BRIAN K. MCLEOD

PINEWOOD - Brian Keith McLeod, 40, husband of Jennifer Lynn Newman McLeod, died Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, at Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia.

Born in Sumter, he was a son of Charlie Hampton McLeod and the late Mildred Raye McLeod. He was employed as an LTA at Becton-Dickinson. He was a member of Manchester Trail Riders and Po' Boys Hunting Club. Brian was a very caring and loving husband, father and grandfather. Some of the things he enjoyed were spending time with his family, going on trail rides, hunting and running beagles with his buddies. Never at a loss for words, Brian always had a funny joke or comment to make. There was never a dull moment with him around. It is an understatement to say this world will never be the same without him.

Survivors include his wife of Pinewood; father of Sumter; a daughter, Kelsey Lynn Newman (Bryan McElveen); a son, Dylan Keith McLeod; a grandson, Jackson Wyatt McElveen; a sister, Donna McLeod Brookshire (Chuck); a brother, Delbert McLeod (Susie); mother-in-law and father-in-law, Stephanie Taylor Newman and Richard S. Newman; a sister-in-law, Leigh N. Mitchell (Mitch); three nieces, Lindsey Raye Bartlette, Crystal L. Boykin and Sarah Grace Brookshire; and a nephew, Matthew Boykin Bruce, all of Sumter.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth W. McLeod.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at Calvary Church of the Nazarene with Bryan Hatfield, chaplain of the Manchester Trail Riders, officiating. Burial will be in the Calvary Nazarene Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Eric Brown, Johnny Buddin, Ronnie Burns, Thomas Charles, David "Pearl" Floyd and Jeff Meares.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday at Calvary Church of the Nazarene and other times at the home of Thomas and Dallen Charles, 355 Pearson Road.

Memorials may be made to John K. Crosswell Home for Children, 11 Crosswell Drive, Sumter, SC 29150.

In accordance with Brian's wishes, the family requests that all in attendance wear blue jeans and casual shirts.

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

Beverly Jean Hudson Branton - Sunday, November 16, 2014

Hopkins, SC

Beverly Jean Hudson Branton, age 55, died on Sunday, November 16, 2014 at Palmetto Health Baptist.

Born in Ft. Worth, TX, she was the daughter of  Maurice A. Hudson and the late Geraldine Reffitt Hudson. Beverly graduated  from St. Andrews Presbyterian College with a BA in Photojournalism. She was awarded second place by Governor Carroll Campbell for her work as a photojournalist and covering agriculture for the Conway Journal for two years in a row. She was an advocate for Breast Cancer and participated annually in the  Breast Cancer walk to Charlotte. She traveled to Columbus, Ohio once a week for over 4 years to take care of her sister during her courageous battle with cancer. She enjoyed the outdoors and loved to travel. Beverly will be remembered as a loving daughter, mother, friend and kind soul. She will be dearly missed by all that knew her.

Surviving in addition to her father are:  Step son, Dustin Smith of Conway; step daughter, Marie Branton of Conway; one brother - in- law, Vince Marchese of Columbus, Ohio and one grandchild, Camden Cash Branton.

In addition to her mother, she is preceded in death by a son, Nicholas Branton, one sister, Sue Marchese and two nephews, Nathan Marchese and Christopher Marchese.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 21, 2014 at 12:00 pm in the Bullock Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Tommy McDonald officiating.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 20, 2014 from 5-7 pm at Bullock Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that  donations be made to SCOA Cares Foundation, P.O. Box 2046, West Columbia, SC 29171.

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

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements. 

Carol "Papa" Burr - Nov. 10, 2014

Carol "Papa" Burr

Carol "Papa" Burr passed away on Nov. 10, 2014, at Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born in Anson County, North Carolina, he was a son of the late Hamer Lee and Pearl Watkins Burr. After graduating from Ansonville High School, Carol attended mortuary school before joining the United States Air Force. He retired after 20 years of service to his country. During his service, Carol was awarded a Bronze Star, an Air Force Commendation Medal, an Organizational Excellence Award, an Air Force Good Conduct Medal, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, a Longevity Service Award, an NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, a Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, a Vietnam Campaign Medal, and a Meritorious Service Medal.

In addition to his many military accomplishments, Carol became a licensed contractor and a licensed real estate broker. He was a Shriner, member of the Sumter Jamil Temple Shrine Club and a Master Mason, member of the Spring Hill Lodge. Carol also served on Sumter County Council for 12 years and was a past president of the Sumter County Republican Party. Carol was a member of Alice Drive Baptist Church for 30 years.

The accomplishment he was most proud of began after basic training in 1953, when he married Loretta Helms. Carol and Loretta were wed in a double ceremony with Carol's twin brother Harold and Harold's wife, Tonie. In the following years, he would become the proud father of three children and proud "Papa" of five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Carol is survived by his wife of 61 years, Loretta Burr; sons, Michael Carol Burr (Rhonda) and Robert Wayne Burr (Fonn); and daughter, Katherine Lee Burr Sydow (Mike). He is also survived by five grandchildren, Mandy Burr Ashley (Nick), Jessica Burr Lea (Jamie), Trenton Wayne Burr (Ashley), Caroline Elizabeth Sydow and Katherine Morgan Sydow; and six great-grandchildren, Collen Michelle Ashley, Aislin Fonn Lea, Caleb Whitner Ashley, Lauren James Lea, Ella Kay Burr and Evienne Reese Lea. He is survived by his twin brother, Harold Burr (Tonie); his brother, Hugh Watkins; his sister, Jo Alexander (Allen); and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Nancy Louise Burr, Alma Watkins Webb and Ruth Watkins Gray; two brothers, John T. Watkins and William H. Watkins; and his cherished daughter-in-law, Rhonda Posey Burr.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at Alice Drive Baptist Church with Dr. Clay Smith and the Rev. Jock Hendricks officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Rickey Adcock, Joshua Burr, Landon Burr, Chandler Joyner, Dean Burr, Marty Atkinson, Richard Deese, Gerald Phillips and Chuck Bowers.

Honorary pallbearers will be members of the men's Sunday school class of Alice Drive Baptist Church.

Memorials may be made to Alice Drive Baptist Church, 1305 Loring Mill Road, Sumter, SC 29150 or to the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675. (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).

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

Walter Bryant Elmore - Friday, October 17, 2014

Walter Bryant Elmore, 78, husband of Frances Loretta Bradham Elmore, died on Friday, Oct. 17, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Lee County, he was a son of the late Walter E. and Mary B. Stokes Elmore. He was a member of First Baptist Church and retired from the city of Sumter. He was a member of Claremont Masonic Lodge No. 64.

Survivors include his wife; two children, Brenda Hamm (Larry) and Richard "Rickie" Elmore (Debbie), both of Sumter; four granddaughters, Deanna Moore (Keith), Whitney Brown (Jacob), Ashleigh Hamm and Megan Burchfield (Zach); four great-grandchildren, Bryson Hamm, Kelsee Moore, Kenslee Moore and Benson Brown; two sisters, Ann Mitchell of Sumter and Jean Partin (Thomas) of Fayetteville, North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Deborah J. McAfee.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dan Barber and the Rev. Charles Clanton officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Benevolence Fund or Singing Christmas Tree Fund, 107 E. Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150.

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

Member of Sumter Masonic Lodge # 364 AFM - Joseph Milton Reynolds - Monday, October 13, 2014

Joseph Milton Reynolds, age 79, beloved husband of 20 years to Sylvia Dorothy Umney Reynolds, died on Monday, October 13, 2014 at Tuomey Medical Center. 

Born in Columbia, SC, Mr. Reynolds was the son of the late Clyde Eugene Reynolds and Annie Mae Long Reynolds. Mr. Reynolds retired after serving 21 years with the United States Air Force during which he served two tours in Vietnam. He later retired from Campbell Soup Company. He was an avid golfer and was active with the Shriners, Elks and VFW Post 3034. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. 


Surviving in addition to his wife are: one son, Joey Reynolds and his wife Jackie of Bluffton; one daughter, Connie Vaught and her husband Doug of Lamar; five stepsons, Paul Davies of England, Mark Davies of Sumter, Gary Davies and his 
wife Debbie of York, Daniel Davies of Sumter and Andrew Wright and his wife Melissa of Sumter; one stepdaughter, Kim Tedder and her husband George of Sumter; nineteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren. 

In addition to his parents, Mr. Reynolds was preceded in death by his first wife Mary Reynolds and two sisters.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 4:00 pm in the Bullock Funeral Home Chapel, 1190 Wilson Hall Road, Sumter, SC 29150 with Masonic and Elks Rites and Military Honors. 

The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 W. Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605 or to the Elks Lodge 855, Sumter Special People, 1100 West Liberty Street, Sumter, SC 29150.

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

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.

Charles Douglas Jenkins - Sunday, October 6, 2014

Charles Douglas Jenkins, 90, husband of the late Jean Haynie Jenkins, died Sunday, October 6, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Sumter, he was a son of the late Charles Burgess Jenkins and the late Martha Brockington Jenkins. Mr. Jenkins was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church. He was the owner of Triple A Fence Company. He was a US Navy veteran of World War II and member of the American Legion Post 15.

Survivors include three daughters, Janis J. Carlisle (Clem), Beth J. Andrews (Chuck), and Carol J. Brown (Randy), and); grandchildren, Paige C. Trebour (Christopher), Charles G. “Chuck” Carlisle (Heather), Charles H. “Chad” Andrews, IV (Elizabeth), Daniel J. Andrews (Lisa), Jason W. Brown, and Brandon H. Brown; and great-grandchildren, Lakin Trebour (Kendall), Conner Trebour, Madison Trebour, Hunter Ratliff, Tanner Ratliff, Haylee Ratliff, Jenkins Andrews, Caroline Andrews, Joshua Andrews, Caleb Andrews, and Anne Sullivan Andrews; a sister, Sara J. Rivers of Sumter; and special caregivers, Mary Davis and Mozell Thompson.

He was preceded in death by three sisters, Burgess J. DuBose, Thelma “Teddy” J. Shaw, and Eloise “Ella” J. Harrison.

Funeral services will be held at 3 P.M. Wednesday at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Clanton and the Rev. Bobby Jackson officiating. Burial will be in the Sumter Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be grandsons, Charles G. “Chuck” Carlisle, Christopher Trebour, Charles H. “Chad” Andrews, IV, Daniel J. Andrews, Jason W. Brown, and Brandon H. Brown.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jim and Eleanor Beard, Dave and Nancy McDuffie, Mike and Carol Bond, Alan and Ann Cannon, Mac and Gloria McEwen, and Bobby Sigley.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 P.M. Wednesday at First Baptist Church and other times at the home, 21 Radcliff Dr.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 107 East Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150.

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

Liston Hallie Bailey Jr. - Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Sumter, SC

Liston Hallie Bailey, Jr., 85, widower of Florence Reynolds Bailey, died Tuesday, October 7, 2014, at McElveen Manor.

Born in Florence, he was a son of the late Clyde Edward Thomas and Viva Agnes Touchberry Thomas.

Mr. Bailey was a member of Northside Memorial Baptist Church and was retired from McLaughlin Ford.

Surviving are a son, Thomas L. "Tommy" Bailey (LaVonne) of Greenwood, SC; two daughters, Elaine B. Huggins of Sumter and Susan B. Dennard (Brad) of Cottontown, TN; six grandchildren, Kyle Huggins, Becky Barnette (Jordan), Michael T. Bailey (Lauren), Alicia B. Keely (Nick), Jeremy Dennard and Joshua Dennard; one great-grandchild, Kenleigh Barnette; two special friends, Margaret and Sollie Till, and his faithful dog, Peanut. 

He was preceded in death by a brother, Marion E. Bailey; a sister, Mary Elizabeth Dickerson; and a son-in-law, Kenny Huggins. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M. Friday in the Chapel of the Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home with Rev. Jimmy Holley and Rev. Mark Barnette officiating.

Burial will be in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be grandchildren and John Touchberry.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 P.M. Thursday at the Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and other times at the home.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of McElveen Manor and Caris Hospice for their loving care. 

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

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.

Beatrice Metts Turner - October 1, 2014

Branchvill​e, SC​

Beatrice Metts Turner, 87 years of age, died October 1, 2014. Mrs. Turner was born in Branchville, a daughter of the late Clarence M. Metts and Fannie Idella Walters Metts. She was a member of the Branchville Baptist Church. She was a nurse at Providence Hospital in Columbia, Manor Care Nursing Home, and Bowman Public School System. She was the widow of the late James Roy Turner Sr. and has been a member of the Branchville community for the past 18 years.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, October 4, 2014, at 11:00 A.M. at the chapel of Ott Funeral Home in Branchville. Burial will be in Sardis Cemetery in Branchville.

She is survived by one daughter, Gail (Barry) Rickman and one son Roy (Susan) Turner, both of W. Columbia, two sisters, Althea Dickson and Esther Jennings, both of Branchville, three grandchildren, Lauren (James) Watkins, Jennifer Rickman, and Allison Turner, one great grandchild, Breanna Mack, and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Friday, October 3, 2014, from 6 to 8 P.M., at the Ott Funeral Home in Branchville, 7305 Freedom Rd., Branchville, SC, 29432. Memorials may be made to Branchville Baptist Church, 691 Ott St., Branchville, SC, 29432, or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 810 Dutch Square Blvd., #114, Columbia, SC, 29201.

Online condolences can be made at www.ottfh.com

Andrew Gaulding, July 2, 1932 - September 27, 2014

Andrew Gaulding

Andrew Gaulding, age 82, beloved husband of 63 years to Louise Ray Gaulding, died on Saturday, September 27, 2014 at Tuomey Medical Center.

Born in Tallapoosa, GA, he was the son of the late Clyde B. Spears Gaulding and Rosa B. Clinard Gaulding. Mr. Gaulding, was retired from the United States Air Force as a TSgt after over twenty of service. He was an active member of the Jamil Shrine Club where he was a member of the Color Guard, an active member of the MRMA and of the Autumn Woods Christian Church. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. Mr. Gaulding will be missed by all that knew him.

Surviving in addition to his wife are: two children, Keith Gaulding and his wife Cheryl of Dalzell and Karen Michalik and her husband John of Dalzell; one sister, Be Gebhart of Dover, DL; five grandchildren, Travis, January, Lindsey, Melissa, Andrew and Kimberly and nine great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at 11:00 am in the Bullock Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Tim Brown officiating. Interment will follow at 2:00 pm in the Ft. Jackson National Cemetery with full military honors.

The family will receive one hour prior to the service from 10:00 -11:00 am on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at Bullock Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital, 950 W. Faris Road, Greenwood, SC 29605.

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

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.

Bullock Funeral Home & Crematorium

1190 Wilson Hall Rd

Sumter, SC 29150-1831

(803) 469-3400

Website 

Reverend G.W. Harrell, Jr. - Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Rev. G.W. Harrell, Jr., 82, beloved husband of the late Alpha May Hodge Harrell, made the journey home Tuesday, September 23, 2014. 

Born January 15, 1932 in Greensboro, NC, he was the son of the late Glenn Washington Harrell, Sr. and the late Maxine Glenn Harrell. He began his call to preach in 1950 while attending Sumter First Church of the Nazarene. 

His first pastorate was in 1952 at Great Falls Nazarene in Chester County, SC. He served as Pastor of Berclaire Nazarene in Memphis, TN, Garden Road Nazarene in Charleston County, SC, Florence Nazarene in Florence County, SC, Associate Pastor of Lem Turner Church of the Nazarene in Jacksonville, FL, Associate Pastor of Bennettsville Nazarene in Marlboro County, SC, and retired as Pastor of Calvary Church of the Nazarene where he served from 1973 – 1997. 

Following his retirement, he was Interim Pastor for Walterboro Nazarene in Colleton County, SC, Georgetown Nazarene in Georgetown County, SC, and Associate Pastor of Manning New Start Nazarene in Clarendon County from 1999 – His End of Call. He organized and assisted with organizing Nazarene Churches in SC. He also served on the Trevecca Nazarene College Board (now Trevecca Nazarene University), the Salvation Army Boy’s Club Board, and numerous SC Nazarene District Boards. 

Survivors include two sons, Glenn A. Harrell (Tammi), Samuel Joseph Harrell (Barbara), both of Sumter; a daughter, Patricia Martin of Houston TX; a brother, Robert Harrell of Sumter; a sister, Martha Nevins of Ridgeland, SC; seven grandchildren, Jeremy Harrell (Michelle), Paige Watts (Brian), Brian Harrell (Cathy), Ariel Harrell, Joe Moore, Lisa Ricci (Danny), & Amy Becker (Zachary); eight great-grandchildren, Glenn Wesley Harrell, Kylee Watts, J.P. Watts, Wyatt Watts, Cole Yomtob, Drake Donlon, Autumn Moore, and Ce Ce Ricci; and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; a daughter, Bonnie Lois Harrell (an infant); a sister, Barbara Harrell Hodges; a son-in-law, Logan Martin; two grandsons, Jonathan Martin, and Robert Allen Harrell (an infant), and a great-niece, Adalynn Marie Lester (an infant). 

Funeral services will be held at 1p.m. Saturday, September 27, 2014 at Sumter First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Greg Pressley, Rev. Vilma Horne, Rev. Dale Turner, Rev. Dr. Albert Truesdale, and District Superintendent Dr. Eddie Estep officiating. 

Interment will be at the Calvary Nazarene Cemetery. Jessie McLeod, Jerry Hyatt, George Geddings, Joe Waldron, Howard Pew, Mike Larkins, Tim Alsbrooks, and St. Andrews Albert will serve as pallbearers. 

The family extends special thanks to Dr. Alton Jordan, Dr. James B. Cahill, Mr. Howard Pew, and all who cared so tenderly for him at National Healthcare. 

Memorials can be made to the Worship Department at Sumter First Church of the Nazarene, 3700 Patriot Parkway, Sumter, SC 29154. 

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday before the service and other times at the home, 4500 Nazarene Church Road. 

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium is in charge of the arrangements. www.ecsfuneralhome.com

Harriett Ann Brodie Buckley - Sunday, August 31, 2014

Harriett Ann Brodie Buckley NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Harriett Ann Brodie Buckley passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2014, surrounded by her family. She is survived by husband, John Dennis Buckley, daughters, Kathleen Renee Buckley and Jennifer Maureen Elizabeth Cannon, son, John Michael Buckley, and her four grandchildren, Maureen Elizabeth Buckley, Kristina Ellen Buckley, John Patrick Buckley, and John Declan Cannon. She was the only daughter of Mr Otto Brodie and Mrs Annelle McLendon Brodie, born and raised in Bishopville, SC. She attended Winthrop College earning a teaching degree in 1957 and moved to Newport News, VA in 1960 where she and her husband raised their family and resided for 54 years until her death. Mrs. Buckley was very involved in her children's activities as well as had a great love for gardening and flowers. She was a founding member and president of the Denbigh Plantation Garden Club. Her greatest enjoyment for the past 15 years was spending time with her grandchildren. A graveside memorial service will be held Thursday, September 4, 2014 at 11:00 at Bishopville Presbyterian Church in Bishopville, SC. Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=harriett-ann-brodie-buckley&pid=172329683&fhid=8954#sthash.wn6o8CJl.dpuf

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=harriett-ann-brodie-buckley&pid=172329683&fhid=8954#storylink=cpy

James Rudolf Melton - August 20, 2014

James Rudolf Melton

A funeral service to celebrate the life of James Rudolf Melton, 86, of Cassatt, SC, will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, August 24, 2014 at Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel. Pastor Jeff Grubbs and Rev. John Hallman will officiate. Burial will follow in Quaker Cemetery. The family will receive friends at 1:00 PM, 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made in Mr. Melton’s memory to Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Disorders Association-Mid State-SC, 3223 Sunset Blvd. Suite 100, W. Columbia, SC 29169 or Agape Hospice, 141 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia, SC 29210.

James Rudolf Melton, husband of Mary Frances Cureton Melton, died August 20, 2014. He was born in Darlington, SC, the son of the late Elwyn and Marie Andrews Melton. Mr. Melton was a member of Bethesda Presbyterian Church. 

He was a US Navy veteran and was retired from DuPont in the Power Plant and Wastewater Division. Mr. Melton also built and ran the North Central Market and Grill in Cassatt.

Mr. Melton is survived by his wife; daughters, Caroline Cureton Melton and Elizabeth Andrews Melton Ballard, both of Cassatt; sons, James Elwyn Melton and Frank Cureton Melton, both of Cassatt; 7 grandsons; 6 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; and his sisters, Peggy M. Green of Florence, SC and Shirley M. Wells of Franklin, TN.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Agape Hospice for their special care.

Besides his parents, Mr. Melton was predeceased by his son, John Felder Melton.

Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel, is in charge of the arrangements.

James R Melton - August 20, 2014

James R. Melton, 86, of Cassatt, SC, died Wednesday, August 20, 2014. Plans are incomplete and will be announced by Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel.

VELDA W. ANDERSON - Thursday, August 14, 2014

Velda Rose Williams Anderson, 79, wife of Gilbert Anderson, went to be with her Lord on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014, at her home. Born in Casey County, Kentucky, she was a daughter of the late Arlis D. and Pearl Durham Williams. Mrs. Anderson was a member of Northside Memorial Baptist Church. Surviving are her husband of Sumter; three sons, James Watson (Linda) of Sumter, Elmer Watson (Carlene) of Ohio and Jacob Anderson of Washington state; one daughter, Jean Papucci (O.J.) of Sumter; one stepson, Robert Anderson (Diana) of Washington; two stepdaughters, Randi Eppileto of Oregon and Amy Gonzales (Fred) of Texas; 19 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday at Northside Memorial Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Holley officiating. Burial will follow in Sumter Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Fellowship Sunday School Class. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday at Northside Memorial Baptist Church and other times at the home. Memorials may be made to the Northside Memorial Baptist Church Building Fund, 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.

Carolyn Mathis Sellers, July 28, 2014

Bishopville, SC

Carolyn Mathis Sellers, 80, widow of the late George "Buster" Sellers, died July 28, 2014. Service will be held on Thursday, July 31 at 1 p.m. at Bethlehem United Methodist Church with burial in Bethlehem Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 30 from 6:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. 

Mrs. Sellers, daughter of the late Brantley Mathis and Mattie Elmore Mathis, was born in Lee County. Surviving are two sons, George Michael Sellers and his wife, Connie Drake, and Davis Thomas Sellers of Bishopville; five grandchildren, Justin Sellers of Edgefield, Lindsay Sellers of Simpsonville, Dylan Sellers of Union, Zandra Carl of Winchester, Virginia, and Matthew Coats of Lexington; five great-grandchildren, and a brother, James Mathis of Irmo. 

Mrs. Sellers retired from Lee County Hospital in Bishopville. She was a lifelong member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church. 

She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She will be missed dearly. 

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

Shirley Elizabeth McDaniel Kolb, July 27, 2014

Shirley Elizabeth McDaniel Kolb, age 77, beloved wife of the late Sidney Burgess Kolb​ (Sumter Lodge No. 364 AFM)​, died on Sunday, July 27, 2014 at Tuomey Regional Medical Center. She was born in Florence County, a daughter of the late Oliver Wendell McDaniel and Elizabeth Huggins McDaniel. She worked as a Radiologist Technologist at Tuomey Regional Medical Center for 52 years. She was a member and past president of the Pilot Club, and a member and past president of the Sumter Women's Bowling Association. She was an active member of the Trinity United Methodist Church, where she served as the treasurer of the FAHOLO Sunday School Class, and was a member of the United Methodist Women and felt her friends there were her special and second family. She had many special friends throughout the community and she served many happy hours as a volunteer in the church office. Surviving are: two brothers, Wyman O. McDaniel and special friend Annie Dell Green of Bishopville, and Don Raemon McDaniel and his wife Fena of Bishopville; a sister, Marcelene Heitkemper and her husband Louie of Tell City, IN; 4 nephews, Mark L. Heitkemper and his wife Judy, Rodney O. McDaniel, Don Raemon McDaniel, Jr. and his wife Greta and Rev. Fred S. McDaniel and his wife Linda and; 5 nieces, Deborah M. Ferguson and her husband Philip, Elizabeth M. McMillian and her husband Scott, Marcie Liz H. Tabor, Anna Margaret M. Doby and her husband Bryan, and Michelle H. Gentry and her husband Chad ; 7 great nieces; 5 great nephews; two great-great nieces; and one great-great nephew. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 30,2014 at 11:00am at the Trinity United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Steve Holler and the Rev. Fred S. McDaniel officiating. Burial will be private at the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Bryan Doby, James Doby, Philip Ferguson, Mark Heitkemper, Rae McDaniel, Rod McDaniel, Hunter McMillian, and Scott McMillian. Honorary pallbearers will be the members of FAHOLO Class of Trinity United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 from 6-8pm at Bullock Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to The Tuomey Foundation, 115 N. Sumter Street, Ste. 120, Sumter, SC 29150 or to the Trinity United Methodist Church, 226 W. Liberty Street, Sumter, SC 29150. You may sign the family's guest book at​ ​www.bullockfuneralhome.com The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.

Obituary for The Rev. Father Frederick F. Masad

The Reverend Frederick F. Masad was born on October 9, 1934 in Columbia, SC, the first child of Frederick F. Masad and Cathleen Metz Masad. He graduated in 1952 from Bishopville High School before entering St. Bernard Seminary in Cullman, Alabama, from which he graduated in 1956. He then entered the Theological College at Catholic University of America to complete his studies. He was ordained a priest at St. Peter Parish in Columbia, the church of his baptism, on May 21, 1960. 

A beloved highlight of his ministerial career was as a teacher of history at Bishop England High School in Charleston from 1962 to 1971. Father Masad served in numerous parishes over the course of his fifty-four years of priesthood. These included pastorates at St. Mary in Hartsville, St. Anthony in Florence, Our Lady of the Hills in Columbia, St. Andrew in Myrtle Beach, and, closing out his career, at St. John Neumann in Columbia, at which he served twenty-two years as Pastor and four years as Pastor Emeritus.

He is survived by his brother, Cleve Masad (Brittmarie) of Petaluma, California; niece, Jolene Masad; nephew, Marquan Masad; great nephew, Bradin Masad; sister-in-law, Jaffra Masad; and by his cousin, Bette Blankenship of Columbia. He was predeceased by his brother, Edward Masad.

A Vigil Prayer Service followed by visitation will be held on Sunday, July 20 at 7:30 P.M. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church (100 Polo Road, Columbia). Rev. C. Alexander McDonald will preside with Rev. D. Anthony Droze as homilist.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, July 21 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church. Rev. Msgr. Richard D. Harris, V.G. will preside with Rev. C. Alexander McDonald as homilist.

Bridget J. Schaffer

Sumter, SC

Bridget J. "Bridie" Schaffer, 92, widow of Rawland T. Schaffer, died on Tuesday, June 10, 2014, at her

home.

Born on Oct. 9, 1921, in Dublin, Ireland, she was a daughter of the late Nicholas and Mary Hughes

Freeman. She retired from Campbell Soup Co. and the Sumter Police Department after serving more

than 20 years as a crossing guard. She was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church.

Survivors include four children, Ruth Spradlin of Columbia, and Mary Aquilar, Tony Ellis (Wanda) and

Pat Hill (Charles), all of Sumter; a special friend, Virginia Ruis; two sisters, Madge Burke of Ireland

and Carmel Whitson of New York; a brother, Tony Freeman of New York; eight grandchildren; eight

great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Mae Doyle; and three brothers, Tommy Freeman, Johnny

Freeman and Richard Freeman.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday at Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery with the

Rev. Charles Donovan, C.Ss.R. officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and

other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Catholic Church, P.O. Box 1589, Sumter, SC

29151 or to Tuomey Hospice, 500 Pinewood Road, Suite 2, Sumter, SC 29154.

The family would like to express a special thanks to Debbie Felder and Kim Cunningham for their

love and care.

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



arrangements. www.ecsfuneralhome.com

Bishopville, South Carolina

Carol Nesbitt Johnson, 78, wife of Calbert W. Johnson Sr., died on Monday, June 2, 2014, at Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, Hartsville.

Born in Lee County, she was a daughter of the late Wilson McCoy Nesbitt and Lizzie Pierce Nesbitt. She was a member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church. Her first love was her church and her family. For the past seven years, she had been serving as the president of Constance Herbert Sunday School Class. She also served as volunteer treasurer of the Lee County Care Center. She was a 1953 graduate of Bishopville High School and worked as a secretary at her high school alma mater for six years after graduation. The Senior Class of 1960 dedicated their yearbook to her, the greatest honor that could be bestowed upon a school employee. She was employed by Peoples Bank as head cashier for 25 years and retired from Folsom CPA after 25 years of faithful service there.

Survivors include her husband of Bishopville; a son, Bill Johnson (Lisa) of Bishopville; a grandson, Trey Johnson; a granddaughter, Caroline Johnson; a sister, Molly N. Moore of Bishopville; a niece, Susie Chavis of Bishopville; and two nephews, Andy Caughman of Bishopville and Mike Nesbitt of Elliott.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at Bethlehem United Methodist Church with the Rev. Larry Watson and the Rev. Jim Ridenhour officiating. Burial will be in the Bethlehem United Methodist Church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at the home, 234 Roundup Drive.

Memorials may be made to the Building Fund of Bethlehem United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 167, Bishopville, SC 29010 or to Lee County Care Center, P.O. Box 464, Bishopville, SC 29010.

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

Samuel Eugene Steele, Sr - April 28, 2014

Claremont Lodge No 64 Ancient Free Masons

Manning, SC 

Samuel Eugene Steele, Sr., 78, widower of Joan Davis Steele, died Monday, April 28, 2014, at the home of his son in Alcolu.

Born February 29, 1936, in Sumter, he was a son of the late George William Steele, Sr. and the late Louise Priest Steele Haley. He was a member of the National Guard, Claremont Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, Scottish Rite, Jamil Shrine and an active member of Cross Roads Bible Fellowship Church.

He is survived by a son, Samuel E. "Gene" Steele, Jr. (Charlene) of Alcolu; a daughter, Tamara "Tammy" Steele Cornwell (Brian) of Sumter; five grandchildren, Katie Steele, Kristin Steele and Kelsey Steele, all of Alcolu, Mary Beth Cornwell and Bryson Steele Cornwell, both of Sumter; two brothers, George Steele (Betty) and Billy Steele (Cecilia), both of Sumter; a sister, Alvenia Ottosson (Andy) of Sumter; a sister-in-law, Mary Ann Shands (Lynn) of Texas; and two nieces, Leigh Ann Tyler of Texas and Allison Warren of Massachusetts; and a host of other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a stepfather, Ned Haley, who raised him from a very young age; and two brothers, Bobby Steele and A.J. Haley.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 3, 2014, at Cross Roads Bible Fellowship Church with the Rev. John Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Home Branch Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers will be Elders and Deacons of Cross Roads Bible Fellowship Church.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday at Cross Roads Bible Fellowship Church and other times at the home of his son and daughter-in-law, 3811 Alcolu Street, Alcolu.

The family would like to thank Hospice Care of Tri-County, with a special thanks to Kim, Margie, Sue and Andrew. During his greatest time of need, a special thanks to his private sitters, Sally Sumter, Sandra Davis, Betty Riley, Etta Abrams, Angela Fullwood, Blenda Hayes and Ida Golden.

Memorials may be made to Cross Roads Bible Fellowship Church, P.O. Box 449, Manning, SC 29102 or to Home Branch Baptist Church, 1667 Stone Road, Manning, SC 29102.

Stephens Funeral Home & Crematory, 304 N. Church Street, Manning, is in charge of arrangements, (803) 435-2179. www.stephensfuneralhome.org

Belated - Lohman D. Reiter II

Lohman Dale Reiter II, beloved husband of Adele Corbett Reiter, died on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014, at Covenant Place.

Mr. Reiter was a native of Green Bay, Wis. He was a son of the late Lohman D. Sr. and Violet Richard Reiter. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1958, following graduation from East High School in Green Bay. He earned his commission in 1969, following graduation from Indiana University with a bachelor of science in business. He later received a master of science degree in management from Troy State University. He retired from the United States Air Force Medical Service Corps in 1983 after a 25-year career.

Following his Air Force career, he earned his law degree from the University of South Carolina in 1985. He practiced law in Sumter from 1986 until his retirement in 2006, most recently with the firm of Young, Reiter, Keffer and Donnald. He was a member of the American, South Carolina and the Sumter County Bar Associations and the American and South Carolina Trail Lawyer Associations.

He was past president of the Sumter Lions Club, a master Mason, a member of Claremont Lodge No. 64, and a life member of the York Rite Bodies of South Carolina. He was a member of American Legion Post 15. He was also a life member of the Military Officers Association of America and was a past president of the Santee-Wateree Chapter. He was an avid golfer and was a member of the Godfather's Group at Sunset Country Club.

He is survived by his wife Adele Corbett Reiter of Sumter; one sister and brother-in-law, Ellen Reiter Lindberg Fuhriman and Crae Fuhriman of Green Bay.

In addition to his parents, he was just recently preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Adele Reinfelder Corbett, on Jan. 31, 2014.

The family has decided to have a Liturgy of Christian Burial, which will be offered at St. Anne Catholic Church for Lohman and his mother-in-law, Adele Corbett, at 11 a.m. Saturday with the Rev. Thomas Burke, C.SS.R officiating.

Burial for Lohman Dale Reiter II will be held at the Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sumter Lions Club, P.O. Box 2513, Sumter, SC 29151 or to St. Anne Catholic Church, 216 E. Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150.

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

John Calvin Hodge November 5, 1926 - March 16, 2014

Sumter, SC

John Calvin Hodge, 87, husband of Rosa Way Hodge, passed away Sunday, March 16, 2014, at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.

Born Nov. 5, 1926, in Sumter County, he was the younger son of the late Elisha and Mildred Stone Hodge. He was a graduate of Edmunds High School. Shortly after graduation, he entered the U.S. Navy as a seaman second class and served during World War II in the Pacific Theater. After the war, he worked as a sales representative for Gulf Oil Corp. In 1960, he opened his own business, Hodge’s Gulf Service Center on the corner of Liberty and Washington streets in Sumter. Years later, he opened Hodge’s Exxon on Broad Street at Wesmark Boulevard in Sumter. He retired in 1999 to spend more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

He loved his Lord Jesus Christ, the church, and music. He served as music director at New Salem Baptist Church for 47 years. He also served the church as a Sunday school teacher, a deacon and trustee. He was a Mason, former Omar Shriner, a member of the American Legion and the VFW. He also loved playing racquetball at the Sumter YMCA as long as his health allowed.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years; two daughters, LaVonne Hodge Bailey (Tommy) of Greenwood and Connie Hodge Cuthbertson (DeWayne) of Rutherfordton, N.C.; three grandchildren, Michael Thomas Bailey (Lauren), Alicia Bailey Keely (Nick) and Caely Elizabeth Cuthbertson; one brother, Dargan A. Hodge of Manning; a niece, Marlene Hodge of Manning; and a nephew, Keith L. Hodge of Manning.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at New Salem Baptist Church with the Rev. Kevin Massey and the Rev. Dr. Tony Gould officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Michael Bailey, Keith Hodge, Roy Alsbrooks, Chuck Mangham, Leon Stone and Alan Pinkerton.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to New Salem Baptist Church, 2500 W. Oakland Ave., Sumter, SC 29154.

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

MUST READ - House Speaker Rigging Outcome of Ethics Case? | The Nerve

House Speaker Rigging Outcome of Ethics Case? | The Nerve

"...Despite his public profession of innocence, though, Harrell in recent days reportedly has been working behind the scenes to make his ethics case go away through a legal tactic that, a review by The Nerve found, hasn’t been tried in recent memory by a target of a state grand jury investigation, and doesn’t appear to be authorized under state law or by court order to be done in secret.

The State newspaper revealed last week, citing unnamed law enforcement sources, that Harrell’s lawyers want a closed hearing before Circuit Judge Robert Hood – a relatively new judge assigned to the state grand jury – to argue that Wilson should be removed from their client’s case because of an unspecified conflict of interest.

It’s not the first apparent move by Harrell to use his authority as House speaker to better position himself in his ethics case. The Nerve reported last month that if Harrell is indicted by the state grand jury, Supreme Court Chief Justice Jean Toal would select the judge to oversee his trial. Harrell actively campaigned for Toal, who beat Justice Costa Pleicones last month for another term as chief justice in a rare judicial race in the General Assembly.

Toal, through her court clerk, declined to say when questioned by The Nerve whether she would remove herself from Harrell’s case if he is indicted..."

Nina Price Hall - Saturday, 25 March, 2014

Edited Notice for re-posting: 

Today at 9:05 AM, March 15, 2014, Nina Price Hall passed away at Gwinnett Medical in Georgia. Nina was 83 years old and in failing health for the last two years.  Her kidneys were only operating at about 20% and the stress on the rest of the body was just too much for her weak heart.

The first viewing  will be at Wages & Sons Funeral home, Monday Evening 5-8 PM

1031 Lawrenceville Hwy.  (Hwy. 29 S.)

Lawrenceville Ga.

Ph.# 770-277-4550

The second Viewing will be at Norton Funeral Home, Wednesday, 19 March, 2014,  12- 2 PM

Main St.

Bishopville S.C.

Burial to be at Turkey Creek Cemetery, 2:30 PM

Turkey Creek, S.C.

Cemetery is about 10 miles outside if Bishopville

Robert "Bob" Eldridge Stokes (Fram) - Friday, March 7, 2014

Robert "Bob" Eldridge Stokes 

CHAPIN, SC

Graveside service for Robert "Bob" Eldridge Stokes, 77, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 10, 2014, in Hebron United Methodist Church Cemetery, 3471 Una Road, Bishopville, SC 29010. The Rev. George Rushe and the Rev. Jerry McManus, Sr. will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service at the graveside and also from 3-5 p.m. at the residence. Mr. Stokes died Friday, March 7, 2014. Born in Bishopville, SC, he was a son of the late Eldridge E. and Hallie McLeod Stokes. Bob was a graduate of Bishopville High School and also Newberry College, where he majored in education and played on the football team. He was employed with Scott Foresman as a textbook representative for many years. Surviving are his wife, Eula Mozingo Stokes of Chapin, SC; son, Brad (Suzy) Stokes of Chapin, SC; daughter, Brandon (Dr. Jeff) Queen of Knoxville, TN; sister, Sarah (Rick) Steadman of Mount Pleasant, SC; granddaughter, Mallory Stokes of Columbia, SC; nieces, Mackie Steadman (Mike) Talley, Sarah Ann Steadman; nephew, Andy Steadman; stepdaughter, Lisa (Marsh) Burckhalter of Aiken, SC; stepson, Rip (Amber) Lorick of Austin, TX; stepgrandchildren, Lucy and Marsh Burckhalter. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jeanne Stokes Kummero. Memorials may be made to the Hebron United Methodist Church, c/o Chip Clanton, 242 Woodham Rd., Bishopville, SC 29010. Brown-Pennington-Atkins Funeral HOme, Hartsville, is serving the family. Online condolences can be given atwww.bpafuneralhome.com.

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=robert-eldridge-stokes-bob&pid=170096812&fhid=8930#storylink=cpy

Suzanne Bedenbaugh Arrington - Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Suzanne Bedenbaugh Arrington

Easley

Suzanne Bedenbaugh Arrington, 70, of 112 Barnett Way, wife of the late William "Bill" Arrington, passed away Wednesday, March 5, 2014 at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born in Camden, SC, a daughter of the late Kenneth Wilson and Susie Burns Bendenbaugh, Mrs. Arrington retired as a teacher with Willow Drive Elementary School. She was a member of Lifechurch, 199 Thomas Mill Road in Dacusville.

Mrs. Arrington was an inspiration to many because of her perseverance through her disabilities. Although her disabilities removed her from the public classroom, she continued to allow her passion foe teaching to influence young children through ministry at the church.

Surviving are two sons, George Edward "E" Myers (Holly), Kenneth Earl Myers (Kathleen); a daughter, Melissa Leigh Myers Albertson (Rev. Chad); one brother, Kenneth Bedenbaugh; two sisters, Sylvia Hendley and Sandra Leitner; grandchildren, Eddie Myers,III, Heather DeJesus, JD, Cullen, Garrett, Rachel and Ashleigh, Andrew, Mary Beth and Caroline Albertson.

Memorial services will at 5:00 PM PM Friday at Lifechurch.

Visitation will be from 3:00 until 4:45 PM Friday at the church, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Children's Ministry of Lifechurch, 199 Thomas Mill Road, Easley, SC 29640

The family is at the residence.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.

Shawn Holly Myers January 31, 2014

Shawn Holly Myers, 44, loving husband of Elizabeth Shaw Myers, was born in Charleston, SC, on February 20, 1969, and died suddenly on January 31, 2014. He was an adoring father to Allen Alexander Myers and Emily Elizabeth Myers, both of the home. He was a devoted son to his mother, Linda Hughes Myers, grandson to the late Riddick and Hazel Shingler Myers and son-in-law to Brenda Outlaw Shaw and the late Dr. John Whitworth Shaw III. He was a graduate of Middleton High School and Winthrop University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration, with an emphasis on Management. His college years blessed him with lifelong friendships, formed as a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. He began his professional career as an Accounts Representative for GMAC and a Sales Representative with PYA/Monarch. At the time of his death, Shawn was a Financial Advisor, Associate Vice President – Investment Officer with Wells Fargo Advisors. He was also a member of Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church.

Shawn’s greatest joy was the time he spent with his wife of 13 years and his beautiful children. He spent countless hours preparing for the many soccer and football teams he coached over the years. Shawn touched many children’s lives as a positive role model both off and on the Daniel Island Youth playing fields. He loved being outdoors – fishing, playing tennis and golf, Clemson tailgating, and boating. Shawn was a simple man with a warm smile and generous heart that lived a life that was pleasing to God as he was at his best serving others and caring for those he loved.

A service to celebrate Shawn’s life will be held at 3:00 pm Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church, 302 Hibben Street, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 with Reverend Tom Herrington officiating. Burial will follow the service at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends following the burial, at their home. Readers will be Bill Sawyer and Lance Feldman. Pallbearers will be Mark Chickering, Jay Crane, Jamie Deveaux, Pat Birt, Ryan Miles and Andy Minaudo. Honorary Pallbearers will be his fraternity brothers: Adam Brumfield, Jon Gruber, Jay Johnson, Pat Knebusch, Monty Montague, Carl Pundt, PJ Rescigno, Kevin Smith, Vance Stricklin, and Roc Swindler. McAlister-Smith Funeral Home is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Daniel Island Community Fund, 130 River Landing Drive, Suite 1C, Daniel Island, SC 29492. The purpose of this fund is to honor Shawn’s memory and to enrich the children’s athletic programs in the community in which he so selflessly dedicated his time and energy.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.McAlister-Smith.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, MT PLEASANT CHAPEL, 1520 RIFLE RANGE RD., MT PLEASANT, SC (843) 884-3833. 

Wilbur McPerry “Mac” Rumph |

Wilbur McPerry “Mac” Rumph

Wilbur McPerry “Mac” Rumph, 69 of Columbia, SC entered into eternal rest on Friday January 31, 2014 at the home of his cousin Rhonda W. Hart in St. George.

Funeral services will be held 2 PM Tuesday February 4, 2014 in the Bryant Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the St. George Cemetery. The family will receive friends an hour before service. Pallbearers will be his beloved University of South Carolina Ladies Softball Team.

Mac was born in Spartanburg on March 11, 1944 a son of the late Marion William and Eunice Bunch Rumph McLeod. He was a retired teacher and administrator with Orangeburg and Spartanburg District 6 (Dorman) public schools and his last employment was a History instructor at Campbell University, Fort Bragg Campus and Central Carolina Community College in Stanfort, NC. He was a graduate of Clemson University, Appalachian State University with MA in History and University of South Carolina with a ABD. After graduation he was commission as second Lieutenant in the US Army and served in Vietnam. He was a Life member of the VFW and was an avid fan and supporter of the USC Ladies Softball team.

Surviving: a niece, Korye H. (Kirk) McCutchen, Bishopville, a nephew, Kerry (Leah) Hancock, Turbeville, brother-in-law, Don Hancock, Sumter; his aunt, Lucy Rae (Kenneth) Doyle; cousins, Rhonda (Kevin) Hart, David (Debbie) Wimberly, Vonnie (Linwood) Shieder, Nancy (Joe Kirby) Wicker, Marty Rumph, Virginia Rawlings and Barbara Brown. Great-nephews and Nieces; Kody, Emme, and Chloe McCutchen and Dusty Hancock. He was predeceased by his sister, Marion Diann Hancock.

Memorials may be made to The Gamecock Club, Ladies Softball Team, 1304 Heyward Street, Columbia, SC 29477 or the American Cancer Society, Pancreatic Cancer, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.

Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneral.info.

Charles Thomas “Junior” Brotherton Jr., 47 died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013

DALZELL — Charles Thomas “Junior” Brotherton Jr., 47, husband of Susanne Preusser Brotherton, died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013, at his home.

Born in Laredo, Texas, he was a son of Laura Mae Jensen Brotherton and the late Charles Thomas Brotherton Sr. He was formerly employed by Midlands Gas Co. and more recently was the service manager with McCarty’s Emporium.

Survivors include his wife of Dalzell; mother of Sumter; two step-children, Jason Oakes (Lori) of Sumter and Lorraine Oakes of Dalzell; five brothers, John Brotherton (Janet) of Newland, N.C., Robert Brotherton (Karen) of Springfield, Mo., David Brotherton (Amy) of Calif., Paul Brotherton (Linda) of Sumter and Tyler Brotherton of Spartanburg; and two sisters, Rose Marie Sestokas (Terrance) of Sumter and Ruth Ann Meyers (Don David) of Omaha, Neb.

He was preceded in death by a nephew, Ryan Brotherton.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Michael Bowman officiating.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Friday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home.

The family would like to express a special thanks to the staff of Tuomey Hospice for all of their care and compassion.

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

Jessie Brown Johnson, 88 died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014

Jessie Brown Johnson, 88, wife of Willie James Johnson, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Sumter, she was a daughter of the late James and Cornelia Nunnery Brown. Mrs. Johnson was a member of Bible Fellowship Church and was formerly employed by Cover Manufacturing Co. as a supervisor.

Surviving are her husband of Sumter; a daughter, Gloria Williams and husband Norman “Butch” of Sumter; two grandchildren, Melonie (Evans) Tindal and Jess (Melanie) Williams III; and four grandchildren, Jesse Tindal, Hannah Williams, Claire Williams and Isabella Williams.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, James H. Brown and Leroy Brown.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Chapel of Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home with the Rev. Jim Ketchum officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday at Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and other times at the home, 1175 Cutleaf Drive.

Memorials may be made to Bible Fellowship Church, 227 Broad St., Sumter, SC 29150.

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.

Leslie Wilbur Griffin, Sr., 85, died Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Leslie Wilbur Griffin, Sr., 85, died Tuesday, December 31, 2013, at the Tuomey Regional Medical Center. He was preceded in death by his wife, Neloise “Nell” Griffin, in 2008.

Born August 2, 1928 in Sumter County, he was a son of the late Collin Griffin and the late Martha McLeod Griffin.

Mr. Griffin graduated from the University of South Carolina with a B.A. and a Masters degree in Criminal Justice. He was also a graduate of the F.B.I. Academy.

Mr. Griffin was Sumter’s Chief of Police from March 1968 to May 1984, and served as both police chief and fire chief for two-years.

Mr. Griffin was a member and past president of the SC Chapter of the F.B.I. National Academy Associates, a life member, past president and member of the Board of Directors of the SC Law Enforcement Officers Assn., a member and past president of the SC Police Chiefs Assn., and a life member of The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). He was an active member of the Sumter County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, a member of the Board of Directors of Sumter Crimestoppers, Inc. and also served as a past president and member of the Sumter Chamber of Commerce and the Air Force Association.

An Air Force veteran and retiree from the Air Force Reserve, he was an aircrew member with the Air Transport Command during the Berlin Airlift. He served as an O.S.I. special agent in Korea. He was a life member of the D.A.V., a member of the VFW and was an active member and past commander of American Legion Post #15.

He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and a member of the Faholo Sunday School class for 58 years.

Surviving are three sons, Kerry Mandeville (Jan) of Columbia, Leslie “Hap”, Jr. (Etna) and Douglas Griffin (Mary Dale) both of Sumter; a sister, Allene Ross (George) of Sumter; a brother, John Griffin of Sumter; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M. Saturday at Trinity United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Reginald Thackston officiating.

Burial will be in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Terry Griffin, Harold Johnson, Joseph M. Floyd, Eugene Spann, Bruce Griffin and Rev. Richard Hampton. Honorary Pallbearers will be members of the Faholo Sunday School class, and retired and active duty members of the Sumter Police Department.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 P.M. Friday at the Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and at other times at his son Hap's home at 2740 Fenimore Drive.

Memorials may be made to Destination Trinity at Trinity United Methodist Church, and to American Legion Post #15.

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

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad Street, Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.