Dorothy Mae Marshall “Dot” Tisdale, 93, wife of the late Robert Gary “Bobby” Tisdale, died Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital in Murrells Inlet, SC.
“Miss Dot” was born July 20, 1931, in Andrews, the daughter of the late Dudley Marshall and Pauline Boyd Marshall. She was a graduate of Andrews High School and was cafeteria manager at D.P. Cooper Elementary School for many years. Miss Dot was a devoted member of Central Presbyterian Church and a member of the church’s Friendship Circle. She enjoyed working in her yard and loved seeing the results of her hard work. Her greatest joys came from her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She valued all the family times together from simple morning breakfasts to large family reunions.
Surviving Miss Dot are: her children, Bonnie (Chuck) Schmidt, Michael (Janet) Tisdale, Linda (Duffy) McDonald, Wayne (Penny) Tisdale, and Paulette Rawl; grandchildren, Robert (Deborah) Williams, Jennifer (Jack) Williams, Michele (David) Johnson, Heather Tisdale, Elliot (Cristina) McDonald, Ben (Amanda) McDonald, Kyle (Ellie) Tisdale, Ethan (Macy) Tisdale, Drew (Taylor) Rawl, and Colleen (William) Cooper; great grandchildren, Courtney (Chris) Lewis, Marshall Johnson, Emmett Johnson, Breccan McDonald, Lennox McDonald, Liam Cooper, Lia Tisdale, and Capers Rawl; and great-great grandchild, Lane Lewis.
Funeral services will be 2 PM, Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Central Presbyterian Church, with burial in Tisdale Cemetery. Miss Dot’s family will greet friends and family from 6 to 8 PM, Tuesday at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree. Memorials may be made to Central Presbyterian Church, PO Box 421, Kingstree, SC 29556 Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Susan Diane Long Snipes, 75, died at Carlyle Senior Care in Kingstree on Monday, January 6, 2025.
Ms. Snipes was born April 21, 1949, in Zanesville, Ohio, a daughter of the late Jack Long and Jean Stewart Long. She loved her fur babies and enjoyed spending time with her beloved grandchildren.
Susan is survived by: her children, Angela (Rodney, Sr) Rhodes of Michigan, Jamie (Tony) McGee of Cades, Matthew Snipes of Cades, and Lisa (Kelly) McCracken of Kingstree; 11 grandchildren, Courtney (Brandon) Bray, Rodney Rhodes, Jr., Chelsea Marlowe, Caitlyn McGee, Colby McGee, Paris Snipes, Jemma Snipes, Kash Snipes, Ryann (James) Morris, Reed McCracken, and Rowan McCracken; 5 great grandchildren; and 3 siblings, Sherry (Elbert) Mills of Illinois, Lynn Carswell of Michigan, and Kim Long of Michigan. In addition to her parents, Susan was preceded in death by a sister, Jackie Topoloski and a brother, Steve Long.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Ronald Linton “Ronnie” Smith, 83, husband of Ann Flagler Smith, died at his home in Kingstree on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Mr. Smith was born March 13, 1941, in Charleston, SC, a son of the late Fritz Carner Smith, Sr. and Blanche Miller Smith. He was a graduate of Kingstree High School and was a farmer. Ronnie worked in produce and produce markets in Kingstree, Florence, Moncks Corner, and Myrtle Beach for many years, and operated his own produce market in Florence for 20 years. He loved growing plants and loved to share the produce and flowers he grew.
Surviving Ronnie, in addition to his wife Ann, are: his daughter, Rhonda Smith of Kingstree; a brother, Fritz C. Smith, Jr (Margaret) of Kingstree; a granddaughter, McKenzie Ann Loos (Tanner) of Lenoir, NC; a great-granddaughter, Adelade Ann Loos and several nephews.
Mr. Smith was preceded in death by 3 children, Sheila Forrester, Ronald L. Smith, Jr., and Cheryl Ann Smith, and a sister, Connie S. Benton.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Chuck Flagler, Johnathan and Angel Flagler, and Cleve and Chatta Flagler for their support during this difficult time.
Funeral services will be announced later. Memorials may be made to Agape Hospice of SC, 187 North Church Street, Suite 201 Spartanburg, SC 29306, or online at carnationfoundation.org. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Cecil Horace “Bubba” Hanniford, 61, died Saturday, December 28, 2024, at his sister’s home in Kingstree, SC, after a long illness.
Bubba was born January 14, 1963, in Florence, SC, a son of the late Cecil Hazel Hanniford and Katherine Edwards Hanniford. He was a graduate of Kingstree Senior High School and worked with Startex Mills in Spartanburg as a mechanic. Cecil was a member of Second Baptist Church in Kingstree. He enjoyed taking care of his pets, working in his garden, and fishing with his nephews and friends. He also enjoyed cooking, trying new recipes and canning vegetables from his garden.
