July 30, 2009

Corrine Laval
Jonesville, SC

Mrs. Corinne Cunningham Laval of 425 Pacolet Street, Jonesville, SC died Thursday, July 30, 2009 at her home.

Mrs. Laval was born in Union, SC, a daughter of the late Thomas David Cunningham and Lillie Belle Johnson Cunningham. She was a graduate of Jonesville High School; attended Converse College and was a graduate of Limestone College. Mrs. Laval was a former teacher at Jonesville High School for forty years. She was a member of the French Huguenot Society; a Bridge Player and an avid book reader. Mrs. Laval was a member of Fairforest Presbyterian Church and attended Jonesville United Methodist Church.

Surviving are a daughter, Billie Corinne Laval McBride of Jonesville; a son, William Lawrence Laval and wife Joyce Strode Laval of Mt. Pleasant, SC; two grandchildren: Jennifer Marshall Laval and William Lawrence "Tripp" Laval and wife Jessica Marie all of Columbia. Mrs. Laval was predeceased by a son-in-law, Francis E. "Friday" McBride; three brothers: Jim Cunningham, T.D. Cunningham and Bert Cunningham.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, August 1, 2009 at Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery conducted by Rev. Dr. James W. Ivey and Rev. Robert M. Wofford.

The following are asked to assemble at the cemetery at 10:45 AM to form the Honorary Escort: Jimmy Robinson, Ronald T. Purkey, Tommy Cunningham, Matt Cunningham, Perry Buice, Billy Hugh Mason, Henry Sanders, Dennis Stevens and Danny Holt.

Visitation will be held at the graveside immediately following the service.

Memorials may be made to Jonesville United Methodist Church, 222 Pacolet Street, Jonesville, SC 29353 or to Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 38, Jonesville, SC 29353.

The family is at the home of her daughter, Billie McBride, 265 Parks Farm Rd., Jonesville.

Dennis Wayne Lancaster
Jonesville, SC

Mr. Dennis Wayne Lancaster, age 54, husband of June Cathcart Lancaster of 1851 Mudbridge Rd., Jonesville, SC died Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at the Dorn Veterans Administration Hospital in Columbia, SC.

Mr. Lancaster was born in Union, SC, December 21, 1954, a son of Wayne Lancaster and Shirley Lee Lancaster of Jonesville. He was a graduate of Jonesville High School and retired from the U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne, Ft. Bragg having served in the Persian Gulf War. Mr. Lancaster was a member of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church; Duncan Masonic Lodge; a Shriner and a member of the Hejaz Warriors.

Surviving in addition to his wife are a daughter, Anna Maria Lancaster of the home; a son, David Brian Lancaster and wife Jennifer of Jonesville; two grandchildren: Michael and Abby Lancaster of Jonesville; three sisters: Grace Pryor of Spartanburg, Julie Adams of Jonesville and Kathy Lancaster of Spartanburg; two brothers: Leon Lancaster and Craig Lancaster both of Jonesville; a mother-in-law, Jean Cathcart of Pauline and a special "Uncle Charles" of Jonesville.

Graveside services with Military and Masonic Rites will be held 1:30 PM Friday, July 31, 2009 at Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church Cemetery conducted by Mr. Jimmy Maness and Mr. Jerry Carver. Members of the Duncan Masonic Lodge, Jonesville Prudence Lodge, Spartanburg Shrine Club and the Hejaz Warriors are asked to assemble at the cemetery at 1:15 PM Friday to form the Honorary Escort.

Visitation will be held in the church immediately following the graveside service.

Memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, % Hejaz Shrine Temple, P.O. Box 667, Mauldin, SC 29662.

The family is at the home1851 Mudbridge Rd., Jonesville.

July 29, 2009

Benji Grant
Union, SC

Mr. Joseph Benjamin "Benji" Grant, age 45 of 212 Bobo Street, Union, SC died Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Grant was born in Union, SC May 18, 1964, a son of Mary Austin Grant of the home and the late Arnold Morris Grant.

Surviving are a brother, Billy Ray Grant and wife Patricia of Woodruff; a number of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, July 31, 2009 at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The family is at the home, 212 Bobo Street, Union, where they will receive friends 6:00-8:00 PM Thursday evening.

Memorials may be made to the Benji Grant Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC 29379.

Bobby Steve Bailey, Sr.
Union, SC

Mr. Bobby Steve "Five String" Bailey, Sr, age 73 of 131 Camelot Drive, Union, SC, widower of Ruby Chaney Bailey, died Tuesday, July 28, 2009.

