 Paws Animal Rescue.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Raymond Keller, 32, J.O.Y University member

November 3, 2022

Raymond Thomas Keller of Pawleys Island died unexpectedly at his home on Oct. 30. It was his 32nd birthday.

He was born in Myrtle Beach, the son of Pamela Kitchen of Pawleys Island and Thomas Keller of Garden City. Raymond was a much loved graduate of J.O.Y School and member of J.O.Y University of Pawleys Island.  He was also a member of Active Day of Georgetown and Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church.

Raymond loved life and everyone that he came across, his family said.  There wasn’t a person who could resist his infectious smile and attitude.  From his school mates, church members, various restaurants, bank, and store associates to all of his family, Raymond was loved by all in return. He befriended so many he could have won most political office runs.

He really was the “Everybody Loves Raymond!”  Many of these people understood and played, “tag your it,” as he and they would try to be the last one to tap the other on the shoulder, especially the ladies.

Raymond knew all of the important landmarks in the area, often yelling out and pointing at Huntington Beach, his schools, his favorite restaurants, the recycling center, as well as the UPS trucks, ambulances, and the sheriff’s vehicles, all the while singing to popular 1980s rock and roll songs.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his grandmother, Christine Kitchen of Pawleys Island, who was influential in his life; his uncle, Philip Kitchen (Ruth) of Pawleys Island; his aunt, Patti Rumbley (William) of Farmington Hills, Mich.; his uncle, Paul Kitchen (Natalia) of Buford, Ga., and numerous cousins.

A Mass of the Christian Burial and service of remembrance will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church. There will be a live stream at pbocchurch.com.

Memorials may be made to the J.O.Y. University, 9967 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

William B. Hawver, 90, volunteer at state park

November 3, 2022

William B. Hawver of Murrells Inlet died Aug. 11 at National Health Care. He was 90.

He was born in Philadelphia, the adopted son of Sidney Hawver and Irene Hawver and the birth son Earl Becker and Catherine Becker. He lived in Wheaton, Ill.

Mr. Hawver enjoyed playing tennis, outdoor team shooting range competition, politics and building outdoor fire pits.  He served as a councilman for Broome County, N.Y., and was a volunteer with Friends of Huntington Beach State Park. 

He is survived by his wife, Janet Conklin Hawver of Pawleys Island; his daughters, Lucinda Rayome of Greer and Denise Moyse (George) of Mundelen, Ill.; his sons, David Hawver (Frances) of Aiken, Kevin Hawver (Liz) of Fort Mill and Bruce Hawver (Michelle) of Hawthorn Woods, Ill.; his brother, John Hawver (Marsha) of Islamorada, Fla.; 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Two other brothers, Earl Becker Jr. and Jack Becker, died before him.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at Burroughs Funeral Home in Murrells Inlet.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or Caris HealthCare, South Carolina, 174 Waccamaw Medical Park Ct, Conway, SC 29526.

Frances Tausche, 94, immunology researcher

November 3, 2022

Frances Nadine Gamble Tausche, 94, of West Hartford, Conn., a retired medical researcher and a part-time resident on Pawleys Island, died Oct. 9. She was 94.

She was born Oct. 1, 1928, in Kingstree, the daughter of Beulah and Hugh Gamble. She graduated from Kingstree High School in 1946 and majored in chemistry at Winthrop University, graduating in 1949. She earned a master’s degree in zoology at Indiana University in 1951. While at Indiana, she spent two summers at the Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, conducting biomedical research, which built what became her life-long career of work with laboratory animals to study and find solutions for human disease. After Indiana, she worked as a biologist at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, where she investigated the effects of radiation and certain means for radiation to help in human health care. 

She met her future husband, Paul Everett Tausche, in the Oak Ridge Chorus and they married in November 1953. Paul worked at the Oak Ridge Y-12 National Security Complex overseeing the production of fission nuclear fuel and in the development of the fusion reaction processes which was central to the thermonuclear H-bomb technology. 

The couple moved to Trumbull, Conn., in 1957 and to West Hartford in 1959, following Mr. Tausche’s long career with General Electric.  They lived in the same house for over 60 years. Mr. Tausche died in 2020. Mrs. Tausche moved to Atlanta in March. 

Mrs. Tausche worked for 25 years as a research assistant in the Department of Pathology at the UCONN Health Center in Farmington, Conn., where she continued supporting immunology research, coauthoring research papers and mentoring an extensive group of graduate students.

After retiring from full-time work in 1991, Mr. and Mrs. Tausche spent many months each year at Pawleys Island and continued to travel extensively, often taking appreciative family members along on vacation tours. Frances voraciously filled her life with her love of family, friends, singing, piano, music, reading, bird watching, gardening and volunteering in her community.  

She  is survived by her children, Paula Babiss (Lee) and James Tausche (Jane); her grandchildren, Lindsay Babiss Bornheimer (Will), Emily Babiss (Seán O’Mahony) and Hannah Babiss, Charlotte and Andrea Tausche; and her great-grandchildren, Emma, Taylor and Harper Bornheimer.  

A memorial service will be held at a later date in West Hartford. Condolences may be sent to at dignitymemorial.com.

Mary Taylor, 85, loved music and the outdoors

October 27, 2022

Mary Francis Taylor of Murrells Inlet died Oct. 17 at Waccamaw Community Hospital.  She was 85.

She was born Dec. 25, 1936, in Mecklenburg County, N.C., the daughter of  Carl Helms and Jonny Harkey Helms. 

A former resident of Fort Mill, she loved working in her yard, being out in the sunshine, country music, going out to the pier and listening to karaoke. She also enjoyed being out on her brother’s boat. 

She is survived by her daughter, Anita Reddish, of Murrells Inlet; her son Curtis Taylor (Joyce) of Statesville, N.C.; her sister, Peggy Branton of Myrtle Beach; her grandsons, Glenn Reddish of Winston-Salem, N.C., Christopher Reddish of Surfside Beach, Mitchell Taylor of Statesville, Michael Taylor (Chrissy) of Statesville and Robert Taylor of Kingsville, Texas; her granddaughters, Kimberly Lynch (Nicholas) of Sherrills Ford, N.C., Amanda Taylor of Statesville and Monica Taylor of Fort Worth, Texas.

Two sisters, Betty Eller and Kathleen Phillips, and five brothers, Tim Helms, Billy Helms, Donald Helms, Charles Helms and James Helms, died before her. 

A graveside service will be held at Unity Cemetery in Fort Mill at a date to be announced.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

Deede Ferri, 73, speech therapist for Horry County schools

October 27, 2022

Deann Spector Ferri of Pawleys Island died Oct. 17. She was 73.

Known as Deede, she was born March 18, 1949, in Washington, D.C., the daughter of Victor and Martha Conklin Spector. 

She grew up in Falls Church, Va., and earned a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College in New York and a master’s degree from Bloomsburg State College in Pennsylvania.

Mrs. Ferri worked as a speech therapist in Duchess County, N.Y., before she and her husband moved to Pawleys Island. She then worked for the Horry County School District for over 25 years. She loved the children that she helped.

She was remembered as a joyful and artistic person who liked nothing more than spending time and laughing with those close to her. In addition to enjoying her talent for drawing, she was an avid reader, a life-long learner and a lover of nature and travel.

She is survived by her husband, Kenneth Ferri; her son, Emmett Ferri (Abigail); her grandchildren, Henry and Louisa Ferri; her brother, Bernard Spector; and many other family members and friends.

Her son Bret Hansen Ferri died before her.

A gathering in her honor will be held Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. at Mojo’s Marina Bar and Grill in Murrells Inlet.

Jerry Latta, 78, former IBM executive was Brookgreen volunteer

October 27, 2022

Jerry Lee Latta of Pawleys Plantation died Oct. 1 at Georgetown Memorial Hospital after battling a number of serious illnesses for over seven years. He was 78.

He was loving, patient, and always hopeful to the end. His many caregivers looked forward to being with him, as he always had a kind word and never lost his incredible sense of humor.

He was born July 19, 1944, in Guthrie, Okla., the son of Iris and Helen Latta. He lived in Raton, N.M., until he moved to Oklahoma City during his sophomore year. He enrolled at Classen High School and met his future wife, Susan, in a 10th-grade algebra class. 

Upon graduation, he received the Anton H. Classen Medal of Honor, the school’s highest award. Jerry attended the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated from the University of Oklahoma, where he majored in engineering physics. He went on to earn his MBA at Oklahoma City University.

Mr. Latta  worked for IBM for 34 years, retiring in 2001. He started in sales in Oklahoma City, but became a good example of IBM’s early acronym of “I’ve Been Moved” after taking on a marketing manager position in the Los Angeles area, and then a branch manager position in Chicago, before finally settling in Wilton, Conn., where he lived with his family for 25 years. 

He held many various executive positions with IBM in New York and Connecticut, and also spent seven years in Tokyo.

Mr. Latta enjoyed traveling the world, playing golf, watching University of Oklahoma football and Boston Red Sox games, and spending quality time with his extended family at their cottage on Lake Rescue in Ludlow, Vt., where he was an active member of the Lake Rescue Association. 

In South Carolina, he  spent over 10 years as a volunteer at Brookgreen Gardens. He enjoyed being a “meeter/greeter” at the restaurant and spending many hours at the “Nights of a Thousand Candles.”

In addition to his wife of 56 years, he is survived by his sons, Blinn Latta (Allison) of Pelham, N.Y., and Blake Latta (Penny) of Glen Ellyn, Ill.; his daughter, Laura Clinton (Ryan) of Naperville, Ill.; his grandchildren, Nathan, Megan, Caroline and Henry Latta, Sean, Conor, Jack, and Colleen Clinton, and Elizabeth and William Latta; his sister, Sue Caldarelli, of Pass Christian, Miss., and his brother, Tim Latta, of Vista, Calif., who came to live with Jerry and Susan at the age of 9 after their parents died. Tim’s children, Chimay Allis and Ryan Latta, considered Jerry as a grandfather.

Another brother, Ron Latta, died before him.

Memorials may be made to the Lake Rescue Association, or for continuing research for Parkinson’s disease or Type 1 diabetes.

Pep Dargan, 84, stock broker was talented golfer

October 27, 2022

Perrin Quarles Dargan Jr. of Mount Pleasant, a former stock broker and long-time resident of North Litchfield, died Oct. 20, after a long and courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was 84.

Known as Pep, he was born on July 27, 1938, in Spartanburg, the first son of Perrin Quarles Dargan  and Mary Hart Greene Dargan. His mother died when he was 2 and his grandmother helped raise Pep and his brother, Bob. His father later married Mary Louise Hodge of Chattanooga, Tenn..

Growing up in Spartanburg, Pep earned his Eagle Scout rank. He had passions for reading and sports. He was a serviceable basketball player, principally a shooting guard with an unstoppable ambidextrous hook shot, but his true gift was golf. He and Bob traveled around the Carolinas competing successfully in youth golf tournaments and otherwise preying on unsuspecting older golfers. 

His golf career would lead him to many of the world’s great courses, including the Old Course at St. Andrews, Gleneagles, Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Cypress Point and Wade Hampton, to name a few. Following back surgery in his early 70s, he would shoot his age and under many times, frequently on his challenging home course, The Reserve. He notched two holes-in-one, separated by an epic 50-year drought.

After graduating from Spartanburg High School, Pep attened Davidson College, where he became a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. He transferred to Wofford and joined the golf team. The move added fuel to his budding romance with his Converse College sweetheart, Helen Butler Freeman. 

They graduated college in the spring of 1960 and married on June 18.

Mr. Dargan had a successful career as a stock broker, principally with the firm of A.G. Edwards, which allowed him to provide a wonderful life for his family. 

He was a perfect gentleman with impeccable manners. It didn’t take much to make him happy. He was as pleased with a cheeseburger as any fine meal. He loved to say, “Hard to beat a good burger!” 

He was both parts of fun-loving: funny and loving. He had a delightful sense of humor and an infectious laugh. He was kind, generous and deeply caring. He listened to others and responded thoughtfully, offering sage, considered advice, but only when asked. He was, as one of his grandchildren noted, “an amazing listener.” 

He was Pops to his 10 grandchildren and his four step-grandchildren. They  adored him and glowed in his presence. No matter their many and varied paths, he reveled in their journeys, never directing and always applauding. He responded to their good news and accomplishments with one of his favorite words: “Wonderful!” They eagerly anticipated the moment when Pops’ Goodie Box would appear, overflowing with sweet treats.

Mr. Dargan was also a recovering alcoholic who, at his death, had remained unflinchingly abstinent for nearly 50 years, during which time he counseled many people who were struggling to emerge from darkness. He was selfless in his commitment to always being available to those in need. 

He was a committed Christian, who was baptized and raised Presbyterian, but after marrying Butler was given the choice of becoming an Episcopalian or becoming an Episcopalian. So he did. He served his Lord and his congregations in his Episcopal and Anglican parishes on the vestry, as senior warden and long-time treasurer. His faith defined and gave structure and meaning to every moment of every day of his life.

Mrs. Dargan died in  2007. The next year, he married the former Louisa Freeman, Butler’s first cousin and lifelong friend. They fell in love while grieving Butler’s death

Pep and Louisa lived 14 years together in a loving home surrounded by their combined five children and 14 grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother, John Bachman Hodge Dargan; his children, Helen Dargan Jones (Robby), Perrin Quarles Dargan III (Lisa)  and Louise Dargan Hughes (Allen); his step-sons Charles Freeman Macloskie (Danae) and John Freeman Macloskie; his grandchildren, Mary Helen, Robert and Perrin Jones and Amelia Jones Spiers (Will), Sanders and Annie Dargan, and Chaplin, James, Josh and Dargan Hughes; and his step-grandchildren, Emma, Mary Hope, Amelia and Frampton Macloskie.

His brothers, Robert Lide Dargan II and Richard Lawton Dargan, died before him. 

A funeral service was held Monday at The Abbey. Memorials may be made to The Abbey or Friendship Place.

There is a guestbook at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Fred Owens, 74, served with Marines in Vietnam

October 20, 2022

Fred Owens of Murrells Inlet died Sept. 30. He was 74.

He was born April 2, 1948, in Camden, the son of Bessie Louise Owens and Clarence Oswald Owens. They moved to Columbia where his parents owned and operated Owens’ Grocerette.  He graduated from Lower Richland High School in 1966 and attended Wingate College before joining the Marines.

He waived his right as a sole surviving son that would have exempted him from serving in a combat zone in Vietnam. He joined Golf Battery, Third Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, Third Marine Division at Khe Sanh Combat Base near the DMZ. He remained close friends with the Marines he called his band of brothers, who carried the scars of that war the remainder of their lives. Three of them met recently.  

Mr. Owens worked for the Westinghouse Nuclear Fuel Division.

He was married for 50 years to the late Anne Hollingsworth Owens.  They lived in Hopkins until they purchased and floated a house across Lake Murray, then raised and remodeled it as their family home in Leesville. They always enjoyed the beach, camping at Ocean Lakes campground for many years before purchasing their second home in Murrells Inlet after Hurricane Hugo. They enjoyed traveling the U.S. and cruising the Caribbean in their retirement. 

Mr. Owens moved to Murrells Inlet permanently after his wife died in 2020. He lived on Lee Avenue, surrounded by friends who visited often, enjoying his wit, intelligence and humor while sharing stories with a cold beer in his man-cave garage or by the pool. Fred loved life at the beach and all it had to offer: fishing, shrimping and crabbing as well as hunting. He was also an excellent shagger in the shagging capital of the world.

A celebration of his life will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Barking Dog on Pendergrass Avenue.  Participants are invited to wear the bright colors he loved and their smiles, share their stories and tall fishing tales. Have a Mich Ultra on him and celebrate the spirit of a good man.

Arline P. Cribb, 98, owned Pawleys Supplies for 28 years

October 20, 2022

Arline Porter Cribb of Pawleys Island died Oct. 7 at the Lakes at Litchfield. She was 98.

She was  born April 11, 1924, in Georgetown, a daughter of William Alpheus Porter and Blanche Mercer Porter. She was married to the late Ernest Cribb Jr.

In 1972, Mrs. Cribb moved back to her home state, planting her roots in Pawleys Island, where she would stay for 50 years. Well known in the community, she owned and ran Pawleys Island Supplies alongside three of her children for over 28 years, serving residents and visitors alike. She was  known to all as “Granny.”

Outside of the store, Mrs. Cribb could be found rocking on the front porch of her Pawleys Island beach house, surrounded by friends and family – her favorite thing to do. Gracious and kind, with a quick sense of humor, she was loved by all.

She is survived by three daughters, Dale Gibson (Douglas), Cathey Furr (Dan) and Martha Brooks (Phil); one son, Ernest Cribb (Doreen); 10 grandchildren, Deedie Cowart (Jason), Douglas Gibson II, Danielle Allen (Lester), Tony Cribb (Susan), Carrie Parker (Todd), Danny Furr (Carina), Nicole Harmon (Gerald), Amanda Gallup (Bruce), Philip Brooks and Emily Brooks; 20 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, a son, William Carroll Cribb; three sisters, Juanita Gordon, Katherine Johnson and Vera Johnson; and a brother, David Porter, died before her.

A service was held Oct. 12 by Mayer-Etheridge Funeral home. 

Memorials may be made to St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church, 180 St. Paul Pl., Pawleys Island, SC 29585, or Oak Grove United Methodist Church, 1676 Kent Rd., Georgetown, SC 29440.

Dr. Curtiss Mull, 83, trained surgeons

October 13, 2022

Dr. Sears Curtiss Mull of DeBordieu, a retired orthopedic surgeon, died Sept. 13 surrounded by his immediate family. He was 82.

Known as Curtiss, he was born Feb. 28, 1940, in Akron, Ohio, and competitively played golf, football and basketball. 

In his youth, he caddied at Firestone Country Club where he learned to play golf. He went on to play competitively at Bucknell University after he sustained a shoulder injury on the football field. This injury inspired him to change his major to pre-med, attend the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he met his wife, Angela, and ultimately pursue a career as an orthopedic surgeon.

After graduating from medical school, Dr. Mull joined the Air Force as a physician. Shortly after completing his tour at Tuy Hoa, Vietnam, he started his orthopedic residency in Syracuse, N.Y., and then settled down in Roanoke, Va. 

He spent 28 years as an orthopedic surgeon, focusing on total joint replacements at Lewis Gale Clinic before retiring in Georgetown in 2001. 

In his retirement years, he frequently traveled the U.S. as a “rent-a-doc” working in clinics and hospitals allowing young doctors to take vacations and spend holidays with their families. He also traveled to Ireland and the United Kingdom to teach and train other physicians on the latest techniques in total knee replacement surgery for Depuy and J&J. 

Dr. Mull was an avid golfer, skier, world traveler, talented gardener and choir singer. He sang in the church choir as a child and loved it so much he continued with choirs into his retirement years. 

In addition to his wife of 55 years, he is survived by his children, Curtiss, Stephen, Eric, Jonathan and Mary-Angela; his grandchildren, Susanna Jane, Tia Marie, Kate, Deric, Elizabeth, Nora and Sloane;  and his siblings, Michael and Susanna.

A celebration of his life was held Sunday at the DeBordieu Club. 

Memorials may be made to the Smith Medical Clinic (smithfreeclinic.org) or First Tee – Coastal Carolinas (firstteecoastalcarolinas.org). Dr. Mull was an avid volunteer at both organizations.

Joy L.Y. Tiller, 82, co-owner of two Hammock Shops businesses

October 13, 2022

Joy Louise Yochem Tiller of Pawleys Island died Oct. 6 at Waccamaw Community Hospital with her husband by her side. She was 82.

She was born June 1, 1940, in Galion, Ohio, the oldest of three daughters of Robert and Elizabeth Yochem. Joy graduated from Galion High School and Ohio University, where she studied early childhood education. She spent a few years as a first-grade teacher before starting her own family. Although her teaching career was short-lived, she never lost her appreciation for children and how life is seen through a child’s eyes.

She was married to Charles Tiller. She was tickled with his sense of humor from their high school days, and the spark never dimmed in their 58 years of marriage. They raised three sons. Their family made numerous moves across several states before settling in Pawleys Island in 1983. 

Mr. and Mrs. Tiller worked together for over 20 years as co-owners of Christmas at Pawleys and The General Store in the Hammock Shops and several other retail shops along the Grand Strand. Her strengths were in the artistic and creative sides of the business as well as forming deep relationships with their customers.

Mrs. Tiller was a longtime parishioner at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church, where she volunteered her time and talent with their Souper Bowl for Habitat for Humanity.

She loved magical things like Christmas, the coziness of her home and the colors of autumn in New England. She loved traveling with her husband. She could always appreciate a local artist she met in her travels; time spent with her sisters; and a beautiful bloom. She treasured her finds in the antique stores and pottery studios. She cherished the summer vacations with her sisters and their families in Pawleys Island. She could always enjoy a good laugh and was always the first one to laugh at herself.

Mrs. Tiller had a gift for making others feel welcome and could always find a connection with those she had just met. She was quick to host occasions at her home.

Family meant everything to her. She was BaBa to her nine grandchildren, and each knew she was their loudest cheerleader and strongest defender. Ordinary days at BaBa’s house felt like holidays to her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sons, Bob Tiller of Pawleys Island, Andy Tiller (Mary) of Monkton, Md., and Brian Tiller (Carla) of Apex, N.C.; nine grandchildren, Ryan Tiller, Hampton Tiller, Jackson Tiller, Bryant Tiller, Bess Tiller, Mac Tiller, Emily Tiller, Colin Tiller and Jonathan Tiller; two sisters, Ann Yochem Monnett (Buck) and Mary Yochem Houk (Keith); and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church. Interment will follow at the church columbarium. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Goldfinch Funeral Home’s Litchfield – Pawleys Chapel.

Dr. Thomas W. Kelly Jr., 83, dentist taught at UNC

October 7, 2022

Dr. Thomas W. Kelly Jr. of Murrells Inlet, a dentist who helped train others during his career, died Oct. 2. He was 83.

He was born Nov. 16, 1938, in Spartanburg, the son of Thomas and Anne Kimbrell Kelly. Following graduation from Spartanburg High School, he earned summa cum laude degrees from Wofford College (BS), where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and from the Medical College of Virginia (DDS). 

Dr. Kelly’s dental career began with five years of private practice in Spartanburg. In 1970, he joined the Veterans’ Administration as a staff dentist, serving in Salisbury, N.C., and Leavenworth, Kan., where he obtained his master’s degree and specialty degree in prosthodontics from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. 

In 1974, he was chosen as chief of dentistry for the VA Medical Center in Fayetteville, N.C., where he also served as chief of staff. During his years in Fayetteville, Dr. Kelly also held a faculty position with the UNC Dental School. He helped train over 500 dental students and nearly 100 dentists seeking postgraduate training and degrees. 

Retiring after 29 years of service to the VA Medical Center and UNC, Dr. Kelly returned to his home state to join Dr. Jason Meares in private practice at the Carolina Dental Center in Murrells Inlet. From 1999 to 2017, he served on the faculty of the dental department of Horry-Georgetown Technical College, helping train approximately 540 dental assistants and hygienists. In 2013, he received the Patron Emeritus Award for outstanding support of the college.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, the former Gay Maddox; his daughters, Kimbrell K. Tucker (Butch) and Beth K. Meares (Jason); his grandsons, Austin T. Meares (Katherine), Bennett A. Meares and Jonathan “Mo” Meares; his great-grandson, Jason M. Meares; and his sister-in-law, Janet M. Luiz.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Students in the Word, P.O. Box 163, Pawleys Island, SC 29585 or to St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church, 180 St. Paul Place, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Hope J. Nettles, 65, made career in banking

September 23, 2022

Hope Jennings Nettles of Pawleys Plantation died Sept. 12 with her husband by her side. She was 65.

The daughter of Marilyn and George Jennings, she graduated from Andrew Lewis High School in Salem, Va. She attended the football game that was the basis for the movie “Remember the Titans,” was based Andrew Lewis vs. E.C. Glass High. 

She then followed in the footsteps of her mother and sister to attend college at Brenau Women’s College in Gainesville, Ga. While claiming it was a family tradition, in reality her attraction to Brenau was its closeness to the men at Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia.  

At Brenau, she excelled academically and socially, being named to H.G.H Senior Honor Society and Who’s Who of American Colleges. Mrs. Nettles  was also a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, where she met many of her lifelong friends and had the time of her life.

In 1979, after graduating Brenau with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management, she moved to Atlanta to begin a career in banking.  

She spent the next 37 years with various banks and increasing levels of responsibility until her retirement in 2019, when the family moved to Pawleys so her husband could be closer to his family in Florence.

She is survived by her husband of 26 years, Leonard Nettles; her daughter, Sarah Nettles of Pawleys Island; her stepmother, Preppy Jennings, and her stepbrother, Todd Breneman, both of Greenville, N.C.

In addition to her parents, her sister, Joy Jennings, died before her.

A funeral service was held Monday at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church. She will be interred in the family plot at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem.  

There is a guest book at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

LeRoy MacSorley, 84, deputy probation director

September 23, 2022

LeRoy MacSorley of the Tradition Club died Sept. 3 at home with his family. He was 84.

Known as Roy, he was the former deputy director of the Suffolk County Probation Department in New York. He was a past president of the Suffolk County Police Association. He was a member of Masonic Lodge 60 in Port Jefferson Station, N.Y. He had also lived in Miller Place, N.Y., and the Bronx, N.Y.

Mr. MacSorley retired to South Carolina to pursue an active retirement that included golf, travel, the beach and entertaining the many friends and family that would visit his most favorite place, his home in Pawleys Island.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Kathy MacSorley; his children, Debra Rosenau (Andrew) of Scituate, Mass., Lee MacSorley (Joe) of Fort Wayne, Ind., Arlene Siver (Jerry) of Sterling, Mass., and Miami, Kristin Arabio (Mike) of Wading River, N.Y., and Susan Wright (Matt) of Islamorada, Fla.; his grandchildren, Ryan, Brianna, Katie, Matthew and Lindsay; his sister, Edith Kolb of Ocala, Fla.; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Two other sisters, Ann and Mildred, died before him.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Condolances may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Al Mead, 91, Army veteran and artist

September 15, 2022

George A. Mead of Pawleys Island died Sept. 11, 2022 at his home. He was 91.

Known as Al, he was born Dec. 7, 1930, in Greensboro, N.C., the son of William Nelson Mead and Elizabeth Jones Mead. He served in the Army. Mr. Mead was an artist who enjoyed painting and photography. He also loved to read and spend time at the beach.

He is survived by his wife, Norma Mead; his son, William Nelson Mead (Elisabeth) of North Carolina; his daughter, Elizabeth Sullivan of Pennsylvania; his stepsons, Lewis S. Hosea (Lynn) of Georgia and Jerry R. Hosea (Janice) of South Carolina; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Ruth A. Cumuze, 95, enjoyed history and carpentry

September 15, 2022

Ruth Ann Cumuze of Pawleys Island died  Sept. 8 at her home surrounded by her family. She was 95.

She was born Oct. 28, 1926, in Ann Arbor, Mich., the daughter of May Rector Smith and Ernest Bethlehem Smith. She was a former resident of Athens, Ga.

Known to her family as “Grandma Mom,” she was remembered for her strength and beauty. She enjoyed painting, beach walks, South Carolina history, political history and carpentry.  Her lifelong desire was for social equality.  

She is survived by her children, Sharon Carlisle, Jacqueline Dill (Glenn), Michael Cumuze (Teresa), Erin Burns (Gary) and Bambi Cumuze (Mike); her grandchildren, Eric Carlisle (Emily), Farrah Beaudry (Tim), Kelli Barentine (Dan), Kristen Feutral (Mike), Satchele Burns, Mick Cumuze (Sarah) and Connor McCarthy; and her great-grandchildren, Kaleigh Feutral, Colton Feutral, Cannon Feutral, James Carlisle, Anna Carlisle, Aiden Barentine, Ethan Beaudry, M.J. Cumuze and C.J. Cumuze.

Her sister, Patricia Struve, and another granddaughter, Cori Linne Burns, died before her.

In addition to her daughter, Sharon, who cared for Mrs. Cumuze for many years, her family thanked Heather Almony and Karen Wigfall of Amedisys Hospice for their care.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. Memorials be made to Miss Ruby’s Kids at missrubysids.net.

Aubrey E. Johnson, 89, worked for International Paper

September 15, 2022

Aubrey Eugene Johnson of Murrells Inlet died Sept. 11 at his home. He was 89.

He was born Jan. 20, 1933, in Patrick, the son of Arthur Whitfield Johnson and Julia Lee Pankey Johnson.

Mr. Johnson  served in the S.C. National Guard and worked for International Paper Co. He was remembered as a devoted father and husband, who enjoyed fishing with his son, and just spending as much time with his family as possible.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Janice Johnson; two daughters, Linda J. Gordon of Charleston and DeAnna J. Wertz of Murrells Inlet; a son, Michael D. Johnson of Charleston; one brother, Bob Johnson of Kayesville, Utah; five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Four other brothers and a sister died before him.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Doug Billings, 80, rose to Holiday Inn board from smallest inn

September 15, 2022

Douglas G. Billings of Murrells Inlet, who spent a career in the hospitality industry, died Sept. 5  following a brief fight with aggressive cancer. He was 80.

He was born March 9, 1942, in Creston, Iowa, the son of Nancy Wilhelm Petersohn and Glen Billings. He grew up in Red Oak, Iowa, and earned a degree in political science from Parsons College in Fairfield, Iowa, where he also served as president of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and of the student body.  He married the former  Annette Sellergren on June 21, 1969, in Stanton, Iowa. He served in the Army National Guard from the early 1960s to the mid-1970s.

Mr. Billings worked in the hospitality industry for nearly 40 years. His career began as general manager of the Holiday Inn in Red Oak, which was the smallest property in the international Holiday Inn system, from 1972 to 1986. In 1984, he was elected to the International Board of Holiday Inns, which afforded international travel experiences and lifelong friendships. In 1986, he moved his family to suburban Philadelphia to work for the Pickering Group, an upscale hospitality management and development firm. He later created and led the hotel and hospitality products marketing division of the federal Resolution Trust Corp. during the savings and loan crisis. 

Mr. Billings and his wife relocated to Murrells Inlet in 2005. He was an inaugural member of the advisory board for the resort and tourism program at Coastal Carolina University, where the family held football season tickets. In the following years, he worked in luxury residential real estate, most recently with the Lachicotte Co.  – Christie’s International Real Estate.

He was a perpetual student of history, politics and American government, and was a true believer in “the great experiment” of American democracy. He was a voracious reader, devouring every John Grisham novel and myriad books on American history. He was a natural leader, a wonderful orator and mediator, and was well-known for his gift of expression in business, family and church life. 

Mr. Billings was a member of Holy Cross-Faith Memorial Episcopal Church. He served as a trustee of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina and was on the selection committee for the new diocesan bishop.

In addition to his wife of 53 years, he is survived by his daughters, Melissa Billings (Gretchen Schultz) of Philadelphia and Abigail Whittaker (Christopher)  of St. Augustine, Fla.; his grandchildren, Harper and Aubrey Whittaker of St. Augustine; a special family member, David Dozier (Ingrid) of Myrtle Beach; his brother, William H. Billings (Jan) of Manhattan, Kan.; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.

His sister, Jane Horton Leasman, died before him

A memorial celebration of life will be held Sept. 21 at 10:30 am at Holy Cross-Faith Memorial Episcopal Church. Interment will follow in the church columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tidelands Community Hospice, 2591 N. Fraser St., Georgetown, SC 29440 (tidelandshospice.org) or the church, 113 Baskervill Dr., Pawleys Island, SC 29585. 

Bill Wickliffe, 78, left Ford to help run retail business

September 15, 2022

William Wickliffe of Mount Gilead died Sept. 8 at his home while comforted by his family following a long illness. He was 78.

He was born Aug. 2, 1944, in Ballyclare, Northern Ireland, the son of William and Mary Wickliffe. When Bill turned 21, and seeking a new adventure, he moved to Canada. He eventually signed on with Ford Motor Co., where he rose to a position of head union steward at the Toronto installation. In 1980, he met his future wife, Sybil, while he was visiting in Myrtle Beach with friends from Canada on a golf holiday. They were married a year later. Bill soon joined Sybil in her retail business, The Mole Hole. 

Though he had no retail experience, Mr. Wickliffe was a quick learner and was soon running the day-to-day operations. They were a formidable team and had soon grown the business in sales and locations. 

He never really retired and continued to go into his Mole Hole office most every day, but he did take time to play some golf and fish with friends, take cruises and travel internationally with his wife.

He was remembered as a respected businessman and a loyal friend who was devoted to his family. He was a kind, caring, and generous man. 

In addition to his wife of 41 years, he is survived by his stepsons, Wilkie Melton, Kemp Melton and Erik Hanson; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren as well as his extended family in the UK and Ireland.

Another stepson, Mike Melton, died before him.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. today at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church with interment in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church one hour before the service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to U.S. cancer research or Belin Memorial United Methodist Church.

Donald T. Caudell, 86, started telecom company

September 8, 2022

Donald T. Caudell of Murrells Inlet died  Sept. 1 surrounded by his family. He was 86.

He was born Jan. 25, 1936, in Washington, D.C., the son of Mertice and Garland Caudell. He graduated from Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Va. and worked for AT&T in the Washington area for over 32 years. He then started his own company, Caudell Telecom. 

Mr. Caudell continued to work within the federal government until 2010 when he retired and moved to Murrells Inlet

He was a member of Belin Memorial United Methodist Church; Grand Lodge F.A.A.M of the District of Columbia, Potomac Lodge No. 5; Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Prince George Forest No. 139; Scottish Rite of Free Masons S.J. USA; Surfside Moose Lodge; Federal Chapter 38, OES of the District of Columbia; and the Murrells Inlet Elks Lodge.

He loved everyone he met, was always kind, a truly wonderful individual, and a loving husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis I. Caudell; his children, Debra Gambrell (Norman), Donald Caudell Jr. (Patricia), Karen Ann Kincaid, Connie Holbert (Michael) and David Caudell (Tracey); 37 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert, of Riviera Beach, Fla.; and a large extended family.

His brother, Garland Jr., and sister, Gloria Moore, died before him.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Belin United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amedisys Hospice, 402 Singleton Ridge Rd., Suite C., Conway, SC 29576 or to Belin Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 528, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

There is a guest book at burroughsfh.com.

Dr. John Vernberg, 96, founding director of Baurch Institute

September 8, 2022

 Dr. John Vernberg, the founding director of USC’s Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Science, died Aug. 19. He was  96.

Frank John Vernberg was born Nov. 6, 1925, in Fenton, Mich. He spent most of his youth in Michigan, although he spent significant amounts of time with his grandparents in New York.  Shortly after graduating from high school, Dr. Vernberg joined the Navy during World War II.  It was there in Chicago that he met his wife, Winona.  For the next 63 years, their personal and professional partnership led to distinguished careers in academia and a growing family. 

He  earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees in zoology at DePauw University and his doctorate at Purdue University in 1951.  After 18 productive years at Duke University, Dr. Vernberg  joined the faculty at the University of South Carolina.  For the next 27 years, he dedicated his efforts to establishing the Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences as the premier global research program.  

On the 50th anniversary of the institute, he recalled coming to Hobcaw Barony in 1969 to see the 17,500 acres that had been set aside for research.

“It was amazing to think that a site like this was going to be available for study,” he said.

While he searched for grant funds to build the program, it found quarters in the hangar on the property where Belle Baruch had kept her airplane as well as Hobcaw House.

He recalled that graduate students had also built their own boat in order to collect samples in North Inlet.

“It was his vision, his determination, his skills as a scientist, an administrator and a communicator that put this institute on the world map,” said Dr. Dennis Allen, the long-time director of the Baruch Marine Lab.

In addition to his work at Duke and USC, Dr. Vernberg held leadership positions in many national organizations and on the editorial boards of academic journals. He was president of the American Zoological Society (1980-82), the Estuarine Research Federation (1975-1977), the Ecological Society of America (the Physiological Ecology Division) (1969-1971), The Southeastern Estuarine Research Society (1974) and the Southern Association of Marine Laboratories (1992). In addition, he worked with several federal agencies such as the National Science Foundation, Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Naval Research, and the Office of Technology Assessment.  

He also served as a consultant to the United Nations Environmental Program, the joint US/USSR Research Program on Physiology and Biochemistry of Marine Animals and the National Academy of Science’s International Biological Program.

As a result of his service and his 154 books and article research publications, Dr. Vernberg accumulated many accolades.  He was a Guggenheim Fellow, which allowed him to expand his research to Jamaica in 1957. In 1965, he was awarded a Fulbright-Hays fellowship that funded a year of collaboration with colleagues in Brazil.  His research contributions were acknowledged by awards such as the Russell Award for Research in Science and Engineering, the William S. Proctor Award for Scientific Achievement, and the Waddell Lifetime Achievement Award.  He was also named the S.C. Wildlife Federation Conservationist of the Year in 1983.

His biggest accomplishment, may be the zest for life, intellectual curiosity and love of travel that he instilled in his family.  His extensive travels created a sense that the world is a big place that you have to see to understand, but there is also a common thread of humanity that exceeds geographical boundaries. 

He leaves behind three children, six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren as well as a devoted companion with whom he shared his life for the last seven years.

A memorial service was held Saturday at the Wildewood Downs Retirement Community. 

Memorials may be made to the F. John Vernberg Fellowship in Coastal & Ocean Sciences at donate.sc.edu. In the box titled “Select Fund(s)”, type “Vernberg” and select the “F. John Vernberg Fellowship in Coastal and Marine Sciences.”

David E. Brewer, 92, former Heritage resident

September 8, 2022

David Edward Brewer of Spartanburg, a former Heritage Plantation resident, died Aug. 26. He was 92.

He was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and grew up in Preston, Cuba. He attended Augusta Military Academy in Staunton, Va., and was a graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. 

Mr. Brewer was associated with Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co. in Louisville, Ky., where he and his wife, the late Barbara Jean Roberts Brewer, raised their three children. While in Louisville, he received his CLU and developed his talent for financial planning. After retirement, the Brewers lived in Pawleys Island for 20 years before moving to Spartanburg. 

Mr. Brewer learned to play golf in Cuba and continued to enjoy the game and the camaraderie in both Louisville and Pawleys Island.

He practiced his faith through active membership at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and Christ Church Episcopal Cathedral in Louisville, and All Saints Parish and The Abbey in Pawleys Island. He was most recently a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg. He was active in many men’s Bible studies, Cursillo and the Lions Club. He aslo drove a route for Mobile Meals of Georgetown County. He is survived by his children, Katharine Sherwin (Elton) of Menlo Park, Calif., Betsy Grimes (Frank) of Spartanburg, and Tom Brewer (Lisa) of Siler City, N.C.; his grandchildren, Rob Grimes (Lauren) of Spartanburg, Annie Webb (Frank) of Arlington, Va., Katie Sherwin of Menlo Park, and Elizabeth Sherwin of Oakland, Calif.; and his great-grandchildren, Henry and Paige Webb, and Anna Kate, Caroline and Lillian Grimes.

In addition to his wife of 69 years, another grandson, Patrick Hawley Grimes, died before him.

Memorials may be made to the Cabbage Patch Settlement House (cabbagepatch.org), The Abbey (theabbeypawleysisland.com) or Westminster Presbyterian Church (wpcspartanburg.org).  

 A celebration of life service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Westminster Presbyterian Church. A private burial service will be held in Pawleys Island at a later date.  

Condolences may be sent at jmdunbar.com.

David Stafford, 75, retired Naval officer worked for NASA

August 27, 2022

David Spencer Stafford of Willbrook Plantation died Saturday at home with his wife and four daughters at his side. He was 75.

He was born Jan. 29, 1947, in Norfolk, Va., the youngest of four children of  John Horace Stafford and Alice Bernice Spencer Stafford.  

He married Janet Marie Knotts on April 12, 1969.  They raised their family in Springfield, Va.

At age 8, he started a newspaper route that he continued through his first year in college, showing a dilligence that would continue throughout his life. He earned a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State University and followed his father’s nautical path by enlisting in the Navy. He was deployed on the USS Plymouth Rock and served in Vietnam.  He earned acceptance into Officers Candidate School, received a master’s degree from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., and  worked for NASA at the Pentagon.  

Mr. Stafford retired as lieutenant commander after 20 years of service.

Mr. Stafford trusted Jesus Christ as his lord and savior and during his retirement years he enjoyed attending a weekly mens’ Bible study. 

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jan Stafford; his daughters Sherry Broeker (Chad), Brandy Bouch (Tobey), Jamie Johns (Darrell) and Laura Erskine (Tony); 12 grandchildren; a sister, Barbara June Newnam (Bob); a brother, Jeff Stafford; and many nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, his brother, John “Budgie” Stafford, and his sisters-in-law, Brenda Stafford and Marilyn Stafford, died before him.

A memorial service will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at Burroughs Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors for one hour prior to the service.

Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Parkinson Voice Project at parkinsonvoiceproject.org.

Gary Stalvey, 64, loved time on Winyah Bay

August 24, 2022

Gary Rouse Stalvey of Georgetown died Aug. 24 at his home. He was 64.

He was born Nov. 14, 1957, the son of the late Ernest Clyde Stalvey Jr. and Julia Ann Yaun Stalvey. He grew up in Georgetown and attended Winyah High School. He loved everything related to fishing and cruising the waters of Winyah Bay. 

He is survived by his brothers, Ernest Clyde “Chip” Stalvey III and Rodney J. Stalvey (Lisa) of Georgetown; a sister, Leslie R. (Tony) Boyatt of Blue Ridge, Ga.; and a number of nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at Pennyroyal Memorial Gardens in Georgetown. 

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org.

Adele Brandigon, 79, former Spanish teacher

August 24, 2022

Adele E. Brandigon of the River Club died Aug. 24 with her husband and sister-in-law by her side. She was 79.

She was born in Jersey City, N.J., the daughter of William and Adele Higgins. She taught high school Spanish for 38 years. 

Mrs. Brandigon was an avid golfer and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. She was a lover of all her animals – Sandy, Butler, James and Jeter. She always looked forward to her ladies’ luncheons every month.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Fred W. Brandigon; her cousins, Ann Molnar of New Jersey and Lauren Fiorella of Delaware; her sister-in-law, Carole Cicerale of New Jersey; her brothers-in-law, Tim Toomer (Donna) of New Jersey and Bill Toomer (Lisa) of Murrells Inlet; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Sept. 17 at 11 a.m. at Goldfinch Funeral Home, Litchfield-Pawleys Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. Frances Animal Center (sfanimals.org).

A guest book is available at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

Maryan Caughman-May, 91, business owner was active in church

August 12, 2022

Maryan Roberts Caughman-May of Murrells Inlet died Aug. 12 at her home surrounded by her daughters and her caregiver. She was 91.

She was born Maryan Alice Roberts on March 13, 1931, in Columbia, the daughter of Walter J. Roberts and Edna Morris Roberts. She graduated from Dreher High School and attended nursing school before marrying Milburn G. Caughman Jr. in 1951. In 1956, with their three little girls, they moved to Garden City Beach, where Maryan helped establish and operate Garden City Grocery, the Mermaid Shop and Garden City Gift and Tackle Shop. She and Mr. Caughman ran the Garden City Pier for several years. She  also operated the Garden City Post Office inside her gift shop for several years.

During this time, Mr. Caughman owned and operated sports fishing boats out of Garden City and Murrells Inlet, and made seasonal trips to South Florida and the Bahamas to fish, with Maryan often accompanying him as first mate. A happy memory for the family was boating down the Intracoastal Waterway from Garden City to Fort Pierce, Fla., on the Albacore II.

Maryan was active in Belin Memorial United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir – often as a soloist – and helped launch the Belin Barbecue and Christmas Bazaar. She was the first chairwoman of the administrative board.

In the late 1960s, Maryan began working one day a week in Brookgreen Gardens, where she welcomed visitors from all over the world, sharing information about its history, garden layout, sculpture collection, sculptors and the entire creative process. She often said it was her favorite job.

She excelled at crafts such as ceramics and flower arranging, and later became certified in interior design. She sewed beautifully, from stylish outfits for herself to school clothes, cheerleader uniforms, prom and bridesmaid dresses, even a wedding gown. She also crafted home decor items. Maryan also had quite a green thumb, creating lovely Southern landscapes wherever she lived.

When Mr. Caughman joined Jeff Hunt Machinery Co. as a private boat captain, the couple moved back to Columbia. Maryan began work at The Frame Shop, where she mastered picture framing and became a specialist in stretching, mounting and framing needlework.

In the mid-1970s, the Caughmans bought out one of the Frame Shop locations and opened Frames by Maryan near Irmo. Maryan established business relationships with many well-known artists while building a loyal clientele across the state. She became active and sang in the choir at Ashland Methodist Church, and in her spare time enjoyed gardening and antiquing.

After Mr. Caughman’s death, Maryan continued running the frame shop before finally deciding to retire and move back to the beach.

She built a home in Murrells Inlet and returned to Belin, where she met Ed May. To the delight of her family and his, they married in 2006. Together, they enjoyed church activities, dining out with friends, family get-togethers, gardening, travel and watching Braves baseball, Duke basketball, the Gamecocks, along with golf, tennis and other sports.

Mr. May died in July.

Maryan was remembered as a true beauty inside and out. She loved to laugh and make others laugh, and awoke every morning with a smile on her face and in her heart. She was passionate about God, her church, her family, reading, history, wildlife art and birding.

She is survived by her daughters Sheron Pope (Johnny), Debbie Carter (Paul) and Holley Aufdemorte (Lewis); her step-sons, Eddie May (Dora) and Kevin May; her granddaughters, Jennifer Berzinskas (Billie), Caroline Aufdemorte and Shannon Stinnett (Joey); her grandson, Shane Pope (Holt); her step-grandsons, Cody May (Hanna) and Garrett May; her step-granddaughter, Alex May;  her great-grandchildren, Dakota and Daniel Berzinskas, Madison and Hannah Pope and Grant and Paisley Stinnett; her step-great-grandsons, Riley, Tyler and Conor May; a special cousin, Gale Westfall; her caregivers, Rita Lowery and Ashley Lowery; many other cousins, nephews and nieces; and Annabel, her and Ed’s Westie.

Her brother, Dr. Walter J. Roberts, and her sister, Jacqueline  R. Smith, died before her, as did another great-grandson, Samuel “Stone” Pope.

A celebration of her life will be held at noon on Friday at Burroughs Funeral Home with interment following in Belin Memorial UMC Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to Epworth Children’s Home, P.O. Box 50466, Columbia, SC 29250 (epworthchildrenshome.org) or to Belin Memorial United Methodist Church, 4182 Business 17, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.

Elia S. Meador, 80, a caregiver at heart

August 11, 2022

Elia Silva Meador died Aug. 11 at her daughter’s home in Pawleys Island. She was 80.

Known as Lea, she was born Aug. 15, 1941, in San Isidro, Texas, a daughter of Marcelo Silva and Juliana Pena. Ms. Meador was a member of North Freeway Baptist Church in Houston. She was a caregiver at heart, volunteering at Silverado Assisted Living and taking care of all of her grandchildren until they went to school. Ms. Meador enjoyed going for a walk, gardening and sewing. 

She is survived by four daughters, Judy Lynn Johnson (Robert) of Pawleys Island, Janet Lea Brauer (Marty) of Aurora, Colo., Jennifer Lori Haas (Paul) of Colorado Springs and Jill Leanne Gunn (Troy) of Houston; seven grandchildren, Jordan Bethea (Nick) of Fayetteville, Ark., Peyton Johnson of Nashville, Savannah Haas of Colorado Springs, Hope Brauer of Aurora, Zachary Elder (Catherine) of New Braunfels, Texas, and Sydney Elder of New Braunfels; two great-grandchildren, Kaiya Bethea and Devon Bethea, both of Fayetteville; one brother; Eloy Silva of San Isidro; three sisters, Esiquia Escobar (Omar) of Riviera, Texas, Beatriz Johnson (David) of Pasadena, Texas, and Martha Matlock of Tomball, Texas; eight nieces, Elisa Perez, Andrea Banda, Stacie Ramirez, Brandie Vasquez, Lori Diehl, Julie Bone, Billie Matlock and Bobbie Joe Garcia; four nephews, Omar Noe, Andrew Christopher, Gavin Bone and Joe David Garcia of Santa Elena, Texas; and a sister-in-law, Reta Duncan.

Another brother, David Garcia, and the father of her children, C.J. Meador, died before her.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Sept. 24 at 9 a.m. at San Isidro Catholic Church.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 90611, Washington, DC 20091; Agape Hospice, 3938 Business 17, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576; or San Isidro Catholic Church, 5160 FM 1017, San Isidro, TX 78588.

Condolences may be sent at ridgewayfh.com.

Ann W. MacDonald, 84, enjoyed all things Irish

August 11, 2022

Ann Watson MacDonald of the Tradition Club died Aug. 11 at National Healthcare in Garden City. She was 84.

She was born March 4, 1938, in Cambridge, Mass., the daughter of Thomas and Margaret Watson.  She later lived in Hingham, Mass. A 1959 graduate of Regis College, Ann enjoyed reading, knitting, genealogy and all things Irish. She also enjoyed golf, mahjong and card games, jigsaw puzzles, spending time at the beach, baking cookies for friends and family, traveling with her family, Bible studies and her faith in God.

She is survived by her husband, Allan J. MacDonald; her daughters, Linda M. Piper (Mark) of Sabattus, Maine, Carole A. Berlandi of  Townsend, Mass., and Suzanne M. Linstrom (Steven) of Herndon, Va.; her grandchildren, Allan D. Piper, Daniel S. Piper (Heather), Matthew T. Piper, Crystal B. Barreto (Lemos), Steven Berlandi (Jade), Courtney Berlandi, Scott Berlandi and Katherine W. Linstrom; and four great-grandchildren with one due in November.

Her family thanked the staff at National Healthcare and Caris Hospice for their care.

A memorial mass will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church.

Memorials may be made to the Autism Society at autismsociety.org.

Hazel M. Hildebrand, 91, started nursing career at 50

August 8, 2022

Hazel Marie Hampton Hildebrand of Pawleys Island, a tireless caregiver who started a second career as a nurse at age 50, died Aug. 8. She was 91.

She was born April 8 1931, in Oxford, Ohio, the daughter of Martha Coates and Alda Franklin “Bud” Hampton. The oldest of three sisters, Hazel came up during the Great Depression. She watched her mom work three jobs to take care of the family and would walk her sisters to the mailbox to pick up the child support check, then fewer than $10. 

At 16, Hazel moved to Hartford City, Ind., to live with her Aunt Thelma and Uncle Hank. She graduated from Hartford City High School and met Robert Gene Hildebrand. They were married in 1951. 

The couple had two children, whom they raised where they worked: Hildebrand and Son grocery store and butcher. The family lived next to the store, which served Hartford City residents and the farmers raising corn and soy on the land surrounding the town. 

All four family members worked in the store, and on the weekends, Hazel would drive back to Ohio to visit her mother, with  her own daughter, Lonna , sleeping on the front seat. 

In the early 1980s, Mrs. Hildebrand relocated from Hartford City to Dallas. Her sister Ruth Ann recommended health care, and at age 50, she graduated from nursing school. She worked the next 25 years as a licensed practical nurse in the Dallas-Fort Worth area providing direct care and managing nurses. 

Her inclination for caregiving extended to her family, friends and loved ones. She helped raise her oldest grandson, Joe, for several years, working the night shift and then caring for him during the day while Lonna worked. 

When she moved into an assisted living facility, Mrs. Hildebrand kept a watchful eye over her fellow residents, making sure their needs were addressed by the staff.   

In her personal life, she abided by the three C’s: coffee, cocker spaniels and the Cowboys. Heaven was all three together with the Cowboys winning. She liked her quiet and her Kat Martin, her bread buttered and bacon crisp. 

On Thanksgiving, she made Jello that stared back at you. She always had a collection of Disney VHS tapes for her grandchildren when they got tired of climbing the magnolia tree out front or shaking down the neighbors during scavenger hunts. On Sunday mornings, she would take them for donuts and could be counted on to buy things when the parents said no.

After retiring from nursing, Mrs. Hildebrand lived in Ohio, Florida and finally Pawleys Island, where she helped her daughter and son-in-law run Pawleys Pantry and picked up fried chicken at Hog Heaven with her cocker spaniel Sammy riding shotgun. At 80, she finally got to see the Grand Canyon. It was about what she expected. In candid moments, she would lament there were too many men in the world.

Mrs. Hildrebrand was loved by her family and loyal to her friends. She put in the work at her job and for the people she cared about her entire life without complaint. She was not afraid to speak her mind and held a good grudge if you crossed her or, lord forbid, made a joke about one of her dogs. 

She is survived by her daughter, Lonna Handley (Ron); her son, Bob Hildebrand (Jeanne); her grandchildren, Joe Monfort (Kirstin), Lauren Hildebrand (Joe Damouny) and Beniah Hildebrand (Teresa); her step-grandchildren, Ron Jr. (Jeana) and Rachel; her great-grandchildren, Antoine (Tony) Damouny, Hailey Hildebrand, Robert (Robbie) Damouny, Ella Hildebrand, Miles Monfort and Lyla Hazel Monfort; her step-great-grandchildren, Jake, Dane and Grayson Handley and Rebecca and Nicole Godwin; her sister, Norma Hull; her nieces, Cheryl Hill, Karen Cummins, Debbie Garrett and Beth Lawrence; and her nephew, Danny Jarvis.

Another sister, Ruth Ann Elliott, died before her as did her half-sister, Linda Kaye Bryant; her niece, Tari Elliott; her nephew, Billy Jarvis; her great-grandson, Luke Robert Hildebrand; and her cocker spaniels, Gus, Peaches, Scooter and Sammy.

Services will be held Oct. 1 at 10 a.m. at Rose Hill Funeral Home and Burial Park in Hamilton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay or St. Frances Animal Center in Georgetown.

Dorothy J. MacDonnell, 89, community and church volunteer

August 6, 2022

Dorothy  J. MacDonnell of Willbrook Plantation died Aug. 6. She was 89.

She was born Feb. 14, 1933, in Boston, the daughter of Joseph C. and Mary J. Jordan. 

Dorothy spent her childhood in Jamaica Plain, Mass., where she attended Our Lady of Lourdes Grammar School, St. Thomas Aquinas High and Catherine Gibbs College.

In 1953, she met the love of her life, Thomas A. MacDonnell.  They became engaged on Valentine’s Day 1954 and married Aug. 21. 1954.  After Tom was commissioned in the Army, home became where the Army sent them.  Mrs. MacDonnell was remembered as a loving mother of six, a gracious Army wife, and a friend to many.  She instilled in their children a strong sense of faith, family and community. 

Eventually, the Army took them to the Northern Virginia area where the family put down roots. She served as a docent at Woodlawn Plantation and was a long-time associate at Lord & Taylor. 

They retired to Pawleys Island in 1993. Mrs. MacDonnell continued her volunteering at Brookgreen Gardens, Teach My People, the Georgetown County Visitors Center and Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sister, Barbra Holmen McKenna (David); her son Thomas A. Jr. (Sandy)  and grandchildren Morgan, Caroline and Margaret; her son Sean (Leslie); her daughter Jordan; her son Brian (Claudia) and grandchildren Katie Hanscome (Steve), Brian Jr. (Ashely), Kevin (Bailey) and Molly; her daughter Maura Tapley (John) and grandchildren Rachel, Hillary Tiernan (J.P.) and Erin;  her daughter Aileen Hughes (Michael) and grandchildren Neill and Elizabeth; her daughter Patricia Day (Todd) and grandchildren Claire Nelson (Ryan), Courtney Bear (Nathan) and Emily Mike (Phil); and 11 great-grandchildren.

Her brother, Joseph C. Jordan Jr., died before her.

A funeral mass will be held Aug. 19 at 11 a.m. at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

H. Wade Purcell, 69, owned real estate company

July 31, 2022

Harvey Wade Purcell of Surfside Beach died unexpectedly on July 31. He was 69.

He was born Sept. 3, 1952, in New Jersey, the son of the late Harvey H. Purcell and Rosemary M. Purcell. Known as Wade, he graduated from North Forsyth High School in 1971 and  attended Forsyth Tech for one year. After graduation, he started his first career as a driver for a trucking firm in Winston Salem, N.C.. He retired in 1980 and began his second career as a cable splicer with his younger brother at King Communications. He worked his way up to chief technician. 

After leaving King Communications, Mr. Purcell worked in real estate investing and licensed building as owner of Purcell Properties South. 

He was remembered as a stand-up guy who cared about his family and his friends. He was wise beyond his years and was relied on by many. 

He is survived by his wife, Marti B. Purcell; his sons, Jason and Ryan of Winston Salem; a grandson, Nathan, of Winston Salem; his brothers, John Purcell (Judy) of Pawleys Island  and William Purcell (Kay) of Awendaw; his sister, Diane Jones (Jeff) of Mount Pleasant; and many nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of his life will be held Aug. 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Pawleys Tap and Pour.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.

William S. Barber, 80, won 2008 SCGA senior title

July 30, 2022

William Sutton Barber  of Boone, N.C., a former River Club resident, died July 30 surrounded by his family, following a battle with cancer. He was 80.

He was born Feb. 3, 1942, in Charlotte, the son of Howard and Eleanor Barber. He attended Myers Park High School and graduated from Virginia Episcopal School in 1961. 

He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1967. 

Mr. Barber had a long, successful career in the Charlotte area as a marketing and sales leader. He worked for  IBM Corp., PCA International, Fritch Butterfield Co., Prime Equities and Goodyear & Associates.

He moved to the Pawleys Island area in 2000 and moved to Boone to be closer to family in 2010, but continued to visit every summer.

Mr. Barber had many hobbies and outdoor activities that he enjoyed, especially boating, water skiing and sailing. Golf was his lifelong passion. He won the S.C. Golf Association Super Senior Championship in 2008.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Mickie S. Barber; two daughters, Lawson Evrenidis (Basil) of Pittsboro, N.C., and Lesley Toutain (Stephan) of West Hartford, Conn.; his stepchildren, Justin Parlier (Amy) of Boone and Natasha Beachum (Jerry) of Monroe, N.C.; his grandchildren, Jonathon Powell, Ashley Powell, Chloe Toutain, Winston Toutain, Loic Toutain, Brandy Shook, Derik Beachum (Alexis) and Jake Beachum; his sisters, Ann Foust of Charlotte and Joan Davis (Dave) of Atlanta; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

His first wife, Judith LeShanna Barber, died before him as did another sister, Margaret Fehrs. 

A memorial service will be held in Boone at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Watauga Humane Society, P.O. Box 1835, Boone, N.C. 28607.

Ronald C. Gould, 85, retired airline pilot

July 27, 2022

Ronald Carroll Gould of Georgetown, Texas, a pilot who owned a second home at Litchfield by the Sea, died July 27. He was 85.

He was born Nov. 12, 1936, in Rock Island, Ill.,  the son of Carroll and Helen Kain Gould. He grew up in Chillicothe, Ill. Ron joined the cadet program in 1960 and served as a pilot in the Air Force until 1966. He was hired at American Airlines as a pilot and retired as a check airman in 1996.

Mr. Gould loved sports of all kinds and was a fan of the Chicago Cubs and Dallas Cowboys. He liked spending time fishing or hunting. He played in local tennis tournaments and played in pickup basketball games well into his 60s. He also loved playing golf. 

He was remembered as a quiet and humble man who was a Christian with a servant’s heart. 

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Iris Jackson Gould; a daughter, Beverly Gould; a son Ron Gould Jr. (Pam); his grandsons, Dalton, Zane and Jett Gould; his brothers Dennis Gould (Nancy), Norman Gould (Carol) and Bruce Gould (Diane); a sister, Carol Ann Pence; a sister-in-law, Carol; and 20 nieces and nephews.

Two sisters, Jeanette Cox and Sandra Grisham, and a brother, Gary Gould, died before him.

Celebrations of his life will be held Aug. 20 at 4 p.m. at Longman Hall in Chillicothe and Sept. 10 at 1 p.m. at The Oaks at Legacy in Georgetown, Texas. 

Memorials may be may to charities that support veterans or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Ron Jolly, 67, had career as computer programmer

July 6, 2022

Ron Jolly of Murrells Inlet died July 6 at home surrounded by his loved ones after a seven-year battle with brain cancer. He was 67.

Born Nov. 14, 1956, he grew up on Peachtree Street in Gaffney. His role models and motivators were his parents (Maynard and Mildred Jolly), his four older brothers (Kenny, Melvin, Stanley and Jimmy Jolly), his granny next door (Granny Jolly) and his football coach (Jack Huss). 

High school and college afforded Ron an opportunity to excel on the football field as a running back. He often remarked that because he was never the biggest or fastest guy out there, he had to work a lot harder.

After college, he entered the IT world before IT was a thing. He was never sure if this showed great foresight or just luck. By the end of his computer programming career, he was employed by his own company and flew to Washington, D.C., every week to work a high security clearance government contract.

 He loved what he did, but his greatest pleasures were simple ones: being surrounded by family, hanging out with friends, meeting with his small group from church, keeping up with sports and politics, enjoying his front porch, building an outdoor fire  and drinking a beer.

Though three craniotomies, radiation and chemo slowly stole parts of who he was, he never lost his goodness, humility, faith, sincerity or sense of humor.

Mr. Jolly was always more concerned about the other guy, making sure no one was inconvenienced on his account, determined to do the right thing in every situation, and honest to a fault. As in, “Yes, officer, I was speeding.”

He refused to be limited by medical experts’ forecasts. Less than two weeks before his death, he ran a mile and a half around his house, lifted weights and completed his entire core exercise routine on his back porch. A football mentality of “get up and run it off” drove him to push himself.

He approached his diagnosis with optimism and a strong, quiet faith in Jesus Christ. He never complained. He was upbeat to the end, insisting he’d had the best life anyone could ever have. He remained true to himself, loved big, and refused to leave anything on the field.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy; his daughters, Casey and Emily, and his sons-in-law, Will and Andrew; and his grandchildren, Ruth, Elizabeth, Henry, Sam, Matthew and David.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. today at All Saints Church. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Legacy Fund of Lenoir Rhyne University, Attn: Bears Club, P.O. Box 7280 Hickory, NC 8603 or to All Saints Church, 3560 Kings River Rd., Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Carolyn M. Wolfe, 79, retired teacher

June 29, 2022

Carolyn Moss Wolfe, a former Murrells Inlet resident, died June 29 in Spartanburg surrounded by her family after a long illness. She was 79.

She was born in Chattanooga, Tenn., the daughter of  Robert Henry Moss and Adelaide Moore Moss. She graduated from McClenaghan High School in Florence in 1960 and from Columbia College in 1964. She married Joseph Lester Wolfe III on July 31, 1965. They were married for 54 years before his death in 2020. 

She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend, admired by those who knew and loved her for her strength of character, and seeing the good in every person, and every situation. She lived her life committed to serving the Lord with a genuine, sweet selflessness.

Mrs. Wolfe worked in elementary education for 37 years. She taught second grade at Delmae Elementary in Florence for many years and finished her career in Florence District 1 as an ESL teacher. She formed lasting relationships with students, parents and co-workers. 

Mrs. Wolfe had a passion for animals and volunteered with the Florence Area Humane Society doing education programs, pet therapy and rescue work. She was also involved with Bethany Christian Services because of her strong belief in the sanctity of life and support for the pro-life movement. Her love for all living things also was shown in her flower arranging and genuine green thumb. She participated in the Four O’clock Garden Club and she and her husband had lifelong friends in the Tarantella Dance Club.  She was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Florence and then served as a deacon  in the Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church.

She spent her final months in Spartanburg to be near her son and family.

In her memoirs and family history, “Out on the Porch,” Mrs. Wolfe wrote, “Throughout my adult life  my faith in a loving God has sustained me. I have had challenges in my life as we all do, but I have always known that God’s promise of his presence and grace would see me through.”

She is survived by her son, Joseph Lester Wolfe IV (Anne Pinckney) of Pacolet; her brothers, Robert Henry Moss Jr. (Joanne) and Joseph David Moss (Kristen); her grandchildren, Chappel Pinckney Wolfe and William Rutledge Wolfe; her brother-in-law, Henry D. Wolfe (Debbie); her nieces and nephews, Bryan Moss, Sarah Moss McNeil, Marianna Moss, Rachel Moss, Andy Moss, and Curry Moss; and many cousins and extended family.

Family and friends will gather to honor Mr. and Mrs. Wolfe from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the home of David and Kristen Moss at 2481 Parsons Gate, Florence. Another remembrance gathering will be scheduled in Murrells Inlet.  

A private service for the placement of their ashes at Old Orchard Cemetery in Petersburg, Tenn., will be scheduled.

Dave Halpin, 77, worked for elevator companies

June 20, 2022

George Halpin of Murrells Inlet died June 20 at Grand Strand Regional Medical Center. He was 77.

Known as Dave, he  was born Sept. 9, 1944, in Lenox, Mass., the son of George T. Halpin and Mildred Barden Halpin. He  graduated from Lenox Memorial High School in 1962 where he was known by his nickname “Gigger.” He played baseball and basketball throughout his school years. 

He served as a member of the Army National Guard for six months before going to work at Lenox Machine. He traveled frequently and loved sharing his experiences of sightseeing across Europe.  

Mr. Halpin went on to become a member of the Local 41 Elevator Union. He worked at Baystate Elevator starting in 1971 and finished his career out at Otis Elevator, where he retired at the age 58.  

He was a lifelong member of the American Legion and a member at the VFW, the Moose Lodge and the Elks Lodge.  

Mr. Halpin enjoyed playing golf and played at the GEAA course in Massachusetts for many years. He was an avid Boston sports fan, enjoyed cooking and loved spending time at the beach.  

He retired to the Myrtle Beach area in 2005.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen Halpin; his daughter, Jodi Halpin Raynor of Woburn, Mass.; his son, Jeffrey S. Halpin of Waitsfield, Vt.; his grandchildren, Emily Grace Raynor and Jackson David Raynor of Woburn; his stepchildren, Bill Gazaw (Kelly), Kris and Michelle St. Marie (John) of Pittsfield, Mass., and their children and grandchildren.

His brother, Ronald J. Halpin, died before him.

There will be a memorial service scheduled at a later date.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospitals at stjude.org. 

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Olin R. Warren Jr., 80, volunteer baseball coach

June 12, 2022

Olin R. Warren Jr. of the Tradition Club passed away peacefully on June 12 with his wife at his bedside and son close by after a long battle with COPD. He was 80. 

He was born in Camden, N.J,  the son of Olin and Barbara Warren. He spent his early years in Audubon, N.J., and spent the majority of his life in Point Pleasant Borough and Galloway Township, N.J. Growing up, he attended Valley Forge Military Academy and played American Legion baseball for Brooklawn among other hobbies. 

Mr. Warren enjoyed the simple things in life, such as a day on the golf course, a boat trip with his family and a good hot dog.  Bermuda was a favorite destination with his wife, and golf outings with the fellas in Puerto Rico, Myrtle Beach or close to home were always welcome trips.  

He enjoyed coaching baseball in Point Pleasant for many years.  Throughout his life, he held many jobs, always ensuring his family was well taken care of and safe.  

Those who knew Mr. Warren were always welcomed by his quick wit and his gift of subtly.  Many close to him referred to him as Jack, a tribute to the humor of Jack Nicholson, who was fearless in pointing out the obvious.  Put a Manhattan in his hand and watch the mischief come out.  

Mr. Warren was a generous giver of his time and touched many lives everywhere he went. His family thanked everyone who has been so kind to them.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda Warren; his son, Kenneth N. Warren (Karen); two grandchildren, Carly and Sean; and his sister-in-law, Nancy LaVance (Fred).

Gertrude T. Chandler, 100, won gold at London flower show

June 6, 2022

Gertrude Thomas Chandler of Georgetown, an award-winning gardener, died Monday surrounded by her family. She was 100.

She was born May 1, 1922, the daughter of Sally Gertrude Budd Thomas and Samuel Sidney Thomas. She graduated from Andrews High School and attended Rice Business College. She was married to the late Wilbur Roslyn “Rossie” Chandler.

A lover of nature and the outdoors, Mrs. Chandler was a nationally-accredited master flower show judge and landscape critic, a master gardener, a life member of the National Council of State Garden Clubs and a former chaplain and life member of the Garden Club of South Carolina.  She was chosen to represent the U.S. and won the coveted gold medal for her flower design in the 1996 Royal Horticulture Society’s Chelsea Flower Show in London.  

Mrs. Chandler served on the National Council of Garden Clubs Board for over 25 years.   In addition, she served on the boards of the Kaminski House and the Georgetown Historic Foundation. She served on the Georgetown County Board of Education for 17 years.

A member of Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church for over 75 years, Mrs. Chandler served as a board of trustee chairman, played the piano for the men’s Sunday school class, was a youth group counselor and a member of the chancel choir.  The church gardens, which she designed and landscaped, are included in Nell S. Graydon’s book “South Carolina Gardens.”

She is survived by her daughters, Wilmer C. Richardson (Doug) of Clemson and Linda C. Hansen (Ralph) of Richmond Hill, Ga.; her grandchildren, David Richardson, Ted Richardson, Roslyn H. Woerhrman (Scott), Christine H. Lefevre (Jason) and John Hansen III.; her great-grandsons, Ben, Alex, Jeff, Brian and Michael Richardson, and Chase Lefevre; her great-granddaughter, Madeline Gertrude Woehrman; and many nieces and nephews.

Her sisters, Dorothy T. Carter and Edna T. Sawyer, and her brothers, Basil, Edward, Sidney and David Thomas, died before her.

Funeral services were Wednesday at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church. Burial was in  Elmwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the church, 901 Highmarket St., Georgetown, SC. 29440 or a charity of your choice. 

Lila M. Fairey, 88, former Pawleys Island resident

May 31, 2022

Lila Murray Fairey of Greenville, a former Pawleys Island area resident, died May 31. She was 88.

A Greenville native, she was the daughter of Dr. John Girardeau Murray and Lila Graham Murray. She attended school in Greenville, graduating from Greenville High with the Class of 1952 and often spoke of her fondness for her friends and experiences there. 

Lila then headed to Washington, D.C., for college at Mount Vernon before graduating and returning to Greenville. 

Primarily a resident of Greenville for most of her life, she lived the last 20 years in Pawleys Island married to the late Dr. William Fletcher Fairey III. Following his passing in 2020, Mrs. Fairey returned to Greenville. 

She loved nothing more than to spend time with friends and to be surrounded by her family, whom she adored. She was remembered as loving, gracious and fun. She was as beautiful inside as out and had a deep faith that sustained her throughout her life.

She is survived by her sons, Harold Marion Hewell (Vickie) and Murray McJunkin Hewell (Eileen); her daughters, Lila Hewell Kittredge (John) and Clara Hewell Weston (Nelson); her grandchildren, Lila Marian Kittredge (Eric Freise), John Williamson Kittredge Jr. (Maggie), Zay Jeffries Kittredge II (Jennifer), John Murray Hewell, James McJunkin Hewell, Clara Elizabeth Weston, Caroline Woodward Weston and Shannon Nelson Weston III; and three great-grandchildren, Murray Jeffries Kittredge, Elwyn Marguerite Kittredge and Amarillys Marian Kittredge. Twin great-granddaughters are expected in August and will be named Lila and Murray. 

She is also survived by her godchild, Preston Gibson McAfee and Dr. Fairey’s five children, their spouses and families.

In addition to her parents and husband, her brother, Dr. John Girardeau Murray Jr., and her sister, Martha Murray Gulian, died before her.

A funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. today at First Presbyterian Church in Greenville. A reception will follow at the Poinsett Club. A graveside service will be held Friday at 4 p.m. in the All Saints Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lila Kittredge Endowment Fund at Christ Church Episcopal School, 245 Cavalier Dr., Greenville, SC 29607 or to a charity of your choice.

Condolences may be  sent at thomasmcafee.com.

Benjamin Paget, 85, owned the family car dealership

May 18, 2022

Benjamin L. Paget of Lexington, a former Garden City resident, died May 18. He was 85. 

He was born in Greer, the son of J. Suddath Paget and Ruth Cunningham Paget. He graduated from Furman University.  

Mr. Padget was the third-generation owner of Paget Chevrolet in Greer until its sale in 1988. He served on the city of Greer Public Works Commission and the board for the Bank of Greer and United Carolina Bank.  

He was a member of Greer First Baptist Church, Belin Memorial United Methodist Church and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lexington.  

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Nancee; his brother, John Page (Patsy) of Marietta, Ga.; his daughters, Susan Paget Amick (Brian) of Lexington and Patty Paget Joye (Chris); his son-in-law, Steve Joye of Columbia; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. 

A daughter, Kathy Paget Joye, a brother, James S. Paget Jr., and a sister, Jessie Paget Lamb, died before him.

The family will hold a graveside celebration of life service June 5 at 2 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery in Greer. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 213 St. John’s Church Rd., Lexington, SC 29072.  

Anne Salley, 55, led marketing for Smith Medical Clinic

May 17, 2022

Anne Richie Salley of Pawleys ISland died May 17 at the Medical University of S.C. She was 55.

Anne was born Sept. 20, 1966, in Richmond, Va., the daughter of James Dare Richie and the late Rosann Gray Bateman.  

She was a Winyah Academy graduate and long-time fitness instructor  and personal trainer at the local YMCA.  Anne was a pillar of the community and was known for greeting everyone with her bubbly personality, big smile, and beautiful laugh.  

She was the marketing director at Smith Medical Clinic, where she gave endlessly of herself to promote their mission of providing complete medical care to the uninsured residents in Georgetown County. 

Mrs. Salley was remembered for her uncondition al love and acceptance,  her energy and her love of life. She was a mentor, friend, fitness partner and a shining light to many.  

In addition to her father, she is survived by her husband of 25 years, J. Alexander Salley Jr.; her sons,  Joshua Morris Parker (Taylor Jessica Callinan) and Julian Alexander “Trey” Salley III; a sister, Jennifer Richie of Georgetown; a stepsister, Tiffany Bateman Osborne of Telluride, Colo.; her mother-in-law, Kathryn Wallace Salley of Columbia; her stepmother, Marissa Richie, of Aylett, Va.; two brothers-in-law, Charles Wallace Salley (Susan) of Columbia and Mark Hedrick Salley (Jane) of Columbia; a number of nieces, nephews and extended family. 

In addition to her mother, her stepfather, John Bateman, and her and her father-in-law, Dr. Julian Salley, died before her.

A memorial service will be held Sunday at 4 p.m. at Winyah Auditorium.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Smith Medical Clinic, 99 Baskervill Dr., Pawleys Island, SC 29585. 

Condolences may be sent at grahamfuneralhome.org. 

Charles J. Muratore, 80, coached Little League teams

May 17, 2022

Charles Joseph Muratore of the Tradition Club died May 17 at his home. He was 80.

 He was born Jan. 4, 1942 in Brooklyn, N.Y., the son of Charles Muratore and Helen Izzo Muratore. He was interested in all sports. He was a coach for Little League baseball for many years. He enjoyed gardening, golfing and spending time with his family. He was a member of Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Ann Muratore; his sons, Charles Muratore of Mexico, Michael Muratore (Mary) of Virginia and Christopher Muratore (Melani) of Ohio; a sister, Helene Scharaldi of Florida; seven grandchildren, Riley, Kirby, Claudia, Michael, Christopher, Tobin  and Miles; a great-grandchild, Ellory; and several nephews and a niece.

A funeral mass with military honors will be held  June 25 at 11 a.m. at Precious Blood of Christ.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org) or to Amedisys Hospice, 402 Singleton Ridge Rd., Conway, SC 29526.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Doug Harvey, 81, businessman answered call to Anglican ministry

May 15, 2022

The Rev. M. Douglas Harvey of Pawleys Island died May 15 at his home surrounded by family due to complications related to Parkinson’s. He was 81.

He was born Sept. 22, 1940, in Lynchburg, Va., the son of Bill and Frances Stratton Harvey and older brother to the late Kitty Mauldin (Jess). He served both active and reserve duty in the Marine Corps and attended the University of Richmond. 

He met his future wife, Anne Morrison, in 1965 on a blind date and married her later that year. The couple began life together in Richmond, where Doug started his civilian career in banking.

Relocating to South Carolina in 1975, Rev. Harvey continued in banking until becoming a furniture manufacturer’s rep, traveling the Carolinas and Mid-Atlantic states. He and Anne eventually expanded the company to include their two sons, Gray (Andrea) and Blaine (Heather).

After a lifetime of service in the Lord’s name, he followed his call to ministry and was ordained by the Anglican Church in 2003, gaining the nickname “Deacon Doug.” 

He was known as a kind, gentle spirit who listened with an open and loving heart. 

He responded with truth and peace and often found himself ministering to strangers who approached him at the post office or grocery store. His quick wit often broke the ice or bridged a gap with folks he encountered.

In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Deborah Bryant (Jay); four grandchildren, Liza Campbell (Drew), Lucy, Wave and Curren;  his great-granddaughter, Margot Campbell; and an extended family. His favorite people called him “Pops.” 

His family thanked Amedysis Hospice and his many caregivers, including Dana Funny and Victorious Graham. Rev. Harvey enjoyed many long-term friends who stayed by his side in health and sickness. 

A celebration of his life will be held May 24 at 2 p.m. at The Abbey at Pawleys Island where he served for many years. Family and friends will gather at The Abbey afterward.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Abbey, 46 Gathering Lane, Pawleys Island, SC 29585 or Friendship Place, 1905 Front St., Georgetown, SC 29440.

Sylvia E. Guthrie, 76, former county school administator

May 15, 2022

Sylvia Eugene Guthrie of Pawleys Island, a former administrator in the Georgetown County School District, died May 15 after a long illness. She was 76.

She was born Aug. 19, 1945, in Graham, N.C., the daughter of Bertha Kent Guthrie and Floyd Eugene Guthrie. She grew up in Lamar. After graduating from Lamar High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Furman University. She earned a master’s degree and a doctorate in education from the University of South Carolina.

Dr. Guthrie was a highly effective, well-respected educator, who dedicated her life to the teaching profession and the children of South Carolina. She loved people and was often a mentor to others. Her advice was eagerly sought by her colleagues. 

She began her career as a first-grade teacher, assistant principal and curriculum coordinator in Irmo with Lexington School District 5. She served as principal in Greenwood School District 50 and then Georgetown County Schools. She was also an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction with Georgetown County Schools as well as Lexington School District 1. 

After her retirement, she served as supervisor for student interns at Coastal Carolina University and as a graduate instructor for Webster University. For over 40 years, student learning was her passion. She leaves behind thousands of students and educators she impacted during her life. Our world is much richer for Dr. Guthrie’s dedication and works in the education profession.

She was a member of Belin Memorial United Methodist Church. She was also an avid sports fan who loved all sports at the college and high school levels. Her other interests included music, reading, traveling and the Belin Backpack Ministry that helps to prevent hunger in school-aged children.

A private memorial service will be scheduled.

Memorials may be made to the Belin Memorial UMC Backpack Ministry, P.O. Box 528, Murrells Inlet, S.C. 29576.

William G. Moore Jr., 81, started commercial realty company

May 11, 2022

William Gatewood Moore Jr. of Murrells Inlet, who made a career in commercial real estate, died May 11. He was 81.

He was born Jan. 19, 1941, in Florence, the son of William Gatewood Moore and Mary Cross Moore. He grew up in Marion, where he was an Eagle Scout, an acolyte at the Church of the Advent and a proud member of the 1955 state championship baseball team.

He graduated in 1959 from Woodberry Forest School in Virginia, where he was co-captain of the football team, struggled to pass French and later served on the board of trustees. He attended the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill before earning his bachelor’s degree from St. Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg, N.C.

After moving to New York, he worked on Wall Street at Bankers Trust Co. while pursuing his master’s degreee in business administration at Columbia University.

Mr. Moore moved to Atlanta in 1970 where he met and married Natalie Joy Norris. They raised two sons. He enjoyed a long career in the commercial real estate industry, with the Myrick Co. and his own brokerage, the WG Moore Co., specializing in the sales of office buildings and shopping centers.

He founded National Home Respiratory Care, a home health care provider, in 1990. It was sold eight years later to Lincare.

He spent his final years in Georgetown and Murrells Inlet.

Mr. Moore was remembered as man with great compassion, an infectious smile and a generous heart. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a lifelong passion for history.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons, William Gatewood Moore III and James Robert Moore.

A graveside service will be held Saturday at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Marion.

There is a guest book at burroughsfh.com.

Paul Z. DuBois, 86, librarian was a Pulitzer Prize nominee

May 7, 2022

Paul Zinkhan DuBois of Pawleys Island died May 7 following a long illness. He was 86.

He was born Jan. 5, 1936, the sixth and only surviving child of John Harold and Marie Miller DuBois. He grew up in Kent and Oxford, Ohio, attended Antioch College and graduated from Hiram College. He went on to obtain his master’s degree in library science from Kent State University and his doctorate in American studies from Case Western Reserve. 

His doctoral thesis, “Paul Leicester Ford: An American Man of Letters 1865-1902,” was published as a book in 1977 and nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. 

Dr. DuBois worked as an academic librarian for the entirety of his career, holding positions in Cooperstown, N.Y.; Kent, Ohio; Trenton, N.J.; and Rock Hill.

He was married for 62 years to the late Carol Ann Johnson DuBois.

Dr. DuBois was remembered as a delightful human being with the ability to quote extensively from anything he’d ever read. He was also a consummate storyteller. 

He is survived by his daughter, Megan (Jonathan Alden); his son, Paul Christopher DuBois; and his grandchildren Alexander, Campbell, Nathaniel and Sigourney Alden.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your local library.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Joseph A. Chiarilli Jr., 64, owner of Classic Style Homes

May 6, 2022

Joseph Anthony Chiarilli Jr. of Murrells Inlet died May 6 at his home surrounded by family after a long illness. He was 64.

He was born Feb. 14, 1958, in Rochester, N.Y., the son of Mary Malone Chiarilli and the late Joseph Chiarilli. 

He played many sports in his youth and moved to Myrtle Beach on a soccer scholarship to Coastal Carolina University. He earned degrees in business finance and accounting. 

After college, he worked toward his contractor’s license and began doing what he loved: building. He became a general contractor and owner of Classic Style Homes. 

Mr. Chiarilli was an avid golfer who loved his Sunday group and the “Golfsters” group he played with for many years.

His first wife, Gloria Banks Chiarilli, died before him.

Mr. Chiarilli was remembered as a generous and kind person who made friends easily and kept them close for years.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Heidi Chiarilli; his sister, Theresa Chiarilli; his niece, Courtney Bellinger (Jeremy); his nephew, Michael Benson; his godson, Anthony Bellinger; two stepchildren from his first marriage, Adrian Brown (Tara) and Nichole Godwin (Will); two stepchildren from his second marriage, Daniel Geiger (Margaret) and Andrew Geiger; five grandchildren, Billy, Madison, Anna Grace, Adilynn and Raquel; and an extended family.

A celebration of his life will be held May 22 at 3 p.m. at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church. Family and friends will gather after the service at Inlet Affairs.   

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amedisys Hospice, 402 Singleton Ridge Rd., Suite 3, Conway, SC 29526.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Christine M. Testa, 88, retired math teacher

May 4, 2022

Christine Marie Testa of the Tradition Club, a retired math teacher, died May 4 at her home. She was 88. 

The daughter of Edward and Caroline Tenco Caruso, Christine grew up in Newark, N.J. and attended West Side High School, where she was head majorette, lead in the school drama  and valedictorian. 

She met her future husband, Thomas Testa, at Montclair State College, where she graduated as a mathematics major in 1954.

A former resident of Montclair, Nutley and North Caldwell, N.J., she taught math in the Nutley Public Schools division until retiring in 1994, serving as department head at Franklin Junior High School, and long-time Honor Society sponsor at Nutley High School. 

She was a member of the Nutley Education Association, and a lifetime member of the New Jersey Education Association.

She also supported her husband’s leadership roles with the Belleville and Essex County Education Associations. A strong woman of faith, she and her family were parishioners of Holy Family Catholic Church in Nutley. 

During these years, Mrs. Testa could also be seen in her “first lady” role proudly cheering for Belleville High School and Montclair State football teams coached by her husband.

Summers in Myrtle Beach led to the couple’s retirement to Pawleys Island. 

Mrs. Testa was a member of Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church, where she was active in the Women’s Club, serving as a model at its benefit fashion show.

She was remembered for her kindness, resilience, intellect and love of family. Her fierce commitment to biweekly salon visits, and her nickname “Lightning,” will forever bring smiles to her family. 

Mrs. Testa enjoyed travel, fashion, decorating, music and theater.

Mrs. Testa is predeceased by her two parents, her beloved husband, and her sister and lifetime confidante, Marilyn C. Allen. 

She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Testa Rye (Kenneth); her sons, Thomas E. Testa (Gelsa) and Edward Testa (Mary); five grandchildren, Kristin Testa, Dana Rye, Gina McGuiness (Paul), Daniel Rye  and Nicole Testa; two great-grandchildren, Emersyn and Madisyn McGuinness; and 14 nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were May 13 in Cedar Grove, N.J.

Condolences may be sent at shookscedargrove.com.

Memorials may be made to Fight Colorectal Cancer at fightcolorectalcancer.org.

Rusty Langley, 86, worked 40 years in textile industry

May 2, 2022

Burnice Russell Langley Jr. of Pawleys Island died Monday at his home with his wife at his side following a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 86.

Known as Rusty, he was born Nov. 18, 1935, in Columbia, the son of B. Russell Langley and Edith M. Langley of Greenville. He attended Greenville High School and graduated from Clemson University with a degree in textile engineering. He served two years in the Army.

Mr. Langley worked in the textile industry over 40 years. Upon retirement, he worked in real estate at Pawleys Island for several years.

He was a member of Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church where he sang in the choir and was active in the Men’s Breakfast Ministry. Some said he was the best scrambled egg cook in the state. He was an avid flounder fisherman in Pawleys Creek. He was an accomplished water skier and taught the sport to his sons.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marilyn Langley; his sister Salley Batson (Elliott) of Greenville; his sons, Russell Langley (Robin) of Charlotte, Christopher Langley (Beth) of Spartanburg and Brian Langley (Kerry) of Buford, Ga.; his daughter, Inger Lilleoer (Hans) of Denmark; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. 

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:30 a.m. May 12 at Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amedisys Hospice Care, 402 Singleton Ridge Rd., Suite C, Conway, SC 29526 or Bread of Life Ministry at the church, 9967 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC 29585 (pawleyschurch.com).

There is a guest book at burroughsfh.com.

Richard J. Brook, 89, avid gardener

May 1, 2022

Richard John Brook of Murrells Inlet died May 1 at his home. He was 89.

He was born April 29, 1933, in Winona, Minn., the son of Chauncey Joseph Borzyskowski and Winifred Ernestine Bauer. He served in the Army.

Mr. Brook was an avid gardener and a master gardener in the Brookgreen Gardens program.  He had a love of art, taking classes as part of the Seacoast group through UNC and OLLI classes with Barney Slice at Pawleys Island.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Carol A. Brook; his children, Richard J. Brook Jr. of Asheville, N.C., Daniel R. Brook (Teresa St. Marten) of Portland, Ore., Timothy S. Brook (Margaret) of Duxbury, Mass., and Jennifer J. Brook (J. Dunwoody) of Laconia, N.H.; his grandchildren, Richard J. Brook III, Henry A. Brook, Samuel B. Brook, Charles Brook, Emily Brook Sahlberg, Robert Brook and Andrew Brook.

His  sisters, Frances Korupp and Elizabeth Newman, died before him.  

His family thanked Amedysis Hospice and his caregivers, Amanda Simpson and Katrina Gause.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Brain Foundation or a related brain research organization.

There is a guest book at burroughsfh.com.

Anthony H. Dallas, 53, GHS grad worked as electrician

April 29, 2022

Anthony Harris Dallas of Pawleys Island died April 29 surrounded by his family. He was 53.

Known as Dallas, he was born Dec. 9, 1968, in Bethal, N.C., the son of Hilda and Doug Simon and Will and Mary Kay Dallas. He grew up in Georgetown and graduated from Georgetown High School. He joined the National Guard, serving for 10 years.

Mr. Dallas was an electrician by trade. He enjoyed fishing, helping others and spending time with family and friends. He was remembered as a kind and generous man with an endearing smile and an infectious spirit.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his daughters, Megan and Katie Dallas; his sister, Ashley Godfrey; and his fiancée, Tammy Jewell, and her children, Skylar and Gage.

A celebration of his life will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Georgetown. The family will receive friends at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a college fund for his daughters, P.O. Box 2817, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

R.J. ‘Bubber’ Ferdon, 91, businessman chaired hospital boards

April 29, 2022

Richard James “Bubber” Ferdon Jr. of Georgetown died April 29 at Veteran Village in Florence.  He was 91.

He was born Dec. 12, 1930, in Georgetown, a son of Richard James Ferdon and Maggie Camlin Ferdon. He was a graduate of Winyah High School and The Citadel, class of 1951, where he was a member of the Summerall Guards, the boxing team, and Block “C” Club. 

Mr. Ferdon served with the 24th Infantry Division in Japan and the 45th Infantry Division in the Korean War as a rifle platoon leader and company commander. He was awarded the Bronze Star for valor with oak leaf cluster, the Combat Infantryman Badge, Korean Service Medal and Japan Occupation Medal. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW. 

Mr. Ferdon was owner and operator of the Western Auto Store for 35 years and entered into commercial real estate until his retirement in 2010. 

Mr. Ferdon served on many boards including, the Georgetown Hospital board of trustees for 35 years, where he was a past chairman and secretary. He later served as secretary and chairman of the board of the Waccamaw Community Hospital. 

He was honored as South Carolina Hospital Trustee of the year in 2007. 

He was a chairman of the board of the Methodist Oaks Retirement Home and a board member of Tara Hall Home for Boys. He served as president of the S.C. Retail Council, Georgetown Rotary Club, Winyah Indigo Society and Georgetown Cotillion Club. 

He served as a director at Carolina First Bank and the local advisory board of S.C. National Bank. 

He was married to the late Mary Elizabeth Fielder Ferdon.

Mr. Ferdon was a member of Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church until 1964 when he became a charter member of Herbert Memorial United Methodist Church, where he served as a lay leader. 

Mr. Ferdon was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved spending time with friends and family. 

He is survived by three sons, Richard Fielder Ferdon (Joyce) and James Haskell Ferdon of Georgetown, and Robert Jackson Ferdon of Conway; two daughters, Mary Beth Ferdon Kornahrens (Glenn) of Suches, Ga., and Anne Ferdon Sawyer (Clint) of Pawleys Island; six grandchildren, Richie Ferdon (Allison), Rangeley Ferdon Laney (Edward), Steve and Maggie Kornahrens, Jackson Ferdon (Leatha) and Lizzie Moore; and four great-grandchildren, Mikey and Danny O’Briant, and Thomas and Emma Laney. 

His brother Edward James “Sonny” Ferdon, died before him. 

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m.  Friday at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church by the Rev. Ross Chellis. 

The family will receive friends in the church parlor at 10 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Herbert Memorial United Methodist Church, 84 Forest Ave., Georgetown, SC 29440, or The Citadel Alumni Association, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston, SC 29409. 

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com. 

Betty L.G. Bourne, 91, nurse directed surgical services

April 28, 2022

Betty Louise Gunter Bourne of Georgetown died April 28 at Mount Pleasant Gardens. She was 91.

She was born Jan. 9, 1931, in Georgetown, a daughter of William Jesse Gunter and Pearl McKenzie Gunter.   She was a step-daughter of Troy Poston. Betty graduated from Winyah High School in 1949, and the Medical College of South Carolina School of Nursing in 1953.  She worked briefly for International Paper Co. before starting a 38-year career at Georgetown Memorial Hospital.  She retired in 1992 as operating room supervisor and director of surgical services. She was married for 58 years to Carlton Russell Bourne, who died in 2015. 

Mrs. Bourne was a member of Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church and was active in the Susanna Wesley Church School Class. She loved her family and took great pride in her children and grandchildren.  She loved spending time at Pawleys Island. 

She is survived by her son, Charlie Bourne (Sheryl) of Mount Pleasant; her grandchildren, Grayson Bourne (Nikki), Parker Bourne (Brooke) and Bethany Bourne; her great-granddaughter, Ellie Kate Bourne; her brother, Donald Gunter (Joyce) of Georgetown; and her sister, Carol Jean Frye (Jim) of Indio, Calif.

Her daughter, Sarah Ellen Bourne, and a grandson, Dawson Bourne, died before her.

Funeral services were held Tuesday at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church by the Rev. Ross Chellis.  Burial was in Elmwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the church, 901 Highmarket St., Georgetown, SC 29440.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

A.H. ‘Doc’ Lachicotte Jr. | 1926-2022 Hammock maker who built on traditions

April 24, 2022

It started as a challenge.

Some friends told Doc Lachicotte he would never make a living at Pawleys Island; it was too far from Myrtle Beach.

That was in the early 1950s, when he first started selling real estate. Oceanfront lots sold for $1,500. “And they couldn’t sell them,” he recalled.

But over a career that spanned nearly seven decades, he created businesses that came to define Pawleys Island by celebrating its past and making those who bought property from him want to protect it.

Lachicotte died Sunday at his home next door to one of those businesses, The Hammock Shops. He was 95.

Arthur Herbert Lachicotte Jr. was born Sept. 20, 1926, in Manning. His mother, the former Virginia Ingram Wilson, had gone there to be with her family because the ferries that provided the only transport between her home at Waverly Plantation were uncertain. His father, Arthur Herbert Sr., had various jobs, including leasing land at Willbrook for hunting parties.

The senior Lachicotte had been nicknamed “Little Doc” for his habit of following Dr. Ward Flagg around Brookgreen as a child. With the birth of his son, he became Big Doc.

Little Doc grew up at Waverly, which his great-grandfather bought in 1871, and Pawleys Island. He went to a two-room school at what is now the corner of Highway 17 and Waverly Road.

His father started making rope hammocks from a pattern learned from his brother-in-law.  The Lachicottes sold them at a store under their house on Pawleys Island.

Little Doc and his two sisters, Elizabeth and Alberta, made them, too.

Lachicotte recalled in a 2019 interview that he earned $1 a day, which was spending money when he was in school at Winyah High before heading to Clemson College at age 16.

His studies were interrupted when he joined the Army during World War II. He served in the occupation of Japan.

Lachicotte then returned to Clemson, where he was a student manager of the 1948 football team that went undefeated under coach Frank Howard. He graduated in 1949 with a degree in horticulture.

He started out selling real estate with the H.B. Springs Co.

His parents had moved their shop from Pawleys Island to the mainland when the Georgetown bridges were built and the highway was paved in 1938. 

Lachicotte opened a nursery and a garden store next to the Hammock Shop.

He had married the former Martha Louise McDonald in 1957 and together they shifted their business from garden items to gifts.

They took their hammocks to a garden show in New York the next year and got orders from major retailers.

A hammock factory was built, then relocated and the factory converted to shop space.

Lachicotte was inspired by shopping areas he saw while selling hammocks around the country.

“Why can’t we have a plantation village?” he wondered.

He brought buildings from Waverly to the Hammock Shops, including the one-room school that his father had attended.

Lachicotte sold the hammock company in 1983 to Phil Prince, who had been captain of the  1948 Clemson football team.

He had opened his own real estate company at the Hammock Shops in the 1960s. He was part of the group that bought Wachesaw Plantation in the 1980s. He recalled in a 2010 interview that the property was being considered for a mobile home park.

“It’s a mistake not to keep the quality of life we have here,” he said.

The result was the golf course community on the riverfront.

Lachicotte and some partners had bought property at Caledonia Plantation in the 1970s to use as a fish club. In the 1990s, two golf courses were developed at True Blue.

“I think, if anything, I’ve had a feel for the landscape,” Lachicotte said at the 50th anniversary of the Hammock Shops. “Otherwise, it would just be another thing in Myrtle Beach.”

In addition to his business interests, he was active in leadership roles at All Saints, Waccamaw, and The Abbey, serving as senior and junior warden, the vestry and stewardship. He represented the Diocese of South Carolina as a delegate to the national convention several times. He was transformed at a Cursillo weekend in 1979 and devoted himself to spreading the Gospel. 

He was a member of the Winyah Indigo Society, Georgetown Cotillion, Mayor of North Inlet, the Brookgreen Gardens board of trustees, Santee Cooper customer advisory council, Clemson University board of visitors, and served on the boards of the Georgetown County Water and Sewer District, Georgetown Marine Institute, and the Horry-Georgetown Technical College Foundation. 

He was named to the Myrtle Beach Golf Hall of Fame. He was S.C. Economic Development Ambassador for Georgetown County in 2007. He was awarded an honorary degree of doctor of public service from Coastal Carolina University in 2009 and the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. 

In addition to his wife of 64 years, he is survived by his daughters, Cecile L. Spivey (Steve), Virginia L. Aimar (Charles) and Louise Lachicotte; his grandchildren, Daniel Spivey (Caroline), Lauren Spivey, Adam Paquette, Charles Aimar and Margaret Aimar; and his great-granddaughter, Gibson Spivey. 

In addition to his parents, his sisters, Elizabeth L. Middleton and Alberta L. Quattlebaum, died before him. 

The family will greet friends at The Abbey on May 4 from 5 to 7  p.m. 

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. May 5 at All Saints Church, followed by a reception in the ACTS building.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Abbey (theabbeypawleysisland.com); All Saints Church; AMI Kids (amikids.org); or Brookgreen Gardens (brookgreen.org). 

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Eddie Reed, 88, former LCC resident was business executive

April 21, 2022

James Edward Thomas Reed of Myrtle Beach, a former Litchfield Country Club resident, died April 21. He was 88.

Known as Eddie, he was born May 26, 1933, in Jay, Maine, the fourth of six children of Jimmy and Grace Reed and their only son. 

He learned to speak French before English and skipped two grades before graduating from Livermore Falls High School in 1950. He graduated from Norwich University in Vermont, where he was a member of the Theta Chi Fraternity, Alpha Chapter, and played several sports. 

After graduation in 1954, he joined the Army and served as a first lieutenant. While stationed at Fort Drum in Watertown, N.Y., he met his future wife, Nancy DeCilles. They were married on Sept. 7, 1959.

The couple moved to California, where Mr. Reed built his career as a business executive. He worked at Fairchild, the first business in what would later become the Silicon Valley. He moved to Florida in the 1970s to work for General Electric before moving to Dalton, Ohio, to become vice president of operations for the Allen Group. He then transfered to Connecticut before an early retirement to Pawleys Island.

He was a lifelong Catholic and a die-hard Boston Red Sox fan. He traveled the world, became an avid golfer, served on the Petaluma, Calif., Library Board and the Dalton City Council. He coached his boys in baseball, was president of many organizations such as the Petaluma Jaycees, the Keystone Country Club and the VFW.

After Mrs. Reed’s sudden death in 1993, the next four years were tough and lonely until he met Sharron Davis. She brought him back to life and they spent the last 24 years together. They spent almost 20 years in Clearwater, Fla., until Mr. Reed had a stroke and they made the decision to move back to Myrtle Beach where two of his four children lived.

In 2011, his family had another tragedy when his oldest grandchild, Travis, was killed at the age of 23 while serving as a missionary in Kazakhstan.

His last five years in Myrtle Beach were a blessing to all, with many wonderful family get-togethers and memories made.

He is survived by his four children, Danielle Eiler (Eric) of Myrtle Beach, James K. Reed (Robin) of Akron, Ohio, Robert Reed (Maureen) of Wallingford, Conn., and Michelle Smith (James) of Murrells Inlet; his bonus daughter, Terri Smokovich (George) of Ambridge, Pa.; 16 grandchildren, Corbin Eiler (Brandie), Austin Eiler (Renee), Jenna Horner (Adam), Jaclyn Reed (Tyler), James Edward Reed II, Brendan, Connor, Katie and Keera Reed, Heather Price (Jonathan), Brittany Vaughan (Kat), Kyndell and Kasey Smith and Adam and Noah Smokovich; five great-grandchildren, Cameron, Cooper and Carson Eiler and Abigail and Makenna Eiler; a sister, Jeanine Wilkins (Hersey) of Turner, Maine; two sisters-in-law, Rosetta DeCilles of Dexter, N.Y., and Sharon DeCilles Van de Wiele (Leon) of Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; and numerous nieces and nephews.  

Funeral services were held April 24 at Burroughs Funeral Home in Murrells Inlet by Father Edward Fitzgerald. Burial with military honors will be June 4 in the Dalton Cemetery. A party to celebrate his life will be held afterward at the Pines Country Club in Orrville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Travis Eiler Scholarship Fund at Conway National Bank, 3591 Northgate Rd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29588.

Theodore S. Royall Jr., 83, businessman played for Duke

April 19, 2022

Theodore Stuart Royall Jr., 83 of Pawleys Island and Durham, N.C., died April 19. He was 83.

He was born Oct. 8, 1937, in Clinton, N.C., the son of Stuart and Blanch Royall. As a young man, he excelled in many sports and found a deep passion for football at Duke University and in the NFL. He played center for the Blue Devils, graduating with a degree in history in 1960. He was drafted by the L.A. Rams.

Mr. Royall built a career in insurance, real estate and construction over four decades. 

As a founding member of Epworth United Methodist Church, he served faithfully in the church and in the community.

He is survived by his sister, Peggy; his children, Kelly, Jennifer, Kristy and Stuart; his grandchildren, Price, Kathryn, Sarah, Jeremiah, Alex and Sydney; and his great-granddaughter, Millie. His wife, Linda, died before him, as did his  brother, John Alvin.

A memorial service was held April 21 at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church.

Memorials may be made to AIM Church or Belin United Methodist.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Sid Hood, 73, restaurant owner helped start Maritime Museum

April 17, 2022

John Sidney Hood III of Georgetown died April 17 at his home. He was 73.

Known as Sid, he was born Jan. 15, 1949, in Gastonia, N.C., the son of Dr. John Sidney Hood Jr. and Nell Sudduth Hood.  He was a founder of the Georgetown Wooden Boat Show and the S.C. Maritime Museum. In addition, he supported the museum’s youth sailing program. He also served on the board of the Georgetown County Airport Commission. 

Mr. Hood was best known by many for the waterfront dining establishment, The River Room.  As an owner of the popular downtown restaurant, he created a warm and inviting space for locals and tourists to enjoy dining on local seafood with family and friends.  

He loved discovering good food, wine and live music.  His favorite travel destinations were New Orleans, Austin, Las Vegas and the Napa Valley. 

He is survived by his wife, Sally Swineford Hood; his sister, Betsy Cowan (Mark) of Myrtle Beach; his brother, Taylor Harrison Hood (Anne) of Lexington, N.C.; two nephews, Harrison Hood (Morgan) and David Cowan; a niece, Anna Hood; and his great-niece and nephew, Parker and Kate Hood.

Memorials may be made to the S.C. Maritime Museum Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 2228, Georgetown, SC 29442 (scmaritimemuseum.org).

Joyce Goode, 92, managed women’s clothing stores

April 11, 2022

Dorothy Joyce Goode of Litchfield Country Club died April 11 at Waccamaw Community Hospital. She was 92. 

She was born Oct. 5, 1929, in Media, Pa., a daughter of Robert E. Bullock and Dorothy Mink Bullock.  Known as Joyce, she spent her summers in Wildwood Crest, N.J., where her parents owned and operated the Hotel Belmar founded by her grandfather, George Mink, in 1936.  Joyce married Edward G. Goode in Philadelphia. They eventually moved to Wyckoff, N.J., in 1955.  

Mrs. Goode managed seven women’s clothing stores in North Jersey, New York and Connecticut.  Mr. Goode worked for 35 years for First National City Bank on Park Avenue in New York. They retired and moved to Litchfield Country Club in 1985.

Mrs. Goode attended Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church and participated in the ladies knitting group.

She is survived by her two sons, Keith A. Goode of Myrtle Beach and Edward G. Goode Jr. of Murrells Inlet.

Arrangements will be announced by the Georgetown Chapel of Mayer-Ethridge Funeral Home.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Richard G. Howard, 85, never got around to retiring

April 7, 2022

Richard Grandison Howard of Pawleys Island died April 7 at his home. He was 85.

He was born Nov. 21, 1936, in Darlington, the son of William Thomas and Juanita Graham Howard, and the brother of the late William Thomas Howard Jr. He graduated from St. Johns High School, then earned his degree from The Citadel, Company L, in 1958.

His professional career was long and varied, ranging from the stockyard to stock brokerage, then to real estate, timberland and land management. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he never got around to retiring. 

Mr. Howard served on numerous boards and committees, including Brookgreen Gardens and St. James Brick Church. An avid outdoorsman, he was fond of the forests and waters all over South Carolina, especially Witherspoon Island, a family property in Darlington County, and a place he frequented since his early childhood.

He will be remembered for his appreciation of good food, good stories and lasting friendships, including those in McClellanville, his home away from home.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 64 years, Kathleen Green “Snoots” Howard; two daughters, Kathleen Howard Dowis (Chip) of Charleston and Helen Elizabeth Howard of Sullivan’s Island; one son, Richard Grandison Howard Jr. (Martha) of Raleigh, N.C.; three grandchildren, George Dowis, Grandison Howard and Addie Howard, who referred to him as “Buddy”; and his friend Fitz Lee Howard, an energetic, black Labrador retriever.

A memorial service was held April 11 at the old All Saints Church.

Memorials may be made to St. James Brick Church, P.O. Box 123, McClellanville, SC 29458, or the Howard Family Scholarship at The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston, SC 29406.

Mary Ann Teetor, 93, was active in community affairs

April 3, 2022

Mary Ann Compton Teetor, who was active in the civic and political life of her former home in Fort Wayne, Ind., died April 3 at her home in Pawleys Island. She was 93.

She was born Oct. 28, 1928, in Indianapolis, the daughter of  Clara Ruth (Meid) and Charles William Compton. The family lived at varying times in Indianapolis and Carmel, Ind., where Mary Ann attended public schools. 

With her older brothers in the Army during World War II and her mother working full-time, Mary Ann took over the housekeeping and cooking duties while in high school. However, she refused to let that interfere with her social life. She claimed to know each of her more than 400 classmates at Shortridge High School personally. She graduated in 1946, then earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics education from Indiana University Bloomington in 1950. 

During her college years, she met her future husband, Tom. They were married June 24, 1950, and lived in Cincinnati before settling in Fort Wayne. She joined the Junior League and helped organize and perform with their puppetry group. They achieved prominence for the productions they created for elementary schools, representing the Junior League at the national convention of puppeteers.

During her youth, she was a member of the Methodist Church, but a few years after moving to Fort Wayne, Mrs. Teetor joined and was an active member of Plymouth Congregational Church. She was also a member of Psi Iota Xi service sorority and worked at the Christmas Bureau for years. Although  she preferred to be just one of the workers, she was elected president of the Women’s Committee for the Philharmonic (now the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Foundation). 

She dragged her husband into politics and public service, serving as his vice committeeman (and doing 90 percent of the work) of the Allen County Republican Party for 25 years. She served as co-chairman of a congressional campaign and declined an offer to be county vice chair.

She was active in PTA and a serious taskmistress to her four daughters when it came to both schoolwork and learning how to do more than boil water.

Mrs. Teetor was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, Duodecimo research club, The Saturday Club (that met on Monday), Child Study (an arcane group of wives who deigned to disclose the real subject material) and two bridge clubs. She loved bridge and played until the games were stopped in 2020 by the pandemic. Her sense of humor was legend. One of her husband’s co-workers called her “the funniest lady in town.”

Mrs. Teetor faced challenges with courage and humor. When her husband got his pilot’s license to fly his own plane on business, she took a course to learn how to land if the pilot become incapacitated. Hoping to wean him from flying, she suggested they take a course and charter a boat on vacation. “I can swim; I can’t fly,” she said. They got a boat, too. Asked if she enjoyed the plane trips, she said, “I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I had known I would live through it.”

The Teetors moved to Fort Myers, Fla., for a few years before they moved to Pawleys Island, where their youngest daughter and her husband lived. They moved into the Lakes at Litchfield in 2011. 

Mrs. Teetor was one of God’s best people, her family said.

She is survived by her husband, Thomas S. Teetor; her daughters, Elizabeth T. Sherman, Barbara T. Waite (Erin), Catherine T. Miles (Mark) and Ruth T. Filchak (Tom); nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Her brothers, Charles W. Compton and David Meid Compton, and her sisters-in-law, Kathryn C. Compton and Constance T. Rodie, died before her.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. 

Services will be announced. Interment will be in Indiana.

Jimmy Motley, 90, ‘the best electrician around’

April 3, 2022

James Edwin Motley of Murrells Inlet  died Sunday at home surrounded by his family.  He was 90.

Known as Jimmy, he was one of eight children of Wade and Ellen Motley of Columbia. He served in the Army as a heavy equipment mechanic during the Korean War.

His father taught him the electrical business, and he was a master electrician in Columbia when he met and married his late wife, Barbara, becoming the father of her two young children. 

They moved to Murrells Inlet in 1973. Jimmy started his electrical business, and Barbara opened The Sandwich Castle in Garden City.

Mr. Motley did sewer treatment work for Grand Strand Water and Sewer and was widely known as the best electrician around. He was always on call to help someone in need.

An active member and director of the Omar Vettes Shriner Unit, he could often be seen driving a miniature Corvette in holiday parades throughout the Lowcountry. He was especially proud of his fundraising work for Shriners’ Hospitals across the U.S. and, on several occasions, visited the hospitals in Greenville and Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Mr. Motley was known for his easygoing personality, his generosity, and his ready smile. He loved to laugh and tell his friends a story, a joke, or a “southern saying” and there were many in his repertoire. He and Barbara were both hard-working, but they loved to socialize with friends, dance and travel. His favorite times were those shared with his family.

He is survived by his brothers, Fred and Mason Motley of Columbia; his daughter, Pamela Talbert (Rhett), and his son, Jimmy Motley Jr. (Charlene), of Murrells Inlet; his grandchildren, Christiane Mills, Kira Shipley (Bill), Jason Motley and Jacob Motley (Brianne), Chet Floyd and Caroline Floyd, Callie and Katie Talbert, and Ansel Talbert (Englund) and Andrew Talbert (Bethany); and his great-grandchildren, Addie, Afton, Angus, Aran, Arana, Casper, Clover, Forrest, Hadley, James, Jessa, Kingsley, Langston, Riley, and Saiorse.

The family will receive visitors at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church  at 10 a.m. Saturday with a memorial service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. 

Memorials may be made to to the Greenville  Shriners’ Children’s Hospital at lovetotherescue.org.

Aaron H. Efird, 68, left charter business for family textile firm

April 3, 2022

Aaron Hardwick Efird of DeBordieu, who ran a charter boat business before becoming a manager of his family’s textile company, died Sunday. He was 68.

He was born Jan. 12, 1954, in Charlotte, the son of Catharine “Kitty” Hardwick Efird Johnston and Hugh Martin Efird. Aaron described himself as being a “terror” of the Myers Park neighborhood, throwing water balloons at cars on Providence Road from tree houses. 

He attended Charlotte Country Day School and the Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va. He was captain of the wrestling team and was defeated only once during his high school career. He also played football, and rumor had it he once tackled an opponent so hard that he split the football. 

He received a wrestling scholarship to the College of William & Mary, but declined the offer rather than shave his highly coveted beard. He earned a bachelor’s degree in geology and a minor in art history from William & Mary, then moved to Polkton, N.C., to work for his father at Polkton Manufacturing Co., a textile firm.

Since 1962, he had spent all of his summers at Litchfield Beach, and in 1978 Mr. Efird moved there to realize his dream. He  started a scuba diving and fishing charter business called Waterproof Charters / Submariner Inc. with his best friend, Alex Salley. He channeled his love of wrestling and football into diving, deep-sea fishing, swimming and surfing. 

It was there he met his future wife,  Lenora Ann “Len” Carson. They were married on Sept. 8, 1979, at the Church of the Nativity in Union. 

In 1987, the family business needed Mr. Efird at the helm. He returned to Charlotte and eventually became vice president of sales at Polkton Manufacturing. At one time, he managed three cutting and sewing plants from North Carolina to Oklahoma, supplying the Navy’s work wear uniforms worldwide. He cared deeply for the hundreds of people who worked with him to make Polkton Manufacturing a success. 

He retired after a 32-year career at Polkton Manufacturing and settled in DeBordieu.

Mr. Efird was remembered as a passionate man, full of life and appreciation for nature and the ocean. He was so happy to continue deep sea fishing and boating on a daily basis into retirement. He did many good deeds for others and wanted no recognition for them. He loved his family above all else and worked hard to provide a wonderful life for them as a hands-on dad.

In addition to his wife of 42 years, he is survived by his daughters, Catharine Carson Efird (Joseph Ross Westerlund) of Chapel Hill, N.C., and Bonnie Elizabeth Efird (Jonathan James Cooke) of Santa Monica, Calif.; his sister, Ellen Efird Gould of Spartanburg; his brother, Hugh Martin Efird Jr. of Aiken; his nieces, Katie Gould Butler, Lauren Gould Ward (Bestor), Elizabeth Gould and Carrie Gould; his brothers-in-law, Trey Carson (Anita Carson) of Alexandria, Va., Ty Carson (Nancy Carson) of Lewisville, N.C., and Kit Shelton (Chad Shelton) of West Columbia; his nephews, Forthe Carson (Megan), Ryne Carson, Chase Shelton; and his nieces, Caroline Shelton and Lindy Goodnow (Will). 

A memorial service will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. at Prince George Winyah Church with a reception to follow in the parish hall. 

Memorials may be made to Prince George Winyah Church, the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the Surfrider Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Condolences may be sent at ridgewayfh.com.

Donna L. Schroer, 94, worked 30 years in real estate

April 1, 2022

Donna Louise Schroer of Pawleys Island died April 1 in Murrells Inlet. She was 94.

She was born Donna Louise Evans on April 21, 1927, in Butte, Mont., where she grew up and attended Girls Central Catholic High School, Class of 1946. Her parents were from hard-rock mining families – her father a Welsh Protestant and her mother a devout Irish Catholic.

She married Charles Allo Schroer on Sept. 3, 1949, and followed his career path across seven states while raising seven children. Mrs. Schroer then started her own successful career selling real estate for Pawleys Island Realty and retired after 30 years at the age of 85. Like her father, Reuben, she enjoyed a good party, and like her mother, Margaret, she was devoted to her faith.

Mrs. Schroer was a founding member of Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church. She served as a eucharistic minister and worked with Birthright in Georgetown.  She loved her faith, family and friends.

She is survived by her five sons, Mark (Betsy), Mike (Patricia), Joe, John (Sonya) and Jim (Helen), and two daughters, Lee Ann and Jean (Winfred); seven grandchildren and six-great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, her brother, Larry, died before her.

Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Mayer -Ethridge Funeral Home. 

A funeral service will be held June 11 at 11 a.m. at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church.

Memorials may be made to Father Pat’s Kitchen, 1633 Waverly Rd., Pawleys Island, SC 29585.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Hubert L. Shuler Jr., 99, bomber pilot in World War II

March 29, 2022

Hubert Lamar Shuler Jr. died March 29 at Veteran Village in Florence. He was 99.

Mr. Shuler was the son of Hubert Lamar Shuler Sr. and Eloise Hipp Shuler of Orangeburg. As a young man, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout prior to graduating from Orangeburg High School. He attended Clemson College before enlisting in the Army Air Corps. He was stationed in the Pacific during World War II as a B-29 bomber pilot. 

After the war, he returned to Orangeburg and managed the family’s feed and seed store, Shuler & Smoak, before pursuing a career in real estate. 

Mr. Shuler married the late Sara Ione Tillotson of Hartsville  in 1953. They spent 56 wonderful years together, raising their family, vacationing at the beach and traveling the world.

Mr. Shuler was a charter member of St. Andrews United Methodist Church and a member of the Rotary Club of Orangeburg. A lover of wildlife and the outdoors, he enjoyed spending his time deep sea fishing, sailing, golfing, bird watching, and gardening. 

Pa to his grandchildren, Mr. Shuler spent his golden years at his beach house at DeBordieu. He cherished the memories made with family and friends, especially around the dinner table in the house he was instrumental in building and that he lovingly maintained over the years.

He is survived by his two sons, Hubert L. “Bert” Shuler III (Julianne) of Orangeburg and Edwin Tillotson “Eddie” Shuler of Charlotte; six grandchildren, Hubert L. Shuler IV (Elizabeth), Elizabeth Shuler Wood (Aaron), Andrew Dean Shuler (Natalie), William Douglas Clary, Hampton Shuler Clary and Caroline Clary Menges (Caleb); and two great-grandchildren.

His daughter, Lynn Shuler Clary, died before him.

His family thanked the staff of Prince George Healthcare Center in Georgetown and Veteran Village for their kindness and care.

A graveside service was held April 1 at Sunnyside Cemetery in Orangeburg.

Memorials may be made to St. Andrews United Methodist Church, 1980 Columbia Rd., Orangeburg, S.C. 29115 or Veteran Village State Veterans Home, 1200 E. National Cemetery Rd., Florence, SC 29506.

Condolences may be sent at dukesharleyfuneralhome.com.

Judith G. Cain, 78, artist worked in furniture industry

March 27, 2022

Judith Gail Dowdy Cain  of Heritage Plantation died March 27 in Kernersville, N.C., where she was visiting family. She was 78.

She was born May 4, 1943, in Guilford County, N.C., the daughter of Lindo C. Dowdy and Vila Catherine Spivey Dowdy. 

She graduated from Ragsdale High School and attended High Point University and Ringling College of Art and Design.  She was a talented artist and designer.  Her talent was utilized professionally in the furniture industry for many years, but what brought her the most joy was the paintings and drawings she gave to her family and friends. 

Mrs. Cain was the life of the party and loved her family and friends. 

She was eager to invest in others with her words and deeds.

She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Charles Cain; her son, Brian Kluttz of Pawleys Island; her daughters, Ande Lowe of Concord, N.C., and Erin Ritchie (Mike) of Kernersville; and her grandchildren, Maddie Lowe, Matthew Ritchie, Jackson Lowe and Laura Ritchie. She was blessed with more family when she married:  Ravelle and Rob Whitener, Kelly and Janice Cain, Robert and Serena Whitener, Adam and Carly Whitener, Tyler and Elizabeth Cain and Caroline and Palmer Rafferty and three great-grandchildren. 

Her brother, Charles Dowdy, died before her.

A memorial service will be held on Friday at 1:45 p.m. at Covenant Church United Methodist in High Point, N.C. The family will receive guests at 1 p.m.

Memorials may be sent to the Smith Mountain Arts Council, P.O. Box 70, Moneta, VA 24121.

Condolences may be sent at cumbyfuneral.com.

David W. Rudolph, 82, lover of antique clocks

March 22, 2022

David W. Rudolph of Hagley Estates died March 22 at his home. He was 82.

He was born March 12, 1940, in West Chester, Pa. He served in the Air Force as an aircraft engine specialist.

Mr. Rudolph owned several auto repair shops in West Chester and worked at dealerships as a warrant administrator. 

A neighbor in Pennsylvania introduced him to clock repairs. After retiring to Pawleys Island, he started Rudolph’s  Antique Clocks, both repairing and collecting them.

He is survived by his wife, Gerri; his son, Randy, of Pawleys Island; and several nieces and nephews.

His brother, Howard Rudolph, died before him.

Services will be private.

Celie Travis, 74, active in All Saints Church

March 21, 2022

Cecelia Burns Travis of DeBordieu died March 21 at her home with her children by her side. She was 74.

Known as Celie, she was born March 15, 1945 and Celie grew up in Copperhill, Tenn.  In high school, she had the wonderful opportunity to live with her older sister and her family in Nashville, and attend Harpeth Hall.  

Abounding in courage and adventure, Celie later opted to spend her senior year of high school at a new school in New Jersey, in order to be with her mother and father before heading off to college. She loved her four years at Mary Baldwin College and made many lifelong friends.  She then moved to Atlanta, where she and her Mary Baldwin friends enjoyed living in Colonial Homes. 

In 1969, Celie married Mike Travis, and together they raised two children. Due to his career, the family moved often, but Mrs. Travis worked hard to establish a loving home and acclimate the kids into their new environment.  The family settled in Atlanta for two decades.  There, Mrs. Travis delighted in the kids’ activities, walked with neighborhood friends, enjoyed Friday night family dinners at U.S. Bar & Grill, and spent time with family on the lake.  She later served as a teacher at Brown Elementary School while raising two teenagers. 

In 1998, the couple moved to DeBordieu. Mrs. Travis served on the board of Good Friends, worked with Ruby’s Kids and participated in the Garden Club.  She was a very active member of All Saints Church, where she  served as a Bible study leader and served for more than a decade as a member of the Altar Guild.  She also brought communion to church members’ homes when they were unwell and could not attend church.   

Mrs. Travis enjoyed long lunches, book clubs, exercise classes  and wine gatherings with her friends.  She worked hard to make each holiday and family gathering special for her grandchildren, hosting “Gran Camps” with the week’s agenda especially suited to each grandchild. 

She faced her illness in typical “Celie fashion,” with courage, strength and a concern for others.

She is survived by her children, Hallie (Kipp) and Britt; her four grandchildren,  Caroline and Harrison Banker of Charlotte, and Rankin and Burns Travis of Charleston; her sister, Betty Davies (Ed); her nephews and their families in Tennessee; and her best friend of 50 years, Natalie Moore.

A memorial service will be scheduled at All Saints Church.   

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Amedisys Foundation, 402 Singleton Ridge Rd., Suite C, Conway, SC 29526.

There is a guest book at mayerfuneralhome.com.

Judy O’Donovan, 63, treasurer for All4Paws

March 20, 2022

Judith Ray O’Donovan of Heritage Plantation died March 20 with her mother and three sisters at her bedside after waging a valiant battle with COVID and pre-existing lung conditions. She was 63.

Known as Judy, she was born June 11, 1958, in Painesville, Ohio, the daughter of Raymond O’Donovan and Louise Tingle O’Donovan. The second oldest of five siblings, she was feisty with dark curly hair and blue eyes. In grade school, she played sports and sang in the chorus. Judy was fiercely independent and loved animals “perhaps more than people,” one work associate said.

Professionally, Ms. O’Donovan worked in a business and accounting capacity. For at least two decades, she was employed by Tom Adamson Plumbing Contractors of Chicago,  overseeing accounts, union agreements, as well as coordinating a network of plumbers to major construction sites in the city.

She remodeled her Countryside, Ill., home herself, with the help of her husband Bruce Kulpit. In 2016, they retired to Pawleys Island.

Ms. O’Donovan made dozens of friends. Neighbors enjoyed seeing her walk her two dogs, Maggie and Zoe. Her love of animals continued with her volunteer work at the All4Paws Animal Rescue, where she served as treasurer.

A longtime vegetarian, she was environmentally conscious, having purchased one of the first Toyota Priuses to roll off the assembly line. She loved her backyard birds and squirrels and tending to her garden. 

Her musical tastes were wide-ranging, and she enjoyed going to concerts, including the Lollapalooza at Grant Park in Chicago. 

Once she accompanied her nephew Collin to a Nine Inch Nails concert.

She loved to golf with her husband until her physical limitations, brought on by rheumatoid arthritis, prevented her from being as active.

In addition to her husband and her mother,  of Plainfield, Ill., she is survived by her sisters, Cheryl O’Donovan Urbanik of Schaumburg, Ill., Lisa O’Donovan of Naperville, Ill., and Susan O’Donovan of Plainfield; her niece, Samantha; her nephews, Collin, Andrew, Matthew, Ryan, Justin and Daniel; and her half-sister, Raylene Foster of Rockford, Mich.

In addition to her father,  her brother, Raymond O’Donovan Jr., died before her.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date, likely at the Heritage Plantation clubhouse. Contact her mother at 630-816-9866 for details.

Condolences can be sent at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

Jean A. Hamilton, 92, co-owner of car dealership

March 14, 2022

Jean A. Hamilton, 92, of Huntington, W.Va, and Chesapeake, Ohio, died March 14. She was 92.

She was born Sept. 12, 1929, in Butler Pa., the daughter of Robert J. Atkinson and Alberta Kepler Atkinson. She graduated from Bethany College and earned a master’s degree in psychology from Marshall University.

She was married to the late James L. Hamilton. They owned Hamilton Chevrolet.

Mrs. Hamilton was active in her community. She served as past president of the Junior League of Huntington, past president of the Junior League Garden Club, board member of the Huntington Symphony and the United Way as well as a member of the Ivy Dance Club. 

The Hamiltons loved to travel and especially liked sailing in the Caribbean and on the Ohio River. They were avid Marshall fans, and their tailgate parties were widely enjoyed. Mrs. Hamilton also entertained with Kentucky Derby parties and Christmas dinners. She and her “Wine Ladies” were well known around the town. 

Jean was devoted to her church, Trinity Episcopal, and served on the altar board. 

She is survived by her daughter Sarah Marshall Zimmerman (Steve) of Pawleys Island; her sons, Bobby Marshall (Sandy) of Huntington and Eddie Marshall (Renee) of Proctorville, Ohio: six grandchildren, Katie Mills (William), Allie Marshall, Emma Marshall, Ginny Marshall, Kristin Marshall and Will Marshall; two great-grandchildren, Marshall Mills and Vivian Mills; and her niece, Carol Kirkland (Don) of Philadelphia. 

In addition to her husband, her sister, Helen, died before her.

Services were  held March 19 at Trinity Episcopal Church by the Rev. James H. Morgan. Memorials may be made to the church, 520 Eleventh St., Huntington, WV 25701. 

Condolences may be sent at klingelcarpenter.com.

James G. Barnett, 61, contractor who ‘lived on vacation’

March 12, 2022

James G. Barnett died March 12 after a courageous battle with cancer.  He was 61.

He was born May 27, 1960, in Philadelphia, the son of Donald and Nancy Barnett. He attended Jenkintown High School, Bloomsburg University and Temple University.

Mr. Barnett married  his Mary Jane on June 1, 1991, at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia. His love for golf, and the couple’s mutual love for the shore, led them to Myrtle Beach. Soon the family settled down in North Litchfield. 

He liked to say the Barnett family lived on vacation. Sunday afternoons from May to August, you could count on finding him at the beach, good book in one hand and cold beer in the other, surrounded by his girls.

Mr. Barnett was a contractor by trade. He and his wife founded Barnett Services, and he built a reputation as a skilled worker and a good man. He took pride in the work that he did and brought enthusiasm and creativity to his projects. He was trusted, respected and loved by his clients and all who he had working relationships with. He loved them, too.

To his three daughters, he was their hero, best friend, confidante, teacher, shoulder to cry on and biggest fan. He was there with the biggest smile and loudest cheer at soccer games, chorus concerts, track and cross country meets, school plays, graduations, swearing-in and white coat ceremonies. He was also present for the rejections, losses, and lows. He made them smile every single day, his family said.

The Barnetts celebrated their 30th anniversary last June with a trip to a Philadelphia Eagles game. They themselves were a dream team, as parents, business owners and a couple.  

 Mr. Barnett was remembered as gentle and kind. He was, known for his one-liners and expressive eyebrows. He was a great storyteller who was strong in every sense. 

He was a member of the Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church Catholic Church, where he served as a lector, usher, sacristan and member of the Knights of Columbus. He was never an official member of the choir, but was nonetheless often the loudest singer from the pews. 

He loved golf, warm weather, the Philadelphia Eagles, ice cream, sitting in his spot in the corner of the couch watching TV, shooting hoops, and taking the   family dog, Audrey, to the beach.

Mr. Barnett faced an advanced cancer diagnosis with bravery and strength. He fought hard until the very end. He spent his final days, hours and moments surrounded by those he loved most.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Caroline (Jonathan), Grace (Lucas) and Jamie; his brothers, Leon and Bill (Jenny); his sisters, Ann Marie, Grace (Dan), Donna  and Mary Agnes (Nicholas); his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Herb, John, Helen (John), Sheila; and his nieces and nephews, Megan, Anna, Sophia, Luke, Ellie, Kelly, Molly, Olivia, Louis, Mathis, Michael, Christopher, Stephen, Mark, Colin, Caitlyn, Tracey and Kelly. 

In addition to his parents, two brothers, Ted and John, and a nephew, Reilly, died before him. 

A celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m. today at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church with a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Inurnment will be held at the church columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Father Pat’s Lunch Kitchen.

There is a guest book at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

Charlotte H. Johanson, 89, an avid reader who taught others

March 10, 2022

Charlotte H. Johanson of Murrells Inlet died Feb. 28 surrounded by her family. She was 89.

She was born June 4, 1932, in Melrose, Mass., the daughter of  Charles G. and Mabel G. Foster  Lindberg. 

In June 1953, she married Arnold Erhard Johanson. They were married for 59 years until his death in 2012. They lived in Melrose for 39 years and raised a family of five children. 

During those years, they spent many summers at their camp, Any Isle, in Canterbury, N.H. In 1994, they retired and moved to Myrtle Beach. 

Mrs. Johanson was an avid reader who volunteered for the Horry County Literacy Council and found great joy in teaching reading skills to others. She was a talented painter, and she also enjoyed knitting, doing puzzles and playing bridge. 

She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Myrtle Beach for many years. Later, she became a member of Christ Church in Murrells Inlet.

Her family said her greatest happiness came from watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. 

She is survived by her children, Lisa Paul (Leo) of Hingham, Mass., Stephen Johanson (Donna) of Melrose, John Johanson (Barbara) of Wakefield, Mass., Neil Johanson (Marybeth) of Murrells Inlet and Ingrid Jablonski (Kevin) of Reading, Mass.; her sister-in-law, Alice Johanson of Stoneham, Mass.; 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Church at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church, 310 Prince Creek Parkway, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.

Erik L. Hollenbaugh, 40, mental health worker

March 10, 2022

Erik Lee Hollenbaugh of Denver died Nov. 24. He was 40.

He was born Oct. 20, 1981, in Georgetown, the son of  Ronnie and Delores Hollenbaugh. 

He graduated from Georgetown High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice at the University of South Carolina. He received a graduate degree in drug and addiction studies at USC before earning a master’s degree in criminal justice at the University of Colorado.

He worked as a mental health professional and social worker for MRO and received awards from the Army Medical Department and Activity Army Substance Abuse programs.

Mr. Hollenbaugh was remembered as a kind, compassionate and caring soul who touched many people’s lives both professionally and personally.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his brothers, Kyle L. Hollenbaugh (Austin) and Ian B. Hollenbaugh; uncles and aunts, Danny and Kim Eaddy, Albert and Nudang Eaddy, Willonette Steed, and Randy and Myra Hollenbaugh; and many cousins and friends. 

His grandparents, Capers W. and Mary L. Eaddy and Blair and Edith Hollenbaugh, and his godmother, Ann Hanna, died before him.

A memorial service will be held  March 19 at 2 p.m. at Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel.

Memorials may be made  to the Tidelands Health Foundation at tidelandshealth.org.

There is a guestbook at goldfinchfuneralhome.com.

Daniel L. Webb, 69, retired university police officer

March 10, 2022

Daniel Lee Webb of Hagley Estates died March 1 at the Lakes at Litchfield. He was 69.

He was born July 25, 1952, in Chicago. He spent the first years of his life in Chittenango, N.Y., but his father’s job moved him to the West Indies where he spent two years. 

He and his family moved back to Chittenango, where he quickly was given the nickname of Chico because nobody could figure out where he was from.  Chico quickly became a term of endearment and the nickname stuck with him for the rest of his life.

Dan graduated from Norwich University and joined the Army.  He was commissioned a lieutenant in the infantry and after officer basic course was off to Korea where he served 15 months.  

He moved to Fort Bragg where he decided to serve in the Special Forces and performed many different jobs.  His dedication and commitment guided him to success.  He completed his Army service after 12 years with  the rank of major. 

Mr. Webb moved back to Chittenango, where he served as a safety patrol officer at the State University of New York’s College of Environmental Science and Forestry.  

Again, his dedication and commitment propelled him to the rank of lieutenant. He served 22 years with the university police.

Mr. Webb retired and moved his family to Pawleys Island.  He stayed engaged in the community and church.  

He liked staying in touch with his military roots and joined the local American Legion.  

As part of the legion, he volunteered his time at nearby nursing and assisted living homes.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen Webb; his son, John Webb of Greenville; his other children, Patrick Taylor (Terry) of Germany, Michael Taylor of Traverse City, Mich., Alexander Taylor (Andrea) of Southern Pines, N.C., and Yvonne Taylor (Paul Heisey) of Simpsonville; eight grandchildren, Clark Taylor, Rose Taylor, Carly Taylor, Matthew Taylor, Benjamin Taylor, Cooper Taylor, Camden Taylor and Reagan Heisey; a great-granddaughter, Isla Rickman; and his sister, Jacalyn Healy of Syracuse, N.Y.

A graveside service was held Saturday in the Pennyroyal Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. 

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

Condolences may be send at ridgewayfh.com.

William T. Jackson, 75, ‘peddler’ who sold textile equipment

March 9, 2022

William Thomas Jackson of Litchfield Country Club died March 9. He was 75.

Born Aug. 21, 1946, he was a long-time resident of York County. He  graduated from York High School, where he was an accomplished athlete in football and track. It was in high school that he met Pam Mabry, whom he wooed and later married.

Bill graduated from Clemson University with a degree in textile engineering.  He was a member of Phi Kappa Delta (now Kappa Alpha) fraternity. After he and Pam married, he honored his advanced ROTC commitment and served as a second lieutenant in Vietnam leading a mortar platoon. He recently said he told his men he had two primary objectives: to get himself and all of them back home safely.  He accomplished this goal.

Mr. Jackson returned to York and began his career as what he called a “peddler.” He sold textile machinery parts and he and Pam would later own Improved Services Inc. in Clover.

Together they fulfilled Pam’s dream of breeding, raising, showing and selling Friesian horses by establishing Shady Nook Farm on land that once belonged to his grandfather and uncle. The house they moved in to and remodeled was the first house his grandparents owned. This business was a success with the horses winning many ribbons and grand championships until Pam’s untimely death in 2008.  

Mr. Jackson carried on the business for several more years until deciding to close it, sell the property and relocate to the Pawleys Island area.

Once established at the beach, he became known as Jackson.  He had enjoyed boating since his youth and spent many hours on Lake Wylie and later exploring the Waccamaw and Black rivers.  At the beach, he made many friends and enjoyed socializing at Moe’s where his friends gathered to celebrate his 75th birthday.

Mr. Jackson said he had no filters. He did not suffer fools but was faithful, loved and enjoyed his friends. He had a strong faith and truly loved the Lord.

He is survived by his son, William Neil Jackson; two grandchildren, Ladd and Carleigh Jackson; his sister Jane Jackson Finch (Jim); his mother-in-law, Phyllis Mabry; and in-laws Brent Mabry and Laura Mabry Kiser and their families.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

John W. O’Neal, 83, West Point grad taught at academy

March 7, 2022

John William O’Neal of Pawleys Plantation, a West Point graduate who returned to the military academy to teach during a 20-year Army career, died March 7 at the hospital in Mount Pleasant. He was 83.

He was born Oct. 5, 1938, in Chattanooga, Tenn., the son of Gordon R. and Hazel Williams O’Neal.  He grew up at the foot of Lookout Mountain. He graduated from Chattanooga’s City High School, where he was crowned May King and was named Best All-Around Boy by the Class of 1956.  John was appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and graduated with a degree in engineering in 1962.  He earned a master’s degree in English in 1971 from the University of Pennsylvania.

As an Army Airborne Ranger, Mr. O’Neal served tours in Aschaffenburg, Germany, and two tours in Vietnam, where he was awarded two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Air Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.

After Vietnam and tours at Fort Benning, Ga., and Fort Dix, N.J., Mr. O’Neal returned to West Point to serve as an instructor and assistant professor of English from 1971 to 1974.  He was then assigned to Fort Leavenworth, Kan., to attend the Army Command and General Staff College, graduating in 1975.  This was followed by tours to the Republic of Korea, where he served in the demilitarized zone, and the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala.  

Mr. O’Neal finished his 20-year Army career with the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon. He retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel in 1982 to pursue a successful career in the private sector.

Mr. O’Neal had many loves including movies and music from all decades.  He was particularly fond of KC & the Sunshine Band, ABBA, Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family”, all the James Bond film scores and many other musical genres.   Following a demanding day at the office, he could often be found relaxing with a good cigar or his favorite pipe while sipping a Beefeater Gibson.  He and his  wife enjoyed entertaining and cooking as members of a gourmet dinner club while residing in Centreville, Va.  

Mr. O’Neal was an accomplished writer and a gifted storyteller.  His greatest joys were spending time with his family, friends, retired military classmates, commanding the grill and cooking his steaks to medium-rare perfection while reminiscing of a life well lived.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Terry Shackleford O’Neal; his children, John W. O’Neal II (Lisa) of Peoria, Ariz., Rebecca A. O’Neal of Ringgold, Ga., Gordon V. “Van” O’Neal (Madeline) of Bristow, Va., and Matthew A. O’Neal of Charles Town, W.Va.; his stepchildren, Tracy C. Summer (Michael) of Georgetown, Christopher D. Conner  (Kaley) of Boone, N.C., and Heather C. Cole (Carper) of Pawleys Island; his grandchildren, Gracie and Garrett O’Neal, Jack and Ben O’Neal, Conner (Mary Kathryn) and Caroline Summer, Kendall C. (Mat) Moretz; Reed, Barrett and Tucker Conner, David C. “Buck” Cole, and Justin King and Bailey Rogers; his great-grandchildren, Madyson and Noble Moretz; his siblings, Michael O’Neal (Miriam) and Susie O’Neal Strohmeyer; his nieces, Anne O’Neal Jaeger and Tracy Land-Belknap; and his nephews, Tim and Eric Crooks and Jay C. Land.

His in-laws, Leota Meyers and Tom Shackleford, and nephew, Michael Creighton O’Neal, died before him.

A celebration of his life will be held at 3 p.m. Friday at Burroughs Funeral Home.

Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to  Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org).

Condolences may be sent at burroughsfh.com.