He is survived by: his sisters, Grace Osborne of Darlington, Terry Galensky of Darlington, Rayshell Hanniford of Scranton, Mitsy (Jimmy) Foxworth of Kingstree, and Betty Grubb of Rock Hill; and nieces and nephews, Ray, Rachel, Mitchell, Haley, Nicki, John, Wayne, Tammy, Tracy, Travis, Jay and Ryan. In addition to his parents, Bubba was preceded in death by his grandmother Daisy Sauls Baylor and a sister, Marie Grady.
A private family gathering and celebration of Bubba’s life will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, January 11, 2025.
Memorials may be made to Second Baptist Church, 20 Dennis Avenue, Kingstree, SC 29556 or American Cancer Society online at www.donate.cancer.org. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Ector Daniel “Dan” Shepard, Jr., 65, husband of Penny Burnett Shepard, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital in Murrells Inlet. Dan’s legacy is one of honor, service, dedication, and devoted love for his family and friends.
Dan was born March 3, 1959, in Kingstree, the son of the late Ector Daniel Shepard and Bevis Boyd Shepard. He was a graduate of Winyah High School and a graduate of The Citadel Class of 1981, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He was a member of the prestigious Summerall Guards. He also received a master’s degree in operations management from the University of Arkansas.
Dan served his country with honor during his 9 years of active-duty service in the US Air Force, earning the rank of Captain and Instructor Navigator for the KC-135 aircraft, specializing in global air refueling operations. He served at Blytheville Air Force Base in Arkansas and Castle Air Force Base in Atwater, California. Following his Air Force service, Dan’s professional life was marked by his successful accomplishments in the management of automotive and metals manufacturing industries, working with Schlumberger, Holset, Bosch, Mahle, and Arcosa before retiring.
In addition to his wife Penny, Dan is survived by his daughter, Matelon S. (Dave) DeFreese and his beloved granddaughter, Hayley DeFreese, of Summerville, and a sister, Carol (C.J.) Morgan of Scurry, Texas.
Graveside funeral service with military honors, conducted by Rev. Marty Hodge, will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Union Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 4501 US Hwy 377, Salters, SC 29590. Dan’s family will greet friends and family following the service in the Martin Building at the church. Memorials may be made to Union Presbyterian Church, c/o Diane Boyd, 114 E. Brooks Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Linda Stanley McGill, 74, wife of Frank “Hilton” McGill, Jr., passed away peacefully at her home in Kingstree on Saturday, December 14, 2024.
Linda was born January 11, 1950, in Conway, SC, the daughter of the late Elizabeth Luna “Lib” Edwards Stanley and Richard Luther “R.L.” Stanley. She was a 1968 graduate of Kingstree High School and attended Anderson College. Linda and Hilton owned and operated Kingstree Red & White for many years after Mr. and Mrs. Stanley retired. She was a faithful and active member of Kingstree First Baptist Church until recent years when her health declined. There she taught Sunday School, helped with GAs and always volunteered, especially for anything involving the youth of the church. Linda loved to join her friends at any social event, and she enjoyed Dance Club, Bridge Club, and football games, especially Clemson Tigers. But Linda’s focus was on her children and her grandchildren. She attended every school or church function, cheering for them and always supporting them. Lovingly known as “Yaya” by her grandchildren and others, she was a mother and friend to all the neighborhood children as well. They loved her fiercely.