Mr. Bailey was born in Bristol, TN September 5, 1935, a son of the late Clarence Robert Bailey and Evelyn Green Bailey. He was a retired carpenter and a Veteran of the US Maine Corp.

Mr. Bailey was a member of Fairforest Baptist Church; a Master Banjo Player who loved Bluegrass and had played with Flatt & Scruggs, Bill Monroe and many other well know Bluegrass Artist. He was a member of the Black Mountain Boys.

Surviving are a son, Steve Bailey and wife Beth; a granddaughter, Jenna Bailey; a devoted friend, caregiver and companion, Susan Bramlett all of Union.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, July 31, 2009 at Fairforest Baptist Church Cemetery conducted by Rev. Randy Burgess.

Visitation will be held 7:00-9:00 PM Thursday evening at the SR Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family is at the home of his son, Steve and Beth Bailey, 104 Partridge Rd., Union, SC 29379.

July 28, 2009

Sarah Frances Arthur
Union, SC

Miss Sarah Frances Arthur, age 86, formerly of 296 Meansville Rd., Union, SC died Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at Oakmont of Union.

Miss Arthur was born in Union, SC March 19, 1923, a daughter of the late Morris LeFoy Arthur and Nettie Bates Arthur. She retired from Milliken & Co - Monarch Plant. Miss Arthur was a lifelong member of Bethel United Methodist Church where she was a member of the choir for fifty plus years, a member of the United Methodist Women, Senior Adult Sunday School Class, active in Senior Adult activities of the Church, Order of the Eastern Star Martha Chapter 79 and Union County Senior Citizens.

Surviving are a brother, Wilson Doil Arthur and wife Maria of Union; two sisters: Betty Arthur McNeace of Union and Joyce Arthur Parsons of Ohio and numerous nieces and nephews. Miss Arthur was predeceased by two sisters and two brothers: Virginia A. Robertson, Zanoma Arthur Coward Davis, James M. Arthur and William LeFoy "Bill" Arthur.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, July 31, 2009 at Bethel United Methodist Church conducted by Rev. Terry Mitchell. Burial will be in Union Memorials Gardens.

Miss Arthur’s nephews will serve as active pallbearers. Members of the choir of Bethel United Methodist Church and members of the Senior Adult Sunday School Class are asked to sit in a group.

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

Memorials may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 1705 Lockhart Hwy., Union, SC 29379.

The family is at the home of her sister, Betty and Albert McNeace, 1669 Monarch Hwy., Union.

July 25, 2009

Reuben Williams
Union, SC

Mr. Reuben Williams, age 90, widower of Rachel Wilson Williams died Saturday, July 25, 2009 at the home of his nephew and niece, Larry and Pamela Gault.

Mr. Williams was born in Buffalo community June 8, 1919, a son of the late Danny Pinckney and Mamie Alexander Williams. He was a Veteran of WWII having served in the US Army and a member of Fairview Baptist Church. Mr. Williams was retired from Milliken & Company- Monarch Plant.

Survivors are two brothers: Davis Williams and wife, Frances and Herbert Williams and wife Myrtle all of Union; and a number of nieces and nephews. Mr. Williams was predeceased by his first wife, Julia Vanderford Williams.

Graveside services will be held 4:00 PM Monday July 27, 2009 at Rosemont Cemetery conducted by the Rev. Jackie Carrigan.

The family will receive friends from 2:30 until 3:45 prior to the service at the S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the Palmetto Hospice of Newberry and caregivers: Darlene Jones, Patti Whitlock for all their devoted care.

The family is at the home of his nephew and niece, Larry and Pamela Gault of 422 Vernon Foster Road, Union.

July 24, 2009

Thelma Guynelle Hughes
Union, S.C.

Mrs. Thelma Guynelle Gault Hughes, age 104, widow of John Elliott Hughes, formerly of Cherokee Co and Jonesville, died Friday, July 24, 2009 at Ellen Sagar Nursing Home.

Mrs. Hughes was born in the Kelton community of Union Co., December 29, 1904 a daughter of the late Joseph Wallace Gault and Edith Fowler Gault. She was first married to the late William Asbury (Billy) Spears and was a member of Foster’s Chapel United Methodist Church. Mrs. Hughes owned and operated Kendrick’s Store in Cherokee Co. for a number of years. She is the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Surviving are 10 nieces and 2 nephew. Mrs. Hughes was predeceased by a daughter: Mary Elizabeth Spears, two sisters: Marie Howell and Ruth Fowler and three brothers: Clark Gault, Roy Gault and Edgar Gault.

Graveside services will be held 3:00 PM Sunday, July 26, 2009 at Foster’s Chapel United Methodist Church cemetery conducted by Rev. Christopher Greene.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the church sanctuary.

Memorials may be made to Foster’s Chapel United Methodist Church Improvement Fund, P.O. Box 611, Union, SC, 29379.

The family will be at their respective home.

July 22, 2009

Elizabeth Yvonne Thompson
Union, SC

Ms. Elizabeth Yvonne Thompson, age 62 of 3013 Whitmire Hwy., Union, SC died Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System.

Ms. Thompson was born in Union, SC June 6, 1947, a daughter of the late Edgar Earl Thompson and Pearl Sumner Thompson. She was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church where she served as a nursery worker. Ms. Thompson formerly worked at Milliken & Co - Ottaray Plant. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Surviving are a son, Gary Lewis Thompson of the home; a daughter, Roxie Dianna Gilliam of Pacolet; a niece, Renea Fulcher of FL; two nephews: Ricky Thompson and Phillip Thompson both of Union and a sister-in-law, Elaine Thompson of Union.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Friday, July 24, 2009 at the SR Holcombe Funeral Chapel conducted by Rev. Robert Chapman. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens.

Active pallbearers will be Ricky Thompson, Phillip Thompson, John Lowe, Gilbert Smith, Jr, Monroe Smith and Kent Smith.

Visitation will be held 7:00-9:00 PM Thursday evening at the SR Holcombe Funeral Home.

The family is at the home, 3013 Whitmire Hwy., Union, SC 29379.

July 20, 2009

Iley Watson Fant
Union, SC

Iley Watson Fant died at the age of 79 on Friday July 17th at Spartanburg Regional Hospital. He was born in Union SC on May 04, 1930 to the late Samuel Preston Fant, and late Minnie Bryant Mae Fant. Mr. Fant is survived by his wife Faye Louise Fant, daughters Valerie and, Rhonda Fant, and Melinda Poole, sons Jerry Kaufholz, Dewayne Kaufholz, Lane Kaufholz, and fifteen grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and many nieces, and nephews. Two brothers, Sam Fant, and Joe Fant also survive Mr. Fant.

Mr. Fant was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He served our great country by providing 24 years of service in the United States Navy. He joined the Navy at age 17, and retired as Lieutenant Commander in 1971. While in the Navy he spent his time on many different ships including the Coral See, Saratoga, Forrestal, Neptune, Independence, America, and the USS Arco. During his career in the Navy he received the National Defense Service Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal. He received the Navy achievement medal “for outstanding achievement in the superior performance of his duties from May 15, 1966 to May 3, 1968 while serving as Commanding Officer of the USS Arco (ARD 29) rendering dry-docking service to ships under repair and overhaul at the U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility, in Guam. Among his accomplishments Lieutenant Commander Fant was credited for having the ship named the USS Arco. While on the Arco Lieutenant Commander Fant demonstrated outstanding professional competence and leadership in the rapid docking and undocking of a large number of ships of many varieties at the Ship Repair Facility. Possessing a keen understanding of the operational as well as the maintenance aspects of his overall responsibilities, Lieutenant Commander Fant devised drydock block arrangements and inspired his officers and crew members to dock ships within a few hours of the undocking of previous ships. In addition, he led his officers and crew members to provide very rapid response to the requirements of emergency undocking and docking during and after typhoon warnings. Lieutenant Commander Fant’s outstanding leadership, professional skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

After retirement from the Navy Mr. Fant returned to South Carolina and worked for several years as a Union County Tax Assessor.

Visitation and viewing was held at the family home, 206 Bermuda Drive, Union, SC, Sunday July, 19th from 2pm to 7pm. The Funeral Service was held at Padgett’s Creek Baptist Church, Monday, July 20, 2009 at 2:00 pm followed by a full military burial at Newberry Memorial Gardens.

He will be deeply missed by his friends and family, and will always be in their hearts.

July 19, 2009

Martha Rhinehart Meyers
Enoree, SC

Mrs. Martha Rhinehart Meyers, age 64, of 640 Ralph Dawkins Rd., Enoree, SC, widow of James Meyers, died Saturday, July 18, 2009 at her home.

Mrs. Meyers was born in Union, SC December 22, 1944, a daughter of the late James Rhinehart and Mary Trammel Rhinehart. She was a caregiver.

Surviving are two daughters, Tammy Odom and husband James of Enoree and April Meyers of the home; a son, James Brock and wife Donna of Enoree; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; two sisters: Virginia Mae Rhinehart of Spartanburg and Dianne Adams of Enoree and two brothers: Floyd Rhinehart and Paul Rhinehart both of Union. Mrs. Meyers was predeceased by a daughter, Judy Brock.

Graveside services will be held 12:00 Noon Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at Rosemont Cemetery conducted by Rev. Carrol Caldwell.

Active pallbearers will be Earl Sinclair, James Brock, Jr., Michael Smith, Frankie Adams, William Campbell and Kevin Rhinehart.

Mrs. Meyers will be taken to the home of her son, James and Donna Brock, 340 Rocky Ridge Rd., Enoree Sunday evening where the family will receive friends.

Memorials may be made to Martha Meyers Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC 29379.

July 18, 2009

Sharisse Latham Comer
Buffalo, SC

Mrs. Sharisse Latham Comer, age 38 of 202 Pine Street, Buffalo, SC died suddenly Friday, July 17, 2009 at her home.

Mrs. Comer was born in Union, SC September 30, 1970, a daughter of Joan Fisher Latham of the home and the late Melvin Latham. She was a graduate of Union High School and was of the Baptist Faith.

Surviving in addition to her mother are two daughters: Brittany Comer and Kristtany Comer both of the home; a brother, Dale Latham of Union and a sister, Denise Alexander of Buffalo. Mrs. Comer was predeceased by a brother, David Latham.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Sunday, July 19, 2009 at the SR Holcombe Funeral Chapel conducted by Rev. Johnny Burgess. Burial will be in Rosemont Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Jonathan Davis, Rusty Fuller, Tom Comer, Matt Etling, Matthew Gault and Jacob Warren.

Memorials may be made to New Hope Baptist Church Relay for Life Team, 308 Linersville Rd., Buffalo, SC 29321.

Visitation will be held 1:00-3:00 PM Sunday prior to the service in the chapel.

The family is at the home, 202 Pine Street, Buffalo, SC 29321.

July 16, 2009

Charles L. McCullough
Columbia, S.C.

Mr. Charles L. "Mac" McCullough, age 84, widower of Carolyn Scales McCullough died Thursday, July 16, 2009 at Providence Hospital.

Mr. McCullough was born in Columbia, November 30, 1924, a son of the late Marwin L. and Carrie Watson McCullough. He was a graduate of Columbia High School where he lettered in football and basketball. Mr. McCullough was retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 28 years and was a member of Washington Street Methodist Church. A veteran of WWII having served in the U.S. Army 101st Airborne Division as a paratrooper, Mr. McCullough was wounded at the Battle of the Buldge and was the recipient of two Purple Hearts. His division participated in the D-Day invasion on Normandy and was the first division to receive the Presidential Unit Citation. Mr. McCullough was an avid Carolina Gamecock fan and was a member of the Gamecock Club for 52 years. He was also a member of the D.A.V. and was an active member of the Columbia YMCA.

Surviving are a sister: Carolyn M. Strader of Franklin, NC; a niece: Carol S. Whitener and husband Allen of Union; a nephew: Billy Scales and wife Michelle of Greenville; dear family in-laws: William T. and Betty Scales of Union; two great-nieces: Kristin Whitener and Savannah Scales; a special and caring friend Lisa Beaty of Columbia and several other nieces and nephews. Mr. McCullough was predeceased by a brother: Rev. Earl McCullough.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Washington Street Methodist Church conducted by Rev. Paul Harmon. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park with Military Honors.

Active pallbeares will be Tom Gorman, Al McMekin, Robin Eubanks, Myra Grayson Nuttall, Lisa Beaty, Talley Kelly, Laura B. Rogers, and Jean Powers.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 until 1:00 Pm Saturday at the church prior to the service.

The family will be at their respective homes.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 154 MilestoneWay, Greenville, SC, 29615 or to the Washington Street Methodist Church, 1401 Washington St., Columbia, SC, 29201.

July 15, 2009

Chavis Eugene Lee
Whitmire, SC

Mr. Chavis Eugene Lee, age 34 of 1307 Broom Street, Whitmire, SC died Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Lee was born in Union, SC June 12, 1975, a son of Susan Elaine Corder Bryant of the home. He was of the Baptist Faith.

Surviving are five brothers: Brian Steele, Bit Steele, Michael Corder all of Whitmire, Rusty Steele, Brice Steele both of Clinton; four sisters: Pat Milton of Saluda, Rita Wells of Joanna, Edith Steele of Gilbert and Rhonda Jackson of Easley; a sister-in-law, Susan Overton of Whitmire; a nephew "Uncle Bubba’s Monkey", Brian Steele, Jr; a niece, "Chow’s Little Angel" Dakota Bodie both of Whitmire; aunt and uncles: Annette and Clay Bodie and David Corder all of Whitmire.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Grace Baptist Church, Little Egypt Rd., Whitmire. Burial will be in the Whitmire Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Daniel Bodie, Mark Felker, Stevie Reid, Blake Johnson, Brian Steele and Kent Prather. The following are asked to assemble at the church at 10:45 AM to form the Honorary Escort: Jeremy Prather, Josh Armstrong, Mike Bostic, David Overton, Joey Wilson and JJ Bullard.

Visitation will be held 6:00-9:00 PM Friday evening at the church.

Memorials may be made to Chavis E. Lee Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC 29379.

The family is at the home, 1307 Broom St., Whitmire.

James Neely Ashe, Sr.
Lockhart, S.C.
Former Represenative- S.C. House

Mr. James Neely Ashe, Sr., age 87, husband of Ailene Davis Ashe of 302 Mill St., Lockhart, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at the Regional Hospice Home in Spartanburg.

Mr. Ashe was born in Chester Co., March 10, 1922, a son of the late Clyde Freeman Ashe and Carrie Purcell Ashe. He was a graduate of Lockhart High School and a veteran of the U.S. Navy having served during WWII. Mr. Ashe served in the S.C. House of Representative from 1977 until 1982. He was the president of the James Neely Ashe Insurance Agency and retired from Brown’s Creek Water Co. after 30 years. A member of Lockhart First Baptist Church, he was a former Deacon and Sunday School Teacher and served as trustee of the Baptist Foundation of SC for three terms. He was a member of the Lockhart Masonic Lodge # 244 for 59 years, the Lockhart American Legion and served as past chairman for the Union Co. Transportation Dept.

Mr. Ashe was first married to the late Willie Lou Bentley Ashe for 40 years.

Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons: James Neely Ashe, Jr. and wife Phyllis of Houston, TX, Philip Ashe of Columbia and Jeffrey Ashe of Rock Hill; two daughters: Cynthia Brock Adams of Union and Cheryl Brock Rop and husband Dr. Timothy J. Rop of Spartanburg; two sisters: Eleanor Ashe Boling and Betty Ashe Steen both of Lockhart; 8 grandchildren: Jeremy Ashe, Jason Ashe, Daniel Ashe, Mary Lauren Kennedy, Sara Ashe Bruschi, Katherine Ashe, Derek Adams and Roan Stepp; two great-grandsons: Gavin and Noah Ashe; and one great-granddaughter: Elle Kennedy; special caregivers and friends: Donald Revis, Betty Baxley and Margaret Braddock. Mr. Ashe was predeceased by a brother, C.F. Ashe.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, July 17, 2009, at Lockhart First Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Ben Hill and Rev. Calvin Smith. Entombment will be held at Union Memorial Gardens Mausoleum with Military Honors.

Active pallbearers will be Paul Burgess, Marvin Ashe, Joey Conard, Tommy Eaves, Blake McCollum, Spencer Scarborough, Barry Canupp and Glen Stein.

The following are asked to assemble at the church at 10:45 AM Friday to form the honorary escort: Hugh Gregory, D.A. McCloud, Keith Vanderford, Toney Farr, Mike Anthony, Dr. Philip Esce, Tim O’Dell, and Nurses and staff of Hospice Care of SC, Union Unit.

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

Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of SC, Union Unit, 408 N. Duncan ByPass, Suite 6, Union, SC, 29379 or to Regional Hospice Home, 686 Jeff Davis Dr., Spartanburg, SC, 29303.

The family is at the home, 302 Mill St., Lockhart, SC.

July 13, 2009

Ronnie V. Williams
Union, S.C.

Mr. Ronald V. "Ronnie" Williams age 64, of 218 Wilbur St., Union, died Sunday July 12, 2009 in Greenwood.

Mr. Williams was born in Buffalo, May 8, 1945, a son of Davis Herbert Williams and the late Ada Nance Williams. He was a retired construction worker and attended Victory Baptist Church. Mr. Williams was first married to the late Juanita Alexander Williams.

Surviving are three daughters: Tammy W. Parker and husband Ronald, and Pamela Williams all of Union, Dawn W. Pridemore and husband Todd of Jonesville; one son: Eddie Williams of Jonesville; a sister: Jeanette W. Pharr of Union; his step-mother: Frances Williams of Buffalo; 10 grandchildren and special friends Ron and Sherry Tucker. Mr. Williams was predeceased by a brother: John Herbert Williams.

Graveside services will be held 4:00 PM Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Fairview Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Jackie Carrigan.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the graveside.

Memorials may be made to the Ronnie V. William Fund, P.O. Box 293, Union, SC, 29379 or to the American Cancer Society, 154 Milestone Way, Greenville, SC, 29615.

The family will be at their respective home.

Jeff Wright
Union, SC

Mr. Jeffrey O. "Jeff" Wright, age 37, husband of Deborah Jean Wood Wright of 749 Mt. Tabor Church Rd., Union, SC died Sunday, July 12, 2009 at his home.

Mr. Wright was born in Gaffney, SC May 17, 1972, a son of Benny R. Wright of Gaffney and the late Wilma Haney Wright. He was formerly employed with Charter Communications and attended Lakeside Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to his wife are a daughter, Jessica Wright; a son, Jeffrey O. Wright, Jr both of the home; a sister, Rhonda Reynolds of Gaffney; two nieces: Candice Wright and Haley Colbert and a nephew, Greg Anthony. Mr. Wright was predeceased by a sister, Angela Wright and a brother, Benny R. Wright, Jr.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at the SR Holcombe Funeral Chapel conducted by Rev. Scott Cobb. Burial will be in Sardis United Methodist Church Cemetery in Cherokee County.

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

The family is at the home, 749 Mt. Tabor Church Rd., Union, SC 29379.

July 12, 2009

J. B. Stepp
Union, SC

Mr. J. B. Stepp, age 84, of 706 Perrin Ave. Union, SC, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2009 in Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home.

Mr. Stepp was born in Gaffney, SC, December 24, 1924, a son of the late Robert Stepp and Louise Gaden Stepp and was married to the late Elizabeth Quenn Stepp.
Mr. Stepp was retired from Carlisle Finishing Co. and was a U S Navy Veteran. Mr. Stepp enjoyed politics and joined in the campaigns of many candidates. Mr. Stepp was of the Baptist Faith.

Surviving are a daughter, Treena S. Bishop of Spartanburg; two sons, Joe Stepp of Union and Eddie Dean Stepp of Spartanburg; four sisters; eight grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 4:00 P M, Monday, July 13, 2009 at Rosemont Cemetery, conducted by Rev. Travis Blackwell.

The family will receive friends following the service at the cemetery.

The family will be at their respective homes.

Ralph Jenkins
Union, SC

Mr. Ralph Thomas Jenkins, age 72, husband of Frances Rivers Jenkins of 1741 Tinker Creek Rd., Union, SC died Friday, July 10, 2009 at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System.

A life long resident and beloved member of the Santuc Community, Mr. Jenkins was born December 24, 1936, a son of the late Richard Harris Jenkins and Mae Thomas Jenkins.

Mr. Jenkins was a graduate of Union High School and was a US Army Veteran having

served in Korea following the Korean Conflict. Mr. Jenkins was retired from SCANA Corp. and was a member of Cane Creek Presbyterian Church where he was an Elder of the Church and a member of the Church Choir. Mr. Jenkins served as a volunteer for the Santuc Fire Dept.and served as a District Commissioner from it’s conception. Mr. Jenkins was a member of Santuc Masonic Lodge.

Surviving in addidtion to his wife, Frances Rivers Jenkins, are 2 daughters, Kelly Susanne Jenkins of the home and Jennifer Jenkins Jansen and husband Jon of Union; 2 sons, Richard Eugene Jenkins and wife Linda G. of McConnells, SC and Ralph Rivers Jenkins of Atlanta, GA; 3 grandchildren; Richard Thomas Coleman Jenkins, William Eugene Jenkins and Collin Rivers Jenkins of McConnells, SC; a beloved friend, Lazaro Lopez of Atlanta, GA; 2 sisters Elizabeth Vaughan and husband Tony of Rock Hill, SC and Rita Vanderford and husband Stanley of Union; 2 brothers, Ellis Wayne Jenkins and wife Nanette of Carlisle, SC and Randy Hugh Jenkins and wife Mary of Union and a number of nieces and nephews. Mr. Jenkins was predeceased by a brother, Richard Eugene Jenkins.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM, Sunday, July 12, 2009 at Cane Creek Presbyterian Church conducted by Rev. Robert Gant. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Preston Thomas, Wallace Sanders, Parlee Epps, Francis Crocker, Evans Crocker, Mark Ayers and Leonard Green. Honorary pallbearers will be Elders of Cane Creek Presbyterian Church, fellow co-workers of SCANA Corp. and Robert Jeter.

The family will receive friends following the service at Cane Creek Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall.

In luie of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 154 Millstone Way Greenville, SC 29615 or Cane Creek Presbyterian Church, 120 Cane Creek Church Rd. Union, SC 29379.

The family is at the home, 1741 Tinker Creek Rd., Union.

Catherine Proctor
Union, SC

Mrs. CatherineVanderford Proctor, age 91, of 313 River Rd. Union, wife of Clifford

F. Proctor, died Saturday July 11, 2009 in Regional Hospice Home in Spartanburg, SC

Mrs Proctor was born in Union, February 12, 1918 a daughter of the late Barth B. Vanderford, Sr. and Effie Vaughan Vanderford. Mrs Proctor was a graduate of Lockhart High School and was retired from Conso Products. Mrs. Proctor was a member of Philippi Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to her husband, Clifford F. Proctor, are a daughter, Karen P. Stevens and husband Brad of West Springs; a sister Hazel Greene of Union; a sister -in -law, Lib Revels of Union; 2 grandaughters, Leslie Register and husband Jeremy of Moore, SC and Carley Painter and husband, Trent of Pauline, SC; a great granddaughter, Ava Reese Painter of Pauline and a great grandson Riley Register of Moore. Mrs Proctor was pre deceased by 3 sisters; Frances Vaughan, Margaret Vanderford and Mary Lee Boyle, and a brother; B.B. Vanderford.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Monday, July 13, 2009 at Philippi Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Brad Goodale.

Active Pallbearers will be Leslie Anderson, Jimmy Vaughan, Eddie Gibson, James Gregory, Alvin Woods, Joel Miller, Bobby Vaughan and Mike Vanderford. Honorary pallbearers will be B.C. Ivey, Joel Vaughan, Randall Pruitt, Larry Candler, Jean Crocker, Flora Vaughan, Doris Eaves and the Ladies of the Reba Montgomery Sunday School Class.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 2:45 PM prior to the service in the church sanctuary.

Memorials may be made to Philippi Baptist Church, Building Fund, 327 Philippi Church Rd. Union, SC 29379 or to Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home, 686 Jeff Davis Dr., Spartanburg, SC 29303.

The family is at the home 313 River Rd. Union, SC 29379.

July 7, 2009

Ruth "Bootsie" Haile
Jonesville, SC

Mrs. Ruth P. "Bootsie" Haile, age 87, formerly of 308 Haile Street, Jonesville, SC died Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at Ellen Sagar Nursing Home.

Mrs. Haile was born in Pacolet Mills, SC September 4, 1921, a daughter of the late Corbett Padgett and Belle Kirby Padgett. She was married for sixty years to the late William Charles Haile. Mrs. Haile was formerly employed as a dietician with the Jonesville Elementary School. She was a member of Jonesville Baptist Church where she was a member of the Willing Workers Sunday School Class and the Willie Scott Circle. Mrs. Haile’s greatest enjoyment came from being a homemaker, a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Surviving are four daughters: Joyce Ergle and husband Ramon of Aiken, Carol Fowler and husband Paul, Melissa Gossett and husband Marion and Donna Addis and husband Darrell all of Jonesville; a sister, Catherine Brown of Pacolet; two brothers: Roy Padgett and Dean Padgett both of Pacolet Mills; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held 2:00 PM Thursday, July 9, 2009 at the Haile Family Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers will be Greg Fowler, Jason Fowler, Daniel Addis, Channing Ergle, Don Padgett, Mike Padgett and Daryl Padgett.

Visitation will be held 7:00-9:00 PM Wednesday evening at Jonesville Baptist Church.

Memorials may be made to Jonesville Baptist Church Benevolence Fund, P.O. Box 279, Jonesville, SC 29353.

The family is at the home of her daughter, Melissa and Marion Gossett, 377 New Hope Church Rd., Jonesville, SC 29353.

Milford E. Queen
Jonesville, SC

Mr. Milford Earl Queen, age 87 of 129 Hames Avenue, Jonesville, SC, widower of Martha Foster Queen died suddenly Monday, July 6, 2009 at his home.

Mr. Queen was born in Jonesville, SC May 28, 1922, a son of the late Robert Milford Queen and Lola McKinney Queen Rochester. He retired from JP Stevens - Jonesville Plant after forty plus years of service. Mr. Queen also retired from the US Postal Service as a rural carrier. He was a member of Jonesville Baptist Church where he was a member of the Ivey White Sunday School Class; was a life member of VFW Post 9539 in Spartanburg; a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 22 in Jonesville; a member of the Rural Letter Carriers Association and a member of the Escort Carrier Sailors and Airmen Association. Mr. Queen was a Veteran of the US Navy having served in World War II aboard the US Sagamon. He was a devoted and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be greatly missed.

Surviving are a daughter, Tami Queen Fowler of Woodruff; two sons: Earl Queen and wife Ann of Jonesville and Doug Queen of Buffalo; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren with one more expected; a sister, Velma Rochester Gregory of Jonesville; aunt and uncle, Lewis and Agnes Purkey of Jonesville; sister-in-law and brothers-in-law: Maurice and Jo Ann Cordell of Union, William C. "Bud" Foster of Spartanburg and Keith Robinson of Jonesville; several nieces, nephews and special friends, John Earl and Frankie Hogan of Pacolet. Mr. Queen was predeceased by three sisters: Louise West, Yvonne Harvey and Edna Queen; a brother, Junior Queen; a granddaughter, Kaitlyn Queen and step-father, Frank Rochester.

Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Jonesville Memorial Gardens conducted by Rev. Ralph Brown.

Members of Mr. Queen’s Sunday School Class of Jonesville Baptist Church are asked to sit in a group.

Visitation will be held 6:00-8:00 PM Wednesday evening at the Holcombe’s Jonesville Chapel.

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

The family is at the home, 129 Hames Avenue, Jonesville, SC 29353.

July 6, 2009

Irene G. Foster
Union, SC

Miss Irene G. Foster, age 88 of Pinckney Place Apts., Union, SC died Monday, July 6, 2009 at Wallace Thomson Hospital.

Miss Foster was born in Union, SC April 12, 1921, a daughter of the late Luther Edward Foster and Beulah Belle Proctor Foster. She retired from Milliken & Co - Monarch Plant and was a member of Salem Baptist Church. Miss Foster was a life long resident of Union County.

Surviving are a sister, Evelyn F. Mabry and husband Erby of Union; special nieces: Teresa O’Shields and husband Ricky and Patricia Smith and husband William; special nephews: Jerry Foster all of Union, Terry Foster of Gaffney and Mike McGowan, II of Pauline and several other nieces and nephews and a sister-in-law, Katie Foster of Union. Miss Foster was predeceased by a brother, Lee E. Foster and a nephew, Brandon Rook.

Graveside services will be held 2:00 PM Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at Union Memorial Gardens conducted by Rev. Ricky Cook.

Visitation will be held at the graveside immediately following the service.

Memorials may be made to The Brandon Rook Foundation, P.O. Box 492, Clinton, SC 29325.

The family is at their respective homes.

July 2, 2009

Johnnye S. Vaughn
Union, S.C.

Mrs. Johnnye Smith Vaughn, age 82, wife of James W. "Bonzie" Vaughn of Richards St., Union, died Wednesday, July 1, 2009 after a long illness.

Mrs. Vaughan was born August 3, 1926, a daughter of the late Rev. John A. Smith and Mattie Trapp Smith, formerly of Santuck . She worked for Southern Bell for many years, where she was a member of the Telephone Pioneer Club. Mrs. Vaughn also was a volunteer worker with the American Red Cross, Union Services and Wallace Thomson Hospital. She was a member of Mon Aetna Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to her husband are a daughter: Jane Vaughn of Greenville, two sisters: Mary Frances Ivey of Cayce, Chris Allen and husband Ed of Elloree; a brother: Talmadge "T.W." Smith and wife Betty of West Columbia; a sister-in-law: Nell Vaughan of Union; a brother-in-law: Rev. Joe Vaughan and wife Juanita of Richmond, VA and numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Mrs. Vaughn was predeceased by a daughter, Liz Anne and four sisters: Oleta Jenkins, Ruth Yaskin, Smitty Flynn and Virginia Mixon.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, July 3, 2009 at Mon Aetna Baptist Church conducted by Rev. James Crocker, Rev. Jerry Ford, and Rev. Joe Vaughan. Burial will be in Union Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Vaughn’s nephews will serve as active pallbearers.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until 2:00 PM prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Whitten Center Parents Club, P.O. Box 239, Clinton, S.C. 29325 or to Mon Aetna Building Fund, 1431 Lockhart Hwy., Union, SC, 29379 or to a charity of one’s choice.

The family is at the home, Richards St., Union.