MILDRED D. BRADLEY
UNION, S.C.

Judith "Judy" Ralph
Union, SC

Mrs. Judith "Judy" O’Shields Ralph, age 69, wife of Dr. Earl K. Ralph, died Wednesday, April 29, 2009.

Mrs. Ralph was born in Union, SC, December 2, 1939, a daughter of the late Luther and Laura O’Shields. She was a 1958 graduate of Union High School; the University of South Carolina and Memorial University of St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada. Mrs. Ralph taught high school biology in Rossville, Georgia and Chattanooga, Tennessee. She taught at Holy Heart of Mary Regional High School in St. John’s for thirty years. Mrs. Ralph retired in 1998 and moved back to Union in the year 2000. She substituted at Union High School for four years. She loved young people and taught them for thirty-five years.

Survivors include a son, Dr. Scott K. Ralph and wife Valerie formally of Boston, now in Oakville, Ontario Canada; one precious granddaughter, Victoria Alexandra, whom she loved dearly; a sister, Doris Hodge and husband Charles; a brother, Buck O’Shields and wife Doris; a special sister-in-law, Janet Ralph and husband Samuel Scott of Boston, MA and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great-nephews. Mrs. Ralph was predeceased by two infant daughters, three sisters and four brothers. Mrs. Ralph was a member of The Episcopal Church of the Nativity. Her church family always held a special place in her heart.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, May 2, 2009 at The Episcopal Church of the Nativity with Father Robert Long officiating. The family will receive friends in the Parish Hall after the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to York Place, The Episcopal Home for Children, 234 Kings Mt. Street, York, SC 29745.

The family is at the home, 106 Beechtree Place, Union, SC 29379.
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Cleo Vinson Horne
Union, SC

Mrs. Cleo Vinson Horne, age 77 of Pineneedle Rd., Union, widow of Charles B. Horne passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at Oakmont of Union after a period of declining health.

Mrs. Horne was born in Union, September 19, 1931, a daughter of the late William "Bill" Vinson and Ida James Vinson. She was a graduate of Jonesville High School and retired from Cone Mill-Carlisle Finishing. Mrs. Horne was a member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church where she was a member of the UMW and a former member of the Choir and former MYF Leader. A Master Gardner, Mrs. Horne was a member of the Home and Garden Club and the Good Neighbors Garden Club.

Surviving are two sons: Kenneth Horne and wife Jean of Union and Earl "Butch" Horne and wife Ann of Summerville; a sister, Lena Scales of Union; five grandchildren: Tonya Johnson and husband Rodney, Shannon Sumner and husband Richie, Brad Horne and wife Kendra, Jonathan Horne and wife Jen, and Michelle Crocker and husband Brian; and seven great-grandchildren. Mrs. Horne was predeceased by two sisters: Frances Moyer and Willie Rae McKinney and one brother: Grady Vinson.

Funeral services will be held 4:00 PM Friday, May 1, 2009 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church conducted by Rev. Christopher Greene, Rev. Carl Harris and Rev. Brad Goodale. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Mrs. Horne’s grandsons and nephews.

Members of the A.G. Carter Sunday School Class of Bethlehem United Methodist Church and members of the garden clubs are asked to sit in a group.

Visitation will be held 7:00 until 9:00 PM Thursday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Bethlehem United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1132, Union, SC, 29379.

The family is at the home of her son: Kenneth and Jean Horne, 151 Oak Grove Rd., Union, SC, 29379.
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Mr. Kenneth Lee Benton, age 48 of 121 College Street, Union, SC died Monday, April 27, 2009 at his home.

Mr. Benton was born in Gaffney, SC, August 9, 1960, a son of Kenneth B. Benton and Kathleen Painter Benton of the home. He was a former construction worker.

Surviving in addition to his parents are a sister, Tammy Lynn Petrea and husband Kent of Concord, NC; three brothers: Mitchell Wayne Benton of Union, Charles Dennis Blalock of Tennessee and Jerry Ray "Butch" Benton and finance Rhonda of Union; four nieces and three nephews.

Graveside services will be held 4:00 PM Thursday, April 30, 2009 at Rosemont Cemetery conducted by Rev. Billy Blackwell and Rev. William Blanton.

Visitation will be held 7:00-9:00 PM Wednesday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family is at the home, 121 College Street, Union, SC 29379.
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Gracie Allen Adams
Union, SC

Mrs. Gracie Allen Adams, age 81 of 1300 W. Main Street, Union, SC passed away Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at Oakmont of Union.

Mrs. Adams was born in Union, SC July 13, 1927, a daughter of the late Rufus Allen and Esther Fowler Allen. She was a graduate of Union High School and was the former owner of Pantry Shelf Food Store. Mrs. Adams was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church. She was first married to the late Linder Adams and predeceased by her loving companion of thirty-four years, Billy Register.

Surviving are a daughter, Pamela Adams of Jonesville; a son, Sam Adams and wife Teresa of Newton, NC; two grandchildren: Brittany Arrington of Jonesville and Derek Adams of Columbia; a niece, Judy Wood of Columbia and two step-children, Lynn Sligh and Gary Register both of Columbia.

Graveside services will be held 1:00 PM Thursday, April 30, 2009 at Rosemont Cemetery conducted by Rev. Jerry Lawson.

Visitation will be held 7:00-9:00 PM Wednesday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to True Care Humane Society, P.O. Box 525, Union, SC 29379.

The family is at the home of her daughter, Pamela Adams, 3805 Buffalo West Springs Hwy., Jonesville, SC 29353.
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Allen Dale Coile
Union, SC

Mr. Allen Dale Coile, age 45, husband of Tammie Brooks Coile of 310 River Hills Rd., Union, SC died Sunday, April 26, 2009 at his home.

Mr. Coile was born in Union, SC, May 12, 1963, a son of Doyle "Dale" Coile of Mill Springs, NC and the late Carolyn Dyer Coile. He was a 1981 graduate of Union High School; was employed with Kemet Electrical in Greenville and was a member of Putman Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to his wife and father are a daughter, Brittany Coile Smith and husband Brad of Anderson; a son, Allen Derrick Coile of the home; a step-mother, Brenda Coile of Mill Springs, NC; a sister, Teresa Yount and husband Rick of Chesnee; a granddaughter, Ashlyn Denise Smith and a number of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at Putman Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Joey Shetley. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Warren Harrison, Mark Austin, Barry Bobo, Ricky Hayes, Kenny Scott and Tony Peay.

Visitation will be held 7:00-9:00 PM Tuesday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Allen Dale Coile Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC 29379.

The family is at the home, 310 River Hills Rd., Union, SC 29379.
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Betty Jean Revis
Buffalo, SC

Mrs. Betty Jean Goins Revis, age 74 of 130 South Street, Buffalo, SC, widow of Ernest Revis died Monday, April 27, 2009 at her home.

Mrs. Revis was born in Buffalo, SC January 27, 1935, a daughter of the late David Jackson Goins, Sr and Lona Esther Johnson Goins. She was formerly employed with United Merchants - Buffalo Plant and Griffith’s Café in Buffalo. Mrs. Revis was a member of New Hope Baptist Church. She loved gospel music, caring for the sick, planting flowers, deer watching and banana pudding.

Surviving are a daughter, Denise Phipps and husband Jackie of Buffalo; a sister, Peggy Goins of the home; a brother, Howard "Cooter" Goins and wife Margie; a sister-in-law, Yvonne Childers all of Buffalo; a granddaughter, Jill Phipps and friend Jeffery Millwood and a great-granddaughter, Madison Phipps (Millwood). She was predeceased by a son, Mark Revis; four sisters: Miss Ruth Goins, Magdeline Millwood, Thelma Brock and Addie Mae Greene and five brothers: Charlie, D.J., Elmer, Edward and Bobby Goins.

Funeral services will be held 4:00 PM Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at New Hope Baptist Church. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens.

Active pallbearers will be Eddie Goins, David Goins, Chris Hammond, Carl Culpepper, Chuck Ison, Andy Eller, Wayne Griffith and Billy Ray Holt.

The following are asked to assemble at the church at 3:45 PM to form the honorary escort: Brad Thompson, Jimmy Maness, Gerald Goins, Wilson Moseley, Leroy Belue, Jr, James Floyd Willard, Jake Boulware and Maxie Ponder.

Visitation will be held 2:30-4:00 PM Wednesday in the church prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to New Hope Baptist Church Choir Fund, P.O. Box 728, Buffalo, SC 29321.

The family is at the home, 130 South Street, Buffalo.
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Josephine Austin Todd
Buffalo, SC

Mrs. Josephine Austin Todd, age 69 of 1130 Linersville Rd., Buffalo, SC, widow of Roy Austin Todd died Friday, April 24, 2009 at her home.

Mrs. Todd was born in Union, SC, July 31, 1939, a daughter of the late Nellie Kate Austin. She was a retired textile worker and was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Surviving are a daughter, Vicky Beheler and special friend Danny "DD" Davis; two sons: Monte Todd and Ricky Todd and wife Patsy; a sister, Lula Fowler; a brother, W.S. Austin; five grandchildren: Ashley and Justin Beheler, Austin "Sambo" Todd, Jimmy "Little Man" Rhinehart and wife Misty, Patricia Norman and special friend Bernard Jeter all of Union and Billy Jo Story of Batesburg; five great-grandchildren: Brandon Mobley of Union, Zac Hubbard of Gaffney, Cassidy Mobley of Rock Hill, B.J. Jeter and Jayna Rhinehart of Union, Nicholas Todd and Jace Mattchett of Batesburg. Mrs. Todd was predeceased by two daughters, Cheryl Rhinehart and Patricia Todd; a granddaughter, Lynn Rhinehart and three brothers, Billy, George and Fred Austin.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at S.R. Holcombe Funeral Chapel conducted by Rev. Ricky Cook. Burial will be in Rosemont Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Thomas Austin, Charlie Cameron, Jimmy Todd, Shannon Austin, Larry "Foot" Lawson and Johnny "Hook" Fisher.

Mrs. Todd will be taken to the home, 1130 Linersville Rd., Buffalo where the family will receive friends 6:00-8:00 PM Tuesday evening.
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Mr. George Rickey Millwood, age 59 of 417 Monarch Hwy, Union, SC died Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Dorn VA Medical Center, Columbia, SC.

Mr. Millwood was born in Union, SC April 24, 1949, a son of the late Feris "Pete" Millwood and Eula "Pat" Kennett Millwood. He was a graduate of Union High School and was formerly employed with Teepak, Inc and Walmart. Mr. Millwood was a Veteran of the US Army having served in the Vietnam War. He was a member of Ottaray Baptist Church.

Surviving are a brother, Danny Kaye Millwood of Union; a cousin and brother, Tony Nelson and wife Christi and their daughters, Chasity and Amber of Clinton; a cousin, Mary Jo Warren and husband Donnie of Union; two nieces: Angela "Angie" Kay Hines and Stacy Lynn Allen; a nephew, Mark Daniel Millwood; two great-nieces and a great-nephew.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Sunday, April 26, 2009 at Ottaray Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Jerry Lawson. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens with Military Honors.

Active pallbearers will be Danny Hawkins, Donnie Vinson, Whitey Winzenreid, Joe Moore, Robbie Jett and Wylie Scruggs.

Visitation will be held 7:00-8:30 PM Saturday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Ottaray Baptist Church, 200 Lowe Street, Union, SC 29379.

The family is at the home of his brother, Danny Kaye Millwood, 2416 Lockhart Hwy., Union, SC 29379.
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Raymond Cecil Allen
Union, SC

Mr. Raymond Cecil Allen, age 85, husband of Ruby Casey Allen of 195 Armory Rd., Union, SC died Thursday, April 23, 2009 at Wallace Thomson Hospital after brief illness.

Mr. Allen was born in Chester County, SC December 6, 1923, a son of the late James A. Allen and Beulah Grant Allen. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy having served in World War II. Mr. Allen retired as a supervisor from Union Mill; was a member of Lockhart Masonic Lodge and attended First Baptist Church of Lockhart. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Surviving in addition to his wife of sixty-seven years are two daughters: Virginia Sumner and husband Bill and Susan Boling all of Lancaster; three sons: Phillip Allen and wife Wanda of Villa Rica, Ga, Kevin Allen and wife Debbie and Joseph "Joey" Allen all of Lockhart; fifteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, April 25, 2009 at New Hope Methodist Church Cemetery in Chester, SC conducted by Pastor Bill Sumner and Rev. Ben Hill.

Visitation will be held 6:00-7:30 PM Friday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Mid-South Division, Inc., Attn: Shirley Watters, 1100 Ireland Way, Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35205 or to a charity of one’s choice.

The family is at the home, 195 Armory Rd., Union, SC 29379.
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Charlie Robinson
Formerly of Union

Mr. Charlie Davidson Robinson, age 81 of 541 Park Lane, S.E. Marietta, Ga, formerly of Union, died Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at WellStar Kennstone in Marietta, Ga.

Mr. Robinson was born in Union, SC, July 18, 1927, a son of the late Charlie D. Robinson and Vera Bishop Robinson. He was a 1945 graduate of Union High; 1951 graduate of Wofford College and a 1956 graduate of the University of Houston. Mr. Robinson was a Veteran of the U.S. Merchant Marines. He retired as Credit Manager with Shell Oil Company after thirty-five years of service. Mr. Robinson was a member of First Baptist Church, Union and attended several area churches in Marietta, Ga. He was a member of the Historical Society of Atlanta and numerous other organizations. Mr. Robinson enjoyed collecting antiques, oil paintings and walking through old cemeteries. He was a loving and faithful brother.

Surviving are a sister, Martha Robinson of Union, special cousins: Lucille Barnette of Greenville, Frances Gault of Union and Dawn Taylor of Spartanburg. Mr. Robinson was predeceased by a sister, Vera Nell Robinson and two brothers, Hervey H. Robinson and Eddie Monte Robinson.

Graveside services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, April 24, 2009 at Forest Lawn Cemetery conducted by Mr. Al Smith and Rev. Robert Emory.
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Clabern T. Wood, Sr.
Buffalo, SC

Mr. Clabern T. Wood, Sr., age 70, husband of Jean Anderson Wood of 151 Forest Meadow Avenue, Buffalo, SC died Sunday, April 19, 2009 at Wallace Thomson Hospital.

Mr. Wood was born in Mercer County, West Virginia June 13, 1938, a son of the late Elbert C. Wood and Nora Alice Wood Wood. He retired from the U.S. Army having served three tours in the Vietnam War and was a member of the Green Beret. Mr. Wood was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, a member of Duncan Masonic Lodge # 256 and a former member of the Buffalo Fire Department and the Cross Keys Fire Department.

Surviving in addition to his wife of forty-four years are a daughter, Susan Lankford and husband Robin of Buffalo; two sons: Elbert Wood of Union and Clay Wood and wife Vickie of Gaston, SC; a sister, Annie Anders of Ramrock, TX; four grandchildren: Trevor Lankford and Brooke Lankford both of Buffalo, Josh Wood and Amber Wood both of Lockhart; three step-grandchildren: Brett Austin, Brandon Austin and Krysta Cartee all of Gaston and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 4:00 PM Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at Buffalo Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Ronald Wood. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens with Military Honors and Masonic Rites.

Active pallbearers will be Richie Brown, Dr. John Flood, Les Gibson, Kris Booth, Donnie Crawford and Chris Boulware. Members of the Buffalo Fire Department and Cross Keys Fire Department are asked to assemble at the church at 3:45 PM to form the Honorary Escort.

Visitation will be held 6:00-8:00 PM Tuesday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family is at the home, 151 Forest Meadow Avenue, Buffalo, SC 29321.
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James G. Gory
Union, SC

James Gerard Gory, infant son of Kyle Gory and Constance Lipsey, of 101 Kennan Ave. Union died April 18, 2009 at Wallace Thomson Hospital.

James was born in Union, December 23, 2008.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his material grandparent: Constance Lipsey of Union; paternal grandparents: Sallie Gory of Jonesville and Billy Smith of Union; great-grandfathers: Kenneth Tiner of Pauline; and James Gory of Jonesville; and numerous aunts and uncles. James was predeceased by a grandfather: Chuck Lipsey.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Forest Lawn Cemetery conducted by Rev Scott Cobb.

The family will receive friends Monday April 20, 2009 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family is at the home: 101 Kennan Avenue, Union, SC. 29379.

Memorials may be made to the James G. Gory Fund P.O. Box 293, Union, SC. 29379.
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MARTIN F. PONDER
UNION, S.C

Mr. Martin F. "Tiny" Ponder, age 63, formerly of Union, died Thursday April 16, 2009 at the C.M. Tucker Nursing Center in Columbia.

Mr. Ponder was born in Buffalo, October 11, 1945 a son of the late Asby and Beatrice Woody Ponder. He was formerly employed with Pinkerton Security at Timken, Tyger River Plant in Union.

Surviving are two daughters: Amy Moss and husband Jeffrey of Pauline and Ashley Ponder of Newberry; two sons: Brian Ponder and wife Donna of Union and Daniel Ponder of New Orleans, LA; five grandchildren: Logan, Tori, Noah, Katie, and Joshua; one sister: Geraldine Barber of Union; two brothers: Thomas Ponder of Buffalo and Sam Ponder of Asheville, NC. Mr. Ponder was predeceased by a sister: Mildred Leonard and two brothers: George Ponder and Bruce Ponder.

Graveside services will be held 3:00 PM Saturday, April 18, 2009 at Union Memorial Gardens conducted by Rev. Ricky Cook.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 PM until 2:45 PM Saturday at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home prior to the service.

Memorials may be made to the Martin F. Ponder Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC, 29379.
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CYNTHIA G. WILLIAMS
BUFFALO, S.C.

Mrs. Cynthia Renee "Cindy" Gwinn Williams, age 47, wife of Robert W. Williams of 152 Dana Tara Lane, Buffalo, died at her home Tuesday, April 14, 2009.

Mrs. Williams was born in Panama City, FL, August 2, 1961, a daughter of the late Donald M. and Katherine Mary Rizzo Gwinn. She was a 1979 graduate of Union High School and a member of Sumner Memorial Baptist Church. Mrs. Williams was employed with Piggly Wiggly and previous Community Cash for 30 years. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

Surviving in addition to her husband are one daughter: Tiffany Williams and Travis Howell of Buffalo; two sons: Donnie Williams and wife Jessica of Buffalo and Justin Williams of the home; one sister: Alberta Ann Comtois and husband Wayne of Buffalo; three brothers: Guy Patrick Gwinn and wife Denise of Myrtle Beach; James Robert Gwinn of Wilmington, NC and William S. Gwinn, Sr. and wife Bonnie of Moorehead City, NC; four grandchildren: Kaleb and Hannah William, Emily and Jacob I. Howell; her in-laws: an aunt: Peggy Gwinn Riser and husband Bill of Columbia; an uncle: Randolph Gwinn and wife Wedie of Lexington, VA; her mother and father-in-law: Brenda and Wayne Williams of Buffalo; a sister-in-law: Kathy Sullivan of Buffalo; grandparents-in-law: Rev. Boyd Williams and wife Louse of Union.

Funeral services will be held 4:00 PM Friday, April 17, 2009 at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Chapel conducted by Rev. Dewayne Rueter and Rev. Boyd Williams. Burial will be in Rosemont Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Ronnie Huggins, William Garner, Joe Moore, Randy Canupp, Jack Rector and Tommy Sumner, Sr.

Friends and employees of Piggly Wiggly and Timken are asked to sit in a group.

Visitation will be held 6:00 until 8:00 PM Thursday evening at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Sumner Memorial Baptist Church, P.O. Box 59, Union, SC, 29379.

The family is at the home 152 Dana Tara Lane, Buffalo, SC, 29321.
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CECIL T. CANDLER
UNION, S.C.

Mr. Cecil Talmadge Candler, age 64,of 414 Pineneedle Rd.,Union, husband of Maxine Dillard Candler of 45 years, died Sunday, April, 12, 2009 at his home.

Mr. Candler was born in Lockhart, September 22, 1944 a son of the late Julius Howard and Winnie Davis Candler. He was a graduate of Union High School and retired from Cryovac in Duncan. Mr. Candler was a member of Mon Aetna Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to his wife are two daughters: Charlene C. Bailey and husband Roger of Jefferson, SC, and Stephanie C. Kitchens and husband David of Union; one sister: Julia Bobo and husband Jimmy of Spartanburg; three brothers: Howard Candler and wife Frances and Denver Candler and wife Joyce all of Union and Vester "Bud" Candler and wife Ruth of Spartanburg; four granddaughters: Allison, Kristen and Morgan Bailey and Anna Harris; one step-grandson: Michael Kitchens. Mr. Candler was predeceased by a son: Mark Candler.

Funeral services will be held 4:00 PM Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at Mon Aetna Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Benny Green and Rev. Robert Branch. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens.

Active pallbearers will be Ronnie Eaves, Steve Crumley, Steve Davis, Victor Knight, Tony Rector and Ed Vess.

The following are asked to assemble at the church at 3:45PM Tuesday to form the honorary escort: Joey Candler, Jimmy Collins, Ronnie Smith, Bobby Joe Gibbs, Howard Davis, Herbie Smith, Dennis Greer, Daniel Finley and Jody Whiteneck.

Visitation will be held 6:00 until 8:00 PM Monday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of S.C., Union Unit, 408 N. Duncan ByPass, Suite 6, Union, SC, 29379.

The family is at the home, 414 Pineneedle Rd., Union, SC.
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ROY F. SMITH, SR.
UNION, S.C.

Mr. Roy F. Smith, Sr., age 81, husband of Eva Williams Smith of 838 Happy Valley Rd., Union, went home to be with the Lord, Monday, April 13, 2009 after a period of declining health.

Mr. Smith was born in Cowpens, November 27, 1927 a son of the late George and Luna Dixon Smith. He was a graduate of Union High School and a member of the1946 Union High School State Championship Baseball Team. Mr. Smith was a former pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers organization, a member of the Union County Athletic Hall of Fame and was listed in 2000 as one of the top 100 athletes of the century for the state of South Carolina. A veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during the Korean Conflict, he was a member of the Union American Legion Post # 22. He was a member of Beulah Baptist Church where he served as chairman of Deacons for many years, a former R.A. leader and was active in all aspects of the church’s work.

Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons: Ferrel Smith and wife Sharon of Rock Hill, Barry Smith and wife Chris of Union and Mark Smith and wife Stella of Spartanburg; one sister: Doris Wade of Chester; six grandchildren: Katherine Denio and husband C.J. and Michelle Smith all of Rock Hill, Jennifer Robbins and husband Bradley and Rhett Smith all of Union, Dillion Smith and Annie Smith both of Spartanburg; two great-grandsons: Kaleb Hinson and Jacob Denio both of Rock Hill. Mr. Smith was predeceased by two sisters: Ailene Crocker and Mildred Lamb.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at Beulah Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Mark Truitt and Rev. Austin Bennett. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Lynn Wade, Dennis Crocker, Michael Williams, Dolton Williams, Craig Walker and Rhett Smith.

Members of the Beulah Baptist Church Adult Sunday School Class and Deacons of the church are asked to sit in a group.

Visitation will be held 7:00 until 9:00 PM Tuesday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Beulah Baptist Church, c/o Donna Williams, 123 Carem Rd., Union, SC, 29379 or to the Regional Hospice Home, 686 Jeff Davis Dr., Spartanburg, SC, 29303.

The family is at the home, 838 Happy Valley Rd., Union, SC.
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SALLIE W. OLIVER
TRINITY, NC

Mrs. Sallie Elizabeth Willard Oliver, age 95, a native of Union and widow of Mack W. Oliver, Sr., died Thursday, April 9, 2009 at the Gray Brier Nursing Home in Trinity, NC.

Mrs. Oliver was born in Union, March 18, 1914, a daughter of the late Clarence A. and Leoney Willard. She was retired from United Merchants, Union Plant and was a member of Duncan Acres United Methodist Church.

Surviving is a son: Mack W. Oliver, Jr.; a grand-daughter: Elizabeth O. "Beth" Wooten and husband Bill; two great-grandchildren: Ashley Wooten and William Wooten all of Kernersville, NC, and several brothers and sisters. Mrs. Oliver was predeceased by a son, William Harold Oliver.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Saturday, April 11, 2009 at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home conducted by Rev. Tommy Bailey. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held from 2;00 until 3:00 PM Saturday prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Duncan Acres United Methodist Church, 417 Rice Ave., Union, SC, 29379.
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Edwin R. Whitehead
Union, SC

Mr. Edwin Raymond "Ed" Whitehead, age 79, husband of Edna West Whitehead of 564 Bishop Rd., Union, SC went home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at his home.

Mr. Whitehead was born in Union County, SC, September 14, 1929, a son of the late William Howard Whitehead and Evie Pruitt Whitehead. He was a Veteran of the US Army; retired from Union Packing and was a farmer. Mr. Whitehead was a member of Lower Fairforest Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, a Sunday School Teacher and held various offices within the church.

Surviving in addition to his wife of fifty-seven years are five daughters: Brenda Leonhardt and husband Doug of Union, Debbie Whitehead of Columbia, Karen Brock and husband Anthony of Buffalo, Marsha Barnette and husband Paul of Sumter and Beth Walker and husband Mark of Gaffney; six grandchildren: Haley Berry of Tennessee, Kim Osborne of Sumter, Kacie Barnette and Ginny Beth Brock both of Greenville, Megan Leonhardt of Buffalo and Kip Brock of Greenville; a great-grandson, Caleb Osborne of Sumter; two sisters: Minnie Lawson and Ruth Fallaw both of Union and a brother, Randolph Whitehead and wife Doris of Union. Mr. Whitehead was predeceased by three brothers: William Howard "WH", Benjamin and Frank Whitehead.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Friday, April 10, 2009 at Lower Fairforest Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Jim Cunningham, Rev. Michael Caldwell and Rev. Carroll Caldwell. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Charles Whitehead, Tommy Whitehead, James Whitehead, Robbie Whitehead, Ben Wages and Sammy Cook. The following are asked to assemble at the church at 2:45 PM Friday to form the honorary escort: Mr. Whitehead’s nephews and great-nephews, Deacons and former Deacons of Lower Fairforest Baptist Church, Leonard Smith, Ben Smith, Eddie Kendrick, Jr and Vic Bramlett.

Visitation will be held 6:00-8:00 PM Thursday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family is at the home, 564 Bishop Rd., Union, SC 29379.
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Sadye Gruver
Union, SC

Mrs. Sadye Vaughan Gruver, age 86, formerly of Hidden Hill Rd., Union, widow of Col. Bryan Gruver, Jr. went home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, April 7, 2009 at Oakmont of Union.

Mrs. Gruver was born in Union County, SC, February 9, 1923, a daughter of the late G. Frank Vaughan and Sadye Ashe Vaughan. She was a graduate of Union High School and attended Limestone College. Mrs. Gruver was a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

Surviving are two sons: Bryan F. Gruver and wife Susie of Union and Jon J. Gruver of Charleston; a brother, James M. Vaughan and wife Hassie of Union; three grandchildren: Deanna Kropp of Raleigh, NC, Jank Gruver of Union and Scott Gruver of Florida; three great-grandchildren: Brett Gruver of Union, Jimmy Kropp and Brittany Kropp both of Raleigh, NC and a niece, Donna Greene. Mrs. Gruver was predeceased by her twin sister, Connie V. Wetmore and a brother, Donald Vaughan.

The family will receive friends 2:00-3:00 PM Friday afternoon at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, Mid-South Division, Inc, Attn: Shirley Walters, 1100 Ireland Way, Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35205.

The family is at the home, 203 Hidden Hill Rd., Union, SC 29379.
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Charles O’Shields
Union, SC

Mr. Charles Arthur O’Shields, age 63, of 528 Lover’s Lane Rd., Union, SC, widower of Kathy Adams O’Shields went home to be with the Lord, Monday, April 6, 2009 at his home.

Mr. O’Shields was born in Union, SC, April 16, 1945, a son of Nell White O’Shields of Union and the late Lewis O’Shields. He was a graduate of Union High School; a Veteran of the U.S. Air Force and later retired from Tucker Tire & Auto. Mr. O’Shields enjoyed spending time with his family.

Surviving in addition to his mother are three sons: Justin O’Shields of the home, Chuck O’Shields of Spartanburg and Brad O’Shields of the home; a grandson, Zakary Andrew O’Shields of Spartanburg; a sister-in-law and caregiver, Candas Melissa Adams of the home; nephews and niece: Jeremy Shane Adams, Brandon Allen Hagan, Jonathan Adams, Jacob Dylan Adams and Brianna Kathleen Adams and a brother, Pat O’Shields of Union.

The family is at the home, 528 Lovers Lane Rd., Union where they will receive friends 5:00-8:00 PM Friday evening. A private burial will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank employees of Hospice Care of S.C., Union Unit for all the love and support shown to them daily.

Memorials may be made to the Charles O’Shields Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC 29379.
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Margaret E. Hamrick
Union, SC

Mrs. Margaret Frances Eubanks Hamrick, age 78, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on April 6, 2009 after a lengthy illness.

Mrs. Hamrick was born in Buffalo, SC October 15, 1930, the daughter of the late Talmadge DeWitt Eubanks and Della Brooks Eubanks. She was the beloved wife of Joe Hamrick and they would have celebrated their 60^th wedding anniversary on April 16. Mrs. Hamrick was co-owner and operator of Hamrick’s Jewelry Store on Main Street in Union for thirty-five years. She was a lifelong member of Buffalo Baptist Church.

Mrs. Hamrick is survived in addition to her husband by a daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Paul Pickens of Prosperity and a son, Jody Hamrick of Buffalo. She is also survived by a sister, Jewell Arrington of Charleston and a number of nieces and nephews including a very special niece, Theresia Howell, who provided such love and care in her final weeks. Mrs. Hamrick was predeceased by a brother, Wayne Ronald Eubanks.

Graveside services will be held 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at Union Memorial Gardens conducted by Rev. Jerry Lawson.

Visitation will be held immediately following the service.

The family would like to thank Dr. Gerald Fielder, Elaine Bishop, Mary Jane Chastain, Hospice Care of S.C., Home Health Services and the staff of the 3^rd Floor of Wallace Thomson Hospital for their care and compassion.

The family is at the home, 109 Sunset Drive, Union, SC 29379.
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MARGARET A. SILVERS
WHITMIRE, S.C.

Mrs. Margaret Alexander Silvers, age 76, wife of Earl E. Silvers of 191 Old US 176, Whitmire, died Thursday, April 2, 2009 at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.

Mrs. Silvers was born in Union Co. September 17, 1932 a daughter of the late Fred and Mattie Lee Whitlock Alexander. She was retired from Conso Products and had formerly worked with J. P. Stevens Co. in Whitmire. Mrs. Silvers was a member of Bethesda Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to her husband are two daughters: Betty Sue Prince of Duncan and Sherry Anne Matthews of Cornelia, GA; a step-daughter: Tina Pressley; two step-sons: Chris Crumpton and Scott Crumpton all of Whitmire; a brother: Dean Alexander of Jonesville; 6 grandchildren: Anne, Janet, Larry, Tammy, Kevin and Michelle and number of great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 4:00 PM Sunday, April 5, 2009 at Bethesda Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Steve Young. Burial will be in Lee Cemetery.

Visitation will be held 6:00 until 8:00 PM Saturday evening at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Bethesda Baptist Church Building Fund, 1309 Coleman Ave., Whitmire, SC, 29178.

The family is at the home, 191 Old US 176, Whitmire.
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JOHN TESNER
UNION, S.C.

Mr. John "Buddy" Tesner, age 58 husband of Connie "Jeannie" Pruitt Tesner formerly of Union died peacefully at the Hospice Home of the Piedmont in Greenwood, April 1, 2009 after many years of suffering.

Mr. Tesner was born in Union, February 27, 1951 a son of Kathleen Bailey Tesner of Union and the late Samuel Tesner. Mr. Tesner and his wife previously operated "Bud’s Rocks and Collectibles" in Union and he was formerly employed in the textile industry. He was a member of the White Hall Church of God and was a loving husband and father who had a heart of gold.

Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are a daughter: Brandy Tesner of the home and a son: Johnny Tesner of Vale, NC ; a brother: Lewis Tesner and half brother James Tesner both of Union; and a number of nieces and nephews. Mr. Tesner was predeceased by a brother Ray Tesner.

Funeral services will be held 12:00 PM Saturday, April 4, 2009 at the Holcombe’s Jonesville Chapel conducted by Rev. Harry T. Friar. Burial will be in Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Aaron Trent, Danny Phillips, Andy Stafford, Andrew Cline, Tyler Sullivan and Philip Cline.

The following are asked to assemble at the chapel 11:45 Saturday to form the honorary escort: Darrell Merritt, Trevor Sullivan, Nell Rogers and Jack Willis.

Mr. Tesner will be carried to the home of his sister-in-law, Rita Edenfield, 317 N. Church St., Union, where the family will receive friends after 2:00 PM Friday.

Memorials may be made to the "Buddy" Tesner Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC, 29379.
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