In addition to her husband of 55 years, Hilton, Linda is survived by: her children, “Frank” Hilton McGill, III of Greenville, SC, Margaret “Meg” McGill (Greg) Beatson of Kingstree, and Stanley “Stan” Richard (Logan) McGill of Florence; six grandchildren, Emma Ryan Gordon, (Grant), Hilton Elizabeth McGill, Nancy Grace McGill, Julia May McGill, Carter Stanley McGill, and Richard Davis McGill; and one great grandchild, Easton James Hughes.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM, Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home with burial in Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Linda’s family will greet friends and family from 6 to 8 PM Monday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Kingstree First Baptist Church, 400 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556, Alzheimer’s Association online at www.alz.org, or Boykin Spaniel Rescue, 112 Hunter Ridge Dr., Spartanburg, SC 29316. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Terry Barwick Shirer, 70, wife of Julian Carlisle “Carl” Shirer, Jr., died Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at MUSC Health Florence Medical Center.
Terry was the daughter of the late E. Neiland Barwick and Ira Lee McClary Barwick. She was a graduate of Williamsburg Academy and Palmer College and received a degree in Marketing from Coastal Carolina. Terry worked at several places over her career, but her favorite was secretary at Kingstree United Methodist Church. She spent over 20 years serving the ministers and congregation of KUMC. She worked with her husband and father-in-law at J. Carlisle Shirer Trucking, Inc. for several years. Terry loved everything about the beaches of SC. She lived at Garden City while attending college and always enjoyed any trip to the shore. She just loved to be outdoors whether it was working in the garden or sunbathing at the beach or at the pool at their home.
In addition to her husband Carl, Terry is survived by: her son, Christopher Shirer of Kingstree; brother, Neil (Helen) Barwick of Florence; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Jean and Carlisle Shirer of Salters; sisters-in-law, Renee (Pat) McCormick of Kiawah and Janeen (Bobby) Rogers of Columbia; brother-in-law, James F. Shirer of Columbia; grandchildren, Damon, Maci, Noah, and Connor; and best friends from childhood, Sandi Hagwood Altman and Shelly Marcus Brenner.
Graveside funeral services will be held at 3 PM, Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Shari White Matthews, 62, wife of Donald Howard “PeeWee” Matthews, died December 6, 2024, at her home in Kingstree, SC.
Shari was born December 21, 1961, in Darlington County, SC, a daughter of the late C. B. White and Barbara Phillips White. She was a graduate of Hartsville High School and was a homemaker. Shari was a member of Broad Swamp Pentecostal Holiness Church where she spent time serving others. She was always there to volunteer her time to help with fundraisers, special events, and never hesitated to help with anything she was asked to do. She was the hands and feet of Christ, letting her light shine through her willingness to help others. Shari’s favorite place to be was outside. She loved flowers and everything to do with them. She would share what flowers she had with others and helped many friends with their yards and flower beds. If she wasn’t outside with her friends, she could most likely be found helping someone else with their housework or watching their children. When Shari wasn’t helping others, she enjoyed reading, needlepoint, crocheting and crossword puzzles.
Surviving Shari, in addition to her husband of 44 years, PeeWee, are: her brother and his wife, Bobby and Cheryl White of Selma, NC; brother-in-law, Joey (Fran) Matthews of Timmonsville; sister-in-law, Cathy (Randell) Thompson of Coward; niece, Sarah Matthews of Lake View; nephews, Mason Matthews of Lamar and Carter Matthews of Timmonsville; and special friends, Cheryl and Gary McClam.
Funeral services will be held at 4 PM, Thursday, December 12, 2024, at Broad Swamp Pentecostal Holiness Church. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Roger Robert Reiger, 72, died suddenly at his home in Kingstree, SC on Monday, December 2, 2024.
Roger was born July 14, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio, a son of the late Robert James Reiger and Leona Margaret Wires Reiger. He graduated from Brooklyn High School in Cleveland and was a veteran of the US Army. Roger was a retired general construction superintendent who enjoyed fixing automobiles and listening to music.
Roger was a family man who loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grands, and enjoyed spending time with all. Best described by his children: “Our Dad is and always will be our best friend, our hero, and the strongest man we know. He is and always was an extraordinary man who acted like just an ordinary man. He was and always will be an amazing friend, brother, uncle, husband, dad, grandfather, great grandfather to us all. He loved so fully and is loved by so many. There are no words to express his influence on our lives or his influence on those around him. He was always willing to help, to give advice, and to volunteer to help- the first to show up and the last to leave. When we think of Dad,, all we have are warm and welcoming memories. There has never been a time when we couldn’t go to him for help and not come away with a new perspective and life advice that made us all better people, but that’s who our dad was. Our dad loved so many things in life: cooking, football, politics, his music, his Big Red Truck, Trump, and his family. He will be deeply missed by everyone that knows him, in our hearts and thoughts, in our conversations as life goes on you will always be talked about in our life, but never, ever forgotten in any way. Daddy, we love you so much, you gave the best to us throughout our lives, worked so hard raising us and always loved us as we do you. Rest in peace, Dad, high in the sky riding those clouds, and at peace and happy. Love you always and forever.”
Mr. Reiger is survived by his wife, Inez Reiger; children, Robert Reiger, Dennis Strichko, Timothy Reiger (Susan Boser), Kimberly Reiger, and Shelly R. Boroday (Derrick); grandchildren, Kayla R. McCarthy (Logan), Robby Golden, Madisen Reiger (Timothy Meredith), Timothy Reiger, Jr (Katlynn Davis), Bradley Reiger, Keith Reiger, and Stella Reiger; great-grandchildren, Lilliana, Logan, Jr, Legacy, Elijah, Kianna, and Lana; sisters, Carolyn McBride, Jeannine Louie, and Joy Coleman; brothers, Gerald Sansavara, and James Reiger; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be private. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Charles Neill O’Quinn Sr., 88, of Kingstree, South Carolina, passed away at home on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
Charles was born September 20, 1936, in Lumberton, North Carolina, the son of the late Charlie O’Quinn and Lillian Kinlaw O’Quinn. He graduated from North Carolina State University in 1958, where he graduated with degrees in Forestry and Surveying. Mr. O’Quinn joined the United States Army after college and served honorably. He worked as a Land Surveyor and Forester in the Low Country of South Carolina for most of his life. He was an active member of several professional associations and an active member of Union Presbyterian Church. Mr. O’Quinn married Sara Beth Thompson in 1960. They lived at several locations in Berkeley and Williamsburg Counties before moving to their Kingstree family farm in 1982. Sara Beth returned home to the Lord in 2017.
Mr. O’Quinn is survived by his three sons, Neill (Laura) O’Quinn of Alexandria, LA, Alex O’Quinn of Kingstree, SC, and Patrick (Dottie) O’Quinn of Clinton, NC. Brothers: Dennis (Jean) of Melbourne, FL and William of Denver, CO. Sister: Sally (Joseph) Pace of Winnabow, NC. Seven grandchildren: Patrick O’Quinn, Jr.; Payton O’Quinn; Mac O’Quinn; Reese O’Quinn; Eric (Jennifer) O’Quinn; Kelly (Jason) Grubbs and Carrie (Chris) Calzavara. Three great grandchildren: Nora O’Quinn, Sofia Calzavara, and Naomi Grubbs.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Union Presbyterian Church with burial in the church cemetery. Following the services, Mr. O’Quinn’s family will receive friends and family in the Martin Building at the church. In lieu of flowers, please address memorials to Union Presbyterian Church, c/o Diane Boyd, 114 E. Brooks Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Karen Elaine Rohe, 77, passed away peacefully Friday, November 29, 2024, at Lake Marion Nursing Home in Summerton, SC.
Karen was born August 30, 1947, in Ft. Worth, TX, the daughter of the late William David Rohe, Jr. and Mary Catherine Nexsen Rohe. She graduated from a specialty school in Falls Church, VA and was a resident at The Coastal Center in Ladson, SC for 45 years. During that time, her parents took her home to Mt. Pleasant every week until their health began failing. When they were unable to have her at home they visited her in Ladson each week. Karen loved music, especially Elvis Presley and animals of all kinds, but her favorite gift by far was a magazine. She thumbed through them carefully, enjoying the feel of the paper in her hands and the beautiful colors in the pictures.
Karen was deeply loved by her parents and family members that spent time with her. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her aunt, Ruth Nexsen of Kingstree; cousins, Steve Nexsen of Florence and Melanie Nexsen of Kingstree, Ed Seegar of Charleston, and Cheryl Hall of Benson, NC; an uncle, George Rohe of Montoursville, Pennsylvania; and numerous other cousins in Pennsylvania.
Graveside funeral services for Miss Rohe will be held at 2 PM Sunday, December 1, 2024, at Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to Coastal Center, 9995 Miles Jamison Road, Ladson, SC 29456. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Dr. Raymond H. Dominici, a distinguished surgeon, community leader, and recipient of South Carolina’s prestigious Palmetto Cross for extraordinary heroism, died at his home in Salters, South Carolina. He was 86.
Born on October 16, 1938, in Somerville, New Jersey, Dr. Dominici displayed an early commitment to excellence, achieving Eagle Scout status and excelling in academics and athletics. He graduated from Lehigh University in 1960 with a degree in biology, where he was a member of the Theta Delta Chi fraternity and lettered in multiple sports, including ice hockey and lacrosse.
Dr. Dominici earned his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia in 1965 and completed his surgical residency at Maine Medical Center. His career was marked by service to his country and community, beginning with his role as Chief of Surgery at the Naval Hospital in Key West, Florida, during his tenure as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy.
After his military service, Dr. Dominici established himself as a trusted general surgeon, practicing in Maine, Mississippi, and South Carolina. In 1984, he settled in Kingstree, South Carolina, where he became a cornerstone of the medical community. Dr. Dominici’s leadership extended beyond the operating room, serving as Chief of Staff at Williamsburg County Memorial Hospital and as a surgeon for the South Carolina State Guard.
In 1990, Dr. Dominici was awarded the Palmetto Cross, South Carolina’s highest military award, for his extraordinary bravery during the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo. He risked his own safety to treat burn victims from a gasoline explosion and fire in Greenville, SC, ensuring the injured were cared for and the danger zone was secured. His actions reflected unwavering dedication to duty and service.
A devoted advocate for rural healthcare, Dr. Dominici played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of healthcare facilities in Williamsburg and Clarendon Counties. As chairman of the hospital board, he spearheaded efforts to build new hospitals, ensuring access to quality care for underserved communities.
Dr. Dominici was a member of several professional organizations, including the American College of Surgeons, the Maine Vascular Society, and the Society of American Gastrointestinal Surgeons. He also authored publications on surgical advancements, including a widely cited study on snowmobile injuries in Maine.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Dominici was an avid cyclist and outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and sailing. A devoted husband to his wife, Judith, he was the proud father of four children: William and his wife Jie, James, Doctor Ray and his wife Rebecca, and Susan and her husband Doctor JT Paulley. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Sophia, William, and Gabrielle Dominici, children of William; Brooke Dominici, daughter of James; and Miles and Charlotte Paulley, children of Susan and Doctor JT. Dr. Dominici is also survived by his siblings: Robert and his wife Pamela, Paula and her husband Dave Munger, and Debra and her husband Doug Jones, who shared his close-knit family values and supported him throughout his life.
Dr. Dominici’s legacy of compassion, heroism, and commitment to his community earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from his peers and local leaders. In 2018, he was recommended for the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.
Dr. Raymond H. Dominici leaves behind a legacy of service, skill, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. He will be deeply missed by his family, colleagues, and the many patients whose lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life Service for Dr. Dominici will be 3PM Thursday, December 12, 2024, in the Williamsburg Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive guests in the funeral home following the service.
Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Edmund Dantzler Whetsell, 88, died Friday, November 15, 2024, at Black River MUSC.

Mr. Whetsell was born May 23, 1936, in Bowman, SC, a son of the late Joseph Edmund Whetsell & Louise Dantzler Whetsell Shuler. He was a 1958 graduate of Clemson College.

He was a member of Kingstree First Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and on several committees. He was the last living member of the Building Committee for the present sanctuary.

Mr. Whetsell is survived by his wife of 65 years, Iris Cheek Whetsell; three sons, Joe (Pam) Whetsell, Mark (Lee Anne) Whetsell and John (Dawn) Whetsell; grandchildren, Krysten (Lance) McInnis, Eric, Timothy (Miranda), Matthew (Ashlee), Nathan (Madeline), Rylan, Morgan, Elizabeth, Mary, Jesse, Amy, Olivia Whetsell and Megan White; great grandchildren, Claire McInnis, Thomas, Lucas, Aiden, Scarlet and Waylon Whetsell; brother-in-law, Allen Rust; sister-in-law, Sandy Whetsell; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. Wayne Whetsell and his sister Joanne W. Rust.

Mr. Whetsell was employed by Santee Electric Coop. and retired as its CEO.

Funeral services for Mr. Whetsell will be held at 2 PM Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home with burial in Kingstree Memorial Gardens. The visitation will be Monday, November 18 from 6-8 PM at Williamsburg Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kingstree First Baptist Church, 400 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

 

On the evening of the 15th of November 2024, Lola Mae Jacquelin Hudson Morris, loving mother of four, from Surfside entered heaven to be with her savior and Lord, Jesus Christ at the age of 95.

Born on January 4, 1929, in Indiantown, Lola was the eldest daughter of the late landowners and farmers, Harry Daniel Hudson and Fannie Mae Galloway Hudson. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Kingstree.

Lola began her life as a farmer’s daughter in the tobacco fields of Indiantown. Where she welcomed the birth of each of her four adored younger sisters, Margie, Elise, Jeannie, and Harriet. Raised during the depression era, they were taught the meaning of hard work, perseverance, and the love of Jesus.

As a child growing up in that close knit community, Lola loved riding her horse “Nellie” in the rows of planted fields and attending church and school at Indiantown Presbyterian with her family and friends. She remembers as a young girl, her father climbing up on the roof near the steeple to help extinguish a fire. She tasted her first Coca-Cola at the age of 10 as an allowance for working on the farm.

At the age of 16, tragedy struck. Her father, who rests in the cemetery at Indiantown was struck down by a malignant brain tumor in the prime of his life. At only 45 years old, he left his beautiful bride with five little girls and no one to work on the farm. Broken hearted, their mother made the hard decision that the four younger girls would travel to Thornwell Orphanage, where they would spend the rest of their childhood. Being the oldest, at 16 Lola remained behind and worked hard to help her mother, taking a job at Ruffin’s Dept Store in Hemingway after school and on Saturdays sending what she could to her sisters and visiting them on the weekends so that they could be a “family” again.

After graduating in 1947, Lola moved to Kingstree and started working at the Kingstree Laundry. While in Kingstree, Lola met the love of her life, Harry Lee Morris. Married on October 24, 1954, after Harry’s return from the Korean War as a US Air Force Flight Engineer. Buying a home on the edge of town (which was then known as Hwy 52), they immediately began their family with the birth of their children Debrah Lee, Cindy Lou, Cheryl Lynn, and Bryan Keith. Their life was centered around family and friends. With weekends being the time for kids and adults alike to gather together for dinner parties, dancing to vinyl records blasting from a console Zenith stereo cabinet or besting each other at cards and board games at the many fold-up tables. Then off to church on Sundays and back to work on Monday where Harry owned a TV repair business beside an old-fashion Drug store and Soda Fountain shop in the heart of downtown Kingstree. Coming home with huge cardboard boxes to be carved with windows and doors for playhouses.

Sadly, that life ended after only 13 years when Harry passed away in 1967. Lola went back to work at the Kingstree Laundry and with the help of her sweet mother and cherished sister Jeannie, raised and provided for her four children, then ages 10, 7, 6 and 2. Always adventurous and brave, in 1977 she was one of the first women in SC to buy and run a full service gas station, she “dubbed” the Morris SOC Station.

From 1983 to 1998, Lola went to work as a caregiver for friends of the family (Rosa Compton and Ida Mae Woods) in Summerville where she could be close to Jeannie. Driving back and forth from Kingstree every other weekend.

In 1998, Lola retired and sold her home in Kingstree (which “fittingly” the buyer wanted for a restaurant) and moved to Murrells Inlet. There her greatest of joys was cooking endless amounts of food (with the help of her beloved grandson Shane), having all her family gather and talk about the adventures in their lives. With laughter and a self-characterization “I was born with too much humor”, she would let her opinion be known.

Lola came to live with her “baby girl” Cheryl, where she would sit outside and “you-who” to all that passed by. Charming and flirtatious, she was showered with flowers, food, gifts and adoration by friends and neighbors. She loved being teased about all her boyfriends that called her sweetheart, songbird, and beautiful. She would tell everyone that came to visit that she loved them.

Lola loved holding her phone to her ear and listening to 60’s music and old gospel hymns. Singing “You are my sunshine” “If you’ve got the money” “I saw the light” and “Jesus Loves Me”

Brave and so very precious of heart, Lola will forever be cherished and loved “More than all the stars in the Sky” by her beloved family: children, Debrah Hardee of Aynor, Cindy (Rick) Tisdale of Socastee, Cheryl Harrelson of Surfside Beach, and Bryan (Linda) Morris of  Surfside Beach; her adored “Nicky”, James Michael Griggs of Surfside; 2 bonus daughters, Kathy Vermeland of Andrews and Deborah “Little Deb” Scott of Murrells Inlet; grandchildren, Adam (Jolena) Hardee of Gallivants Ferry, Noah (Christy) Hardee of Gallivants Ferry, and Lindsy Morris of Myrtle Beach; great grandchildren, Mackenzie Forrett, Isaac Hardee, Layla Hardee, Emma Hardee, and Olivia Hardee; and sisters, Margie (Marvin) Stewart of Ashville, NC and Harriette (Max) Walker of Tucker, GA. In addition to her parents and her husband Harry, Lola was preceded in death by 2 sisters, Elise H. Scott and Jennie Lee Bowman, a much beloved grandson, Shane Harrelson, and sons-in-law, Luke Hardee and Rex Harrelson.

Graveside funeral services for Mrs. Morris will be held at 1 PM, Monday, November 18, 2024, at Williamsburg Cemetery. Her family will receive family and friends at Williamsburg Funeral Home before the funeral from 11:30 to 12:45 PM.

Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

 

 

 

Judi Bradham Ivey, 76, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 7, 2024, at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, SC.

Judi was born May 8, 1948, in Kingstree, SC, the daughter of the late Dantzler Emory “D.E.” Bradham, Jr. and Miriam Epps Bradham.  She was a graduate of Kingstree High School and attended the Baptist College (now Charleston Southern) in North Charleston.  After working for 40 years at Farmers Telephone Co-op, Judi retired with pride, having dedicated her entire professional life to the company.  It was the only job she ever held, and she approached it with a sense of purpose that earned her respect and admiration from all who worked with her. 

In retirement, Judi or “Udi,” as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren, found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved shopping, going to the beach, spending time at the lake, and enjoying the serenity of her family farm. Above all, her heart was full of love for her family. Whether it was spoiling them with little gifts, sharing stories, or simply spending time together, Judi’s love and generosity were evident in every aspect of her life. Her family, friends, and community were often the beneficiaries of her selflessness.

Judi was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her sons, Jim (Dawn) