Obituaries

Lee Co. sheriff hires full time attorney to handle media calls - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |

2012-01-18T07:44:00.000-05:00

Editors Opinion: To the good people of Lee County.... Your embarrassment and pain is not going unnoticed. It would not be surprising if some official survey on the reasons why Lee County is so economically depressed showed that inept leadership throughout the county over the last half century IS the NUMBER ONE reason why the smartest of our young minds are leaving. One only has to look around... there is nothing to keep them home. If the mindset of only electing the most popular candidate regardless of qualification continues, it becomes only a matter of time before you roll up the side walks and board those few windows that are remaining. It is no wonder industry leaders shiver when they see what Lee County has to offer.

Lee Co. sheriff hires full time attorney to handle media calls - WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina |: "Last week, new information led WIS to file a Freedom of Information Act request with Simon, requesting McDuffie's personnel files, as well as copies of "all Lee County Sheriff's Office's ethical and moral policies and memorandums, as well as the names of the deputies who have signed the documents."

The day after the WIS open records requests, McDuffie resigned, according to Johnson. Neither Johnson nor Simon would comment on the specific reasons when contacted Tuesday. "I have no comment at this time," said Simon. "I have an attorney on staff. Charlie will get back to you on that.""

'via Blog this'

Bishopville - Carroll Snead

2012-01-16T09:24:00.001-05:00

Bishopville, S.C.
Bishopville, S.C.
Carroll Snead passed away January 16 at Kershaw Medical Center. Funeral plans will be announced by Norton Funeral Home.y January 16 at Kershaw Medical Center. Funeral plans will be announced by Norton Funeral Home.Bishopville, S.C.
Carroll Snead passed away January 16 at Kershaw Medical Center. Funeral plans will be announced by Norton Funeral Home.

Charles Clifton Farmer - Wednesday, January 4, 2012

2012-01-09T10:30:00.001-05:00

Bishopville, SC

Charles Clifton Farmer, 61, died Wednesday, January 4, 2012, in Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Sumter County, he was a son of George Clifton Farmer and the late Daisy Godwin Farmer. Mr. Farmer was self-employed, having owned a restaurant, country store, produce stand and fireworks stand.

One of his greatest joys was selling watermelon, cantaloupe, and fireworks for the Fourth of July. He was a member of the Woodmen of the World and Cedar Creek Baptist Church.

Survivors include his father; a sister, Ruth F. Caples; a nephew, Ryan C. Caples (Kimberly Bazen Caples); and a great-nephew, Dean Clifton Caples.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in the Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Don Riner officiating. Burial will be in Bethlehem United Methodist Church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at the home, 925 Camden Hwy.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in The State on January 6, 2012

Shirley Sylvester Reynolds - Friday, December 30, 2011

2012-01-01T09:50:00.001-05:00

Bishopville, S.C.

Funeral services for Shirley Sylvester Reynolds, age 77, who passed away December 30, will be held Monday at 3:00 at the Chapel Norton Funeral Home. Rev. Arlin Kirkland will officiate. Burial will be in the Wayside Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday 3-5 pm at the Funeral Home. Mrs. Reynolds was born in Sandpoint, Idaho, a daughter of the late Eugene Vernon Sylvester & Louise Kiser Branham. She worked at Piggly Wiggly in Bishopville for several years and was a member of Wayside Baptist Church. Surviving are one son, Ronnie Mike (Robyn) Reynolds, Bishopville; four daughters, Sherry (Ernie) Watson, Bishopville, Denise Watkins, Camden, Ann (Charles) Cunliffe, North Charleston, Sandy (Wayne Gough) Moore, Hartsville; 13 Grandchildren; 28 Great Grandchildren; four brothers, Gene (Sara) Sylvester, Florence, Don (Lib) Sylvester, Hartsville, Walt (Judy) Sylvester, Bishopville, Marvin (Jean) Sylvester, Eureka Springs, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronnie W. Reynolds and a son- in- law, Wade Watkins. Memorials may be made to the McLeod Hospice, 555 East Cheves St., Florence, S.C. 29506. www.nortonfh.net

Reverend F. Leon Johnson - Thursday, December 29, 2011

2011-12-31T12:28:00.000-05:00

GREENVILLE - The Reverend F. Leon Johnson, 86, husband of Louise Flowers Johnson, died Thursday, December 29, 2011.Born in Lee County, SC, he was the son of the late John Marion and Annie Mayes Smith Johnson.Rev. Johnson was a minister for the South Carolina Baptist Convention, serving in South Carolina and Mississippi and was retired Director of Missions for the North Greenville Baptist Association. He was a charter member of the Minister's Scholarship Fund at North Greenville University where he was a past trustee.He was a member of Berea First Baptist Church and was a teacher of the Bill Julian Men's Sunday School Class.Surviving are two daughters, Carolyn Coats and husband Dewey of W. Columbia, Elaine Styles and husband Kevin of Greenville; five grandchildren, Angie Byrd and husband Robb, Dustin Coats and wife Zane, Shelley, Sherilyn and Stefan Styles; five great grandchildren, Abbey Grace and Tradd Byrd; Gavin, Jack, and Sara Margaret Coats. He was preceded in death by daughter, Dorothy A. Johnson Copeland; 5 brothers and 3 sisters.The family would like to thank a special friend, Sharon Naples.Memorials may be made to Berea First Baptist Church, 529 Farrs Bridge Road, Greenville, SC 29611 or North Greenville University, 7801 N. Tigerville Rd., Tigerville, SC 29688.Visitation will be held Sunday, January 1, 2012 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Downtown, 639 N. Main St. The funeral service will be held Monday, January 2, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Berea First Baptist Church. Burial will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park.The family will be at the residence.Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.thomasmcafee.com.

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary-browse.aspx?recentdate=0&type=1#storylink=cpy

Luther "Luke" Marion Davis Sr. - Thursday, December 15, 2011

2011-12-17T10:46:00.001-05:00

Luther Marion Davis Sr., 70, husband of Ruth Ann Jacobs Davis, died Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011, at his home.

Born in Sumter, he was a son of the late Clarence Birchmore Davis Sr. and Azilea Napper Davis. Mr. Davis was a member of Southside Baptist Church and Sumter Masonic Lodge No. 364 AFM. He was also a U.S. Army veteran.

Surviving are his wife of Sumter; two sons, Luther "Bubba" Davis Jr. and William Eugene "Billy" Davis, both of Sumter; one daughter, Mary Glenn "Cissy" Christmas of Sumter; three brothers, Clarence Davis Jr. of Sumter, Bruce Davis of Alabama and Billy Davis of Wyoming; one sister, Sylvia Rowan of Washington; and four grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery with Masonic rites.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. today at Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the S.C. Wildlife Federation, 215 Pickens St., Columbia, SC 29205.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

Jean "Jeannie" Huggins Alexander - Thursday, December 8, 2011

2011-12-11T10:54:00.001-05:00

BISHOPVILLE - Jean "Jeannie" Huggins Alexander, 84, wife of the late Boyd M. Alexander Sr., died on Thursday, December 8, 2011. She was a daughter of the late Liston and Marie Hancock Huggins.

She was a lifelong resident of Bishopville, SC, and had been employed for 40 years with the Lee County Sheriff's Department. Very civic-minded, she recently received her 50-year pin with the Pilot Club and had just celebrated 43 years of perfect attendance. She was a charter member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Bishopville Chapter 74. As well, she was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

For most of her adult life, her membership had been at Bethlehem United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Constance Herbert Sunday School Class and was active in the Eva Woodham Circle.

Jeannie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She loved her family, and her family loved her deeply. She lived her life caring for others. She was sensitive, without a doubt, to people of all ages and color.

She is survived by three sons, Mike Alexander (Betsy) of Murrells Inlet, SC, Wiley Alexander (DeLois) of Hartsville, SC, and Whit Alexander (Beth) of Greenville, SC; six grandchildren, Chad, Abby, Wesley, Sara Kate, Charlotte and Graham; one great-granddaughter, Bryn.

She was predeceased by a sister, Willie Rose Carter, and a grandson, Karl Alexander.

The family will receive friends at Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville, on Saturday, December 10, 2011, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

A funeral service, conducted by the Rev. Henry A. Altman, will be held on Sunday, December 11, 2011, 2:30 p.m. at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Bishopville.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to the Karl E. Alexander Endowed Scholarship Fund, Wofford College, 429 N. Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303.

Steve Hopkins - Sunday, December 4, 2011

2011-12-05T06:29:00.001-05:00

Bishopville, S.C.

Graveside services for Steve Hopkins, age 57, who passed away December 4, will be held Tuesday at 3:00 at the Bethany Cemetery in Turkey Creek directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville.

Visitation will be Tuesday 1:00 -2:30 pm at the Funeral Home.

Steve was born in Bishopville a son of Eugene Hopkins and the late Annie Hopkins.

Surviving are one daughter, Dana Hopkins, Ridgeway, three brothers, Terry Wayne Hopkins, Lamar, Stanley Hopkins, Bishopville, Laverne Hopkins, Hartsville; one sister, Kathy Stephens, Cassatt. www.nortonfh.net

John Frederick "Nuke" Reames, II - Tuesday, November 29, 2011

2011-12-01T08:35:00.001-05:00

John F. Reames II

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BISHOPVIILLE - John F. Reames, II, 85, died Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at the Karesh Wing of Kershaw Health in Camden, S.C.

He is the son of the late Charles Melvin "Shine" Reames, Sr. and Mary Free Reames. Born in Bishopville on August 19, 1926, he was an employee of the DuPont plant in Camden for 36 years. A World War II veteran, he was a member of the Bethlehem United Methodist Church and served as the chairman of its board of trustees and a devout member of the men's Sunday school class. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Gene H. Reames; three sons, Jay (Claudia) of Lugoff, Mark (Gay) of Charlotte, NC, and Gary of Greenville, SC; two grandchildren, Emily and Kevin; and one sister, Sara Dukes of Marion.

He is predeceased by his brother, Charles Melvin Reames, Jr.

Visitation will be held at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home in Bishopville from 5:30 to 7 P.M. Thursday, December 1, 2011. Graveside services will be held at the Bethlehem United Methodist Church cemetery at 3 P.M. on Friday, December 2, 2011 with the Rev. Henry Altman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that memorials be made to the Bethlehem United Methodist Church, PO Box 167, Bishopville, SC 29010.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in The State on December 1, 2011

Warren Burgess Kolb - Sunday, November 20, 2011

2011-11-22T12:44:00.001-05:00

Warren Burgess Kolb, age, 82, beloved husband of Hazel Elizabeth Kolb, died on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2011, at his residence.

Mr. Kolb was born on March 6, 1929, a son of the late Fritz and Olive Kolb. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, having served in the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He retired after 22 years of loyal and dedicated service. He was the owner of Kolb Refrigeration and Air Conditioning and later was a longtime employee and friend of Bullock Funeral Home. He was an avid golfer, fisherman and was a great outdoorsman.

Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons, Robert Warren Kolb and his wife, Cheryl Ann, of Summerville, Patrick Howard Kolb and his wife, Lisa, and Kenneth Alan Kolb and his wife, Michelle, all of Sumter; three daughters, Elizabeth Anne Kolb Tate and Terry Jeanette Kolb, both of Sumter, and Gwendolyn Lee Kolb Josey and her husband, Luther, of St. Charles; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by four brothers, Manning Kolb, Eugene "Jake" Kolb, Lloyd Kolb and Sidney Kolb; and one sister, Doris Kolb Yingling.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday in the Bullock Funeral Home Chapel. Burial with full military honors will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

The children will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Bullock Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 128 Stonemark Lane, Columbia, SC 29210.

You may sign the family's guest book at www.bullockfuneralhome.com.

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter for the arrangements.

Mary Logan Bramlett - Tuesday, November 15, 2011

2011-11-17T07:44:00.001-05:00

Mary Logan Bramlett, 97, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011 surrounded by her loved ones.

Funeral services will be Friday, November 18, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. at Victory Baptist Church in Darlington. Interment will follow in Byrd Cemetery in Timmonsville.

Visitation will be today (Thursday) Nov. 17, 2011 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Layton-Anderson Funeral Home.

Mrs. Bramlett was born in Manning, SC, the daughter of the late Frank and Julia Ivey Logan. She was a member of Victory Baptist Church in Darlington. She was married to the late Roy Bramlett, Sr.

Survivors are three sons, Ernest (Louise) Bramlett, Darlington, Luther( Joyce) Bramlett, Bishopville, Jimmy( Paula) Bramlett, Florence; two daughters, Betty Bramlett Pigate, Aiken, SC, Diann (Glenn) Hatchell, Timmonsville, one sister, Emma (John) Rogers, Florence, sixteen grandchildren, twenty-five great grandchildren and twelve great-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by sons, Roy Bramlett, Jr and Lawson Bramlett,a daughter, Lottie Richardson, a grandchild and 5 great-grandchildren, her brothers, Ed Logan, Lucius Logan, Blank Logan, William Logan and Bud Logan and a sister, Alice Logan.

Memorials may be made to Victory Baptist Church, 633 W. Smith Ave, Darlington, SC 29532. Layton-Anderson Funeral Home, 4210 W. Palmetto St. Florence is assisting

the family with arrangements.

Link

Brandon Cruz Baker - Tuesday, November 1, 2011

2011-11-11T05:45:00.001-05:00

BISHOPVILLE - Brandon Cruz Baker, 23, died Tuesday, November 1, 2011.

Born in Camden, he was a son of Linda Hall Baker and the late James Elvin Baker.

He was a member of Concord United Methodist Church, a 2007 graduate of Robert E. Lee Academy and was employed by Segars Farms in Hartsville.

Survivors include his mother of the home; sisters, Donna Robinson (Tommy) of Turbeville, Amy Baker (Tony) of Bishopville, Jennifer Grantham of Elgin, Crystal Williams (Chris) of Cassatt, Bridgett Taylor (Ricky) of Cassatt, Gretta Baker of Bishopville, and Valerie Baker (Whitney) of Atlanta, GA; a brother, Craig Baker (Staci) of McBee; a number of nieces and nephews; and a lot of special friends.

Funeral service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Concord United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kimberly N. Evans and Mr. Johnny Hewitt officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at 2426 Lucknow Road, Bishopville.

Memorials may be made to the Bishopville Rescue Squad, PO Box 927, Bishopville, SC 29010 or to Concord United Methodist Church, 2144 Stokes Bridge Road West, Bishopville, SC 29010.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Liston Francis Atkinson - Thursday, November 3, 2011

2011-11-11T05:43:00.001-05:00

BISHOPVILLE - Liston Francis Atkinson, 80, husband of the late Carolyn Holloman Atkinson, died Thursday, November 3, 2011, at his home.

Born in Lee County, he was a son of the late Rastus Atkinson and the late Fleta Hancock Atkinson. He was retired from Town and Country Tire Service in Bishopville and was also an active farmer. He served in the US National Guard.

Survivors include two sons, Michael Atkinson (Brenda) and Tony Atkinson (Amy) both of Bishopville; a grandson, Jason Atkinson (Reagan) of Bishopville; a granddaughter, Paige Atkinson of Bishopville; and two great-grandchildren, Lakin and Tyler Atkinson.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Arlin Kirkland officiating. Burial will be in the Calvary Baptist Church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at 913 Calvary Church Road, Bishopville.

Memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice .

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Lou Ann P. Walker - Monday, November 7, 2011

2011-11-11T05:36:00.001-05:00

SUMTER - Lou Ann P. Walker, 64, wife of Robert Murdoch Walker Jr., passed away Monday, November 7, 2011, at the Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Sumter, December 1, 1946, she was a daughter of the late Charles M. Player and the late Charlotte Hart Player Huntington.

Mrs. Walker graduated from Edmunds High School in 1965 and continued her education at the University of South Carolina. She was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter.

Surviving are her husband of Sumter; one son, R.Murdoch Walker, III and wife Keli; one daughter, Dana Walker Terry and husband Max , three grandchildren, Mary Margaret Terry , Doc Walker and Walker Terry; a brother, Monty Player and wife Carey all of Sumter; and a sister, Susan Stoudenmire and husband Joel of Greer.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter with Rev. Dr. John M. Barr and Rev. Marcus Kaiser officiating.

The family will receive friends at a reception following the services in the church Parish Hall and other times at the home, 460 Mallard Drive.

Lou Ann wished to thank all of her friends that have been so helpful to her during her battle with cancer and her husband's battle with ALS. May God bless them all.

Memorials may be made to the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter Building Fund, P. O. Box 338, Sumter, SC 29151.

On-line condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements (803) 775-9386.

Ernest Calvin Cutshaw - Bishopville, SC

2011-11-11T05:32:00.001-05:00

BISHOPVILLE -- Ernest Calvin Cutshaw, the firstborn son of Richard Ellis and Violet Whitehead Cutshaw, was born in the year 1928 in Maryville, Tenn. He was raised in the eastern part of the state and learned the values of hard work and family at a young age. These traits served him well during World War II, Korea, and the Vietnam wars. God, duty, country, and love of family guided his life. Mr. Cutshaw was retired from the U.S. Air Force.

His younger brothers, Bill and Leon; and only sister, Dorothy, preceded him in death.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Frances Lloyd Cutshaw of Bishopville; his three sons, Larry, the eldest, of Honolulu, Hawaii, Leonard of Melbourne, Fla., and Calvin of Auburn, Ala.; three daughters-in-law, Kathy Cutshaw, Diane Cutshaw, and Dr. Mary Boudreaux; eight grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

He lived as a humble servant of man and taught his children, "If it's already broken try to fix it because you can't make it any worse."

Funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Sam Stevens and the Rev. Leonard Cutshaw officiating. Burial with full military honors will be at 9 a.m. Friday in the Florence National Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Bishopville First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 144, Bishopville, SC 29010.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Leslie McLure Davis - Tuesday, November 8, 2011

2011-11-11T05:27:00.001-05:00

BISHOPVILLE - Leslie McLure Davis, 94, husband of the late Ava Brown Davis, died Tuesday, November 8, 2011, in McCoy Memorial Nursing Center.

Born in Lee County, he was a son of the late Robert H. Davis and the late Maggie Watson Davis. Mr. Davis was a member of Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church where he served as pastor for a number of years. He was a U.S. Army veteran.

Survivors include a daughter, Ellen D. Wilson (Harry); a son, Leslie Ben Davis (Shirley); a sister, Alberta Barnes; grandchildren, Pam Gillespie, James Baker, Tony Wilson, Richard Davis and Garth Davis; great-grandchildren, Nikki Wilson, Matthew Baker, Tasha Davis, Hannah Davis and Tony "Little T" Wilson; and great-great-grandchildren, Blake Wilson and Gabrella Wilson.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church with Elders George Paul, Eugene Cuner and Calvin Harward officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

Memorials may be made to the Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Diane Tidwell, 114 Vermont Drive, Sumter, SC 29150.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Agnes H. Johnson - Oct. 20, 2011

2011-10-24T02:50:00.003-04:00

Agnes Harvey Johnson, 89, widow of John W. Johnson, died Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011, at her home.

Born in Olar, she was a daughter of the late W. Shelley Harvey and Leola Jarrell Harvey. Mrs. Johnson was a member of Northside Memorial Baptist Church and a member and past president of several organizations including Birchwood Court No. 1161, Woodmen of the World, the SLC Shrine Club, Gamecock Shrine Club, and Jamil Colorettes. She was also a member of the Arabic Temple No. 1141 and Daughters of the Nile. She was a very ardent volunteer in everything to help support the Shriners Hospital and the Eastern Star Home, where she worked each week for 22 years in the beauty shop for the residents. She was a past matron of Beuclare Chapter No. 20 Order of Eastern Star.

Surviving are one daughter, Carolyn Louise Barkley and husband, William "Buddy" Barkley, of Sumter; one sister, Mildred Hydrick of Cayce; one grandson, Edward Ortego Johnson and wife, Lois Davidson Johnson; two great-granddaughters, Heather Nicole Johnson Fuller and husband, Aaron Fuller, and Sara Elizabeth Murrell and husband, Matt Murrell; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday in the Chapel of Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home with the Rev. Jimmy Holley and the Rev. Jimmy Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

Pallbearers are Rick Johnson, Mike Johnson, Allen Johnson, John Marinko, Ronnie Anderson, Wayne Pipkin, Carl Thames and Wayne Hughes.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday at Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and other times at the home of her daughter, 2919 Forest Lake Drive.

Memorials may be made to Northside Memorial Baptist Church, 1004 N. Main St., Sumter, SC 29153.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

Obituaries from the Past Posted by Special Request

2011-10-24T02:49:00.002-04:00

Posted by special request from David Matuse
dmctm1993@hotmail.com

ANNIE BELL M. FARMER

BISHOPVILLE -- Services for Annie Bell Matuse Farmer, 79, widow of Billy P. Farmer, will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday at First Church of the Nazarene. The Rev. Scott Henry will officiate. Burial will be in the Calvary Baptist Church cemetery, directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville Chapel.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Mrs. Farmer died Friday, April 25, 2008. She was born in Hartsville, a daughter of the late Payton and Martha Webb Matuse.

Surviving are daughters, Shirley (David) Carpenter of Bishopville, Brenda (Jim) Ellis of Collinsville, Ill., and Judy (John) Davis of Bishopville; sons, Ricky (Lisa) Farmer of Ridgeway and Jerry (Jill) Farmer of Bishopville; brother, Payton (Pee Wee) Matuse Jr. of Bishopville; grandchildren, Victoria Helms, Austin Ellis, Julie Jackson, Derek Farmer, Heather Farmer, Justin Farmer, Jerry Farmer Jr. and Crystal Farmer; and great-grandchildren, Landen Farmer, Hailey Short, Jeremy Jackson, Johnathan Jackson, Jacob Jackson, Cody Smith, Branden Smith and Payton Farmer III.
She was predeceased by a son, Billy Farmer Jr.

ELBERT LEE MATUSE
Mr. Elbert Lee Matuse, 51, died Friday, June 20, 2008. Born in Hartsville, SC, he was a son of Mary Lee Euten Matuse and the late Rosier E. Matuse. Brown-Pennington-Atkins is serving the family. Surviving are his mother, of Hartsville, SC; sisters, Elaine Hopkins of Bishopville, SC, Pamela L. Matuse of Hartsville, SC, Lorrie Ann Jordan of Hartsville, SC; brothers, William Carson Edwards of Bishopville, SC, Larry Richard Matuse of Hartsville, SC. He was preceded in death by his sister, Diane Matuse Wilson.

Posted on Fri, Feb. 2, 2007
The State; Columbia, South Carolina
George E. Matuse Sr.

HARTSVILLE — Funeral services for George E. Matuse Sr., 51, who died Feb. 1, 2007, will be Sat. 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Norton Funeral Home. Rev James E. Beck Jr. and Rev. Charles McLendon will officiate. Burial will be in Savannah Advent Christian Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home.

George was born in Bishopville, a son of the late William and Addie Mae Davis Matuse. Surviving are his wife, Cathy Feagin Matuse; daughter, Melissa Matuse Yow; son, George E. Matuse Jr.; brother, Tillman Matuse; sisters, Alice Beasley, Sallie Mumford, all of Hartsville.
Note: He was predeceased by three brothers: Henry Lee Matuse, Sr., Henry Jennings Matuse and William Matuse, Jr.

George Matuse

WILLIAM B. MATUSE
Services for William Bill Matuse, 89, will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, 2001, from the Liberty Hill Baptist Church with the Rev. James E. Beck Jr. officiating. Burial will be in Savannah Advent Christian Church Cemetery, directed by Norton Funeral Home.

Mr. Matuse was born in Lee County and was a member of the Savannah Advent Christian Church.

Surviving are two sons, Tillman and George Matuse of Hartsville; two daughters, Alice Beasley of Hartsville and Sally Mumford of Darlington; 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife, Addie Mae Davis Matuse, and three sons, Henry Jennings Matuse, Henry Lee "Skeeter" Matuse and William Matuse.

Funeral services for Willie James Matuse, 72, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 30, 2004 at Brown-Pennington-Atkins Funeral Home Chapel. The Rev. Marvin Griggs will officiate with burial in Savannah Advent Christian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, October 29, 2004 from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Matuse, widower of Roxie Catherine Matuse, died Wednesday, October 27, 2004. Born in Lee Co., SC, he was a son of the late Payton and Martha Webb Matuse. He was a loving Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather. He loved to fish and enjoyed the race. He was retired from Millikin after 34 years, and served in the army during the Korean War. Surviving are his daughters and sons-in-law, Debra and Harold Byrd of Society Hill, SC, Mickie and Chuck Nymberg of Hartsville, SC; sister, Annie Bell Farmer of Bishopville, SC; brother, Pee Wee Matuse of Bishopville, SC; five grandchildren; eight great-grand-children.www.bpafuneralhome.com

Visitations:
5:00PM to 7:00PM on Friday, October 29th, 2004 at Brown-Pennington-Atkins

ROXIE MATUSE
Funeral services for Roxie Catherine Matuse, 72, were held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 6, 2004, at the Brown-Pennington-Atkins Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Marvin Griggs officiating. Burial followed in Savannah Advent Christian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mrs. Matuse died Saturday, April 3. Born in Darlington County, she was a daughter of the late Jack and Hallie Dixon Valentine. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother.

Surviving are her husband, Willie Matuse of Hartsville; daughters and sons-in-law, Debra and Harold Byrd of Society Hill, Mickie and Chuck Nymberg of Hartsville; brothers, Andrew Valentine of Darlington, Jerome Valentine of High Point, Johnny Valentine of Effingham, Ronnie Valentine of Hartsville; sisters, Juanita Brown, Jerdgie Mae Smothers, Pat Atkinson, Velma Sanders, Bonnie Byrd, all of Hartsville; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, James Keith Matuse.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at our website www.bpafuneralhome.com.

The Messenger, Hartsville, South Carolina - (Apr 9, 2004)

Robert D. Jennings - Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2011

2011-10-21T18:09:00.000-04:00

Bishopville, South Carolina

Robert Dennis Jennings, 77, husband of June McLendon Jennings and a Bishopville attorney for 50 years, died Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2011.

Mr. Jennings was a lifelong resident of Lee County, the youngest son of the late Henry Caldwell and Mary Green Hill Jennings. He graduated from Bishopville High School, where he served as president of the student body and participated in all sports. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Mr. Jennings graduated from Wofford College in 1956, where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order and served as number one. He was a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Law in the Class of 1960. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army and also served time as a Reservist.

Mr. Jennings joined his father and brother in the practice of law in 1960 in the firm of Jennings and Jennings. In his professional life, Mr. Jennings served as master-in-equity for 14 years and was a member of the Lee County and South Carolina Bar, from which he received his 50-year pin. He was a public defender for Lee County. He had served as town attorney for Bishopville and was the attorney for the town of Lynchburg. He was always interested in his community and served 12 years on the Bishopville town council. He was a Jaycee and received their Young Man of the Year award; was a member of the Rotary Club; served on the library board; and served on the Board of Review for the Boy Scouts.

A lifelong member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Mr. Jennings served in many capacities. He was chairman of the administrative board, board of trustees, chairman of the finance committee, president of the Joe Fanning Sunday School Class, and a Sunday school teacher.

Mr. Jennings was interested in his family history and in history in general. He enjoyed sports all his life and inherited a great love of nature from his mother and father. He loved spending time at the beach with his wife, children and their spouses, and his grandchildren. He particularly enjoyed indoctrinating the grandchildren in the joy of swimming in the ocean and riding the waves.

Mr. Jennings is survived by his wife of 51 years; daughters and sons-in-law, Sarah and Trip Johnstone of Greenville and Laura and Tom Mincher of Greensboro, N.C.; a son, Robert Dennis "Bob" Jennings Jr. of Florence; six grandchildren, Jennings Johnstone, Ellison Johnstone and Rudy Johnstone of Greenville, and Sarah Ann Mincher, Thomas Mincher, and Robert Mincher of Greensboro. He is also survived by a brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Laura Ellen McLendon of Sumter; six nieces and nephews; and seven great-nieces and great-nephews

He was predeceased by a brother, Henry C. Jennings Jr.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Bethlehem United Methodist Church with the Rev. Henry Altman and the Rev. Fred McDaniel officiating. Burial will be in the Jennings plot at Bethlehem United Methodist Church cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Alan Corbett, Bryan Doby, Jake Jennings, Dave McLendon, Jack McLendon and Will Wheeler.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Preston Arthur Driggers 10/15/2011

2011-10-15T23:59:00.000-04:00

Preston Arthur Driggers
2/17/1963 - 10/15/2011

Bishopville, S.C.

Graveside services for Preston Arthur Driggers, age 48, who passed away October 15, will be held Monday at 10:00 am at the McLean Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville. Visitation will be Sunday 6-8 pm at the Funeral Home in Bishopville. Rev. Cecil Stevens will officiate. Arthur was born in Hartsville a son of Annie Mae Gardner Driggers and the late John Preston Driggers. Surviving is his mother of Bishopville. www.nortonfh.net

Guy Russell - October 13, 2011

2011-10-13T20:55:00.000-04:00

515 Miller Road

Sumter, South Carolina 29150

Phone: (803)775-7500 Fax: (803)774-2037

October 13, 2011

Sumter, SC

Guy Russell, 87, husband of Christine Brooks Russell, died Thursday, October 13, 2011 at his home.

Born July 4, 1924 in Nashville, TN, he was a son of the late Guy Russell, Sr., and the late Minnie Russell Seay. Mr. Russell retired from the US Air Force after 20 years of service and later retired with the rank of Captain from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Department after 20 years of service. He was a member of Northside Memorial Baptist Church and the Sumter Masonic Lodge #364.

Survivors include his wife; children, Daniel Gene Russell (Liz) of Madisonville, TN, Benjamin Lester Russell (Sharon) of Jackson, GA, and James LeBron Thompson (Denise) of Sumter; grandchildren, Sandra Russell of Madisonville, TN, Steven Russell of Knoxville, TN, Melissa Thompson of Sumter, James Russell of Jackson, GA, Sarah Russell (Donnie) of Sumter, and Karin Thompson Westhead (David) of Charleston; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Virginia Wallin of Chattanooga, TN.

Funeral services will be held at 1 P.M. Saturday in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Holley officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Members of the Sumter County Sheriff’s Department will serve as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 P.M. Friday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home, 3867 Barfield Rd.

Memorials may be made to CarePro Hospice, 1800 Main Street, Suite 100A, Columbia, SC 29201.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

Lloyd H. Baker Obituary: View Lloyd Baker's Obituary by The State

2011-09-28T08:25:00.000-04:00

Lloyd H. Baker Obituary: View Lloyd Baker's Obituary by The State: "BISHOPVILLE - Lloyd H. Baker, 93, widower of Ella Mae Holloman Baker, died Monday, September 26, 2011, at his home.
Born in Lee County, he was a son of the late James Baker and the late Vinie Davis Baker. Mr. Baker was a member of Cedar Creek Baptist Church and had retired from SONOCO. He was a member of Bishopville Masonic Lodge."

'via Blog this'

Jeanne F. Mullins - September 5, 2011

2011-09-08T08:20:00.002-04:00

Jeanne F. Mullins, 83, wife of Herbert P. Mullins, died Monday, Sept. 5, 2011, at Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia.

Born in Fond-Du-Lac, Wis., she was a daughter of the late Alvin and Verena Marie Allard Floyd. She was an avid seamstress and enjoyed a variety of needle work and quilting.

Survivors include her husband of Sumter; three daughters, Deborah Swaney (Rick) of Vienna, Ill., Charlotte Stewart (Larry) of Sumter and Barbara Ward (John) of Pleasant Prairie, Wis.; six stepchildren, Jerry Mullins, Cris Mullins, Kevin Mullins, Patrick Mullins, Sean Mullins and Jana Lee Rankin; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Wally Floyd and Maurey Floyd, both of Virginia; and a sister, Donna Brillion of Gurnee, Ill.

Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery with the Rev. John Patrick officiating.

The family will receive friends from 3 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 W. Faris St., Greenville, SC 29605-4277.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium
515 Miller Road
Sumter, SC 29150-3331
(803) 775-7500

John Walter "Tadpole" Watts - September 1, 2011

2011-09-04T07:35:00.003-04:00

John Walter Watts, 78, husband of Elizabeth "Betty" Burke Watts, died Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, at Tuomey Hospital in Sumter.

Born Aug. 16, 1933, in Sumter, he was the son of the late Jackson Lee Watts and the late Wilma Evans Watts. He was a former member of the National Guard, a member of Jamil Temple, Sumter Masonic Lodge #364, Beuclare Chapter #20 Order of the Eastern Star, was a retired plumber with Hill Plumbing in Sumter with 49 years of service, a member of Bethel Methodist Church in Oswego and he attended Summerton Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his wife of Summerton; a son, Derek Watts of Jacksonville, Fla.; two daughters, Cindy Morris of Sumter and Kaye Angelbrant (Gene) of Canton, Mich.; five stepsons, Bennie Burke of Columbia, Robert E. Burke (Debra) of Pinewood, Jimmy Burke (Gail) of Lexington, Danny Burke (Helen) of Dalzell and Michael Burke (Beth) of Bluffton; a sister, Mozelle London of Sumter; two brothers, Gerald Watts of Sumter and Jackson L. Watts of Surfside; two granddaughters, Stacy Freeman (Chris) and Jennifer Starr, all of Sumter; a grandson, Joey Angelbrant of Kansas City, Mo.; three great-grandchildren; a number of step-grandchildren; and seven step-great-grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Marion Watts; and a sister, Frances Newman.

A funeral service will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011, in the chapel of Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home in Sumter with the Revs. Garland Hart, Curtis Wells and Jim Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the Bethel Methodist Church Cemetery in Oswego. Pallbearers will be Chris Watts, Jackie London, Jimmy Newman, Lee Morgan, Frank Hill, David Burke, Gene Angelbrant and Frankie Newman.

Honorary pallbearers will be the employees of Hill Plumbing, the Jamil Shriners and members of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Sunday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the residence, 1181 Newman Circle, Summerton.

Memorials may be made to the Shriner's Hospital for Children, 950 West Faris Rd., Greenville 29605, Bethel Methodist Church, 5575 Lodebar Rd., Sumter 29153 or to Summerton Presbyterian Church, 16 S. Cantey St., Summerton 29148.

Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church St., Manning, is in charge of arrangements.

2011-08-28T15:59:00.000-04:00

Mary Georgie Hanna Reames

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MYRTLE BEACH

Mary Georgie Hanna Reames, 89, widow of Charles Melvin "Buck" Reames, Jr., passed on to be with the Lord Thursday, August 25, 2011, at Grand Strand Health Care of Myrtle Beach.

Born February 19, 1922, in Williamsburg County, she was a daughter of the late Sidney Carl Hanna and the late Everette McCullough Hanna. Mrs. Reames was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Family birthdays were special because of the "creatively" decorated cakes.

Survivors include two daughters, Mary Anne Reames Deaton (Jim) of Burnsville, NC, and Charlene Reames Easterling (Bill) of Little River; seven grandchildren, Deric Rosenbaum (Melissa), Natalie Rosenbaum, Wesley Harris (Beth), Bryan Faucette, Patrick Faucette (Megumi), Julia Schrecker (Larry), and Nena Mashaw (Mark); and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Helen Reames Faucette; three sisters; and three brothers.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday in the Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home Chapel with Mr. James E. Deaton, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in the Bethlehem United Methodist Church Cemetery in Bishopville.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Bethlehem United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 167, Bishopville, SC 29010.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of arrangements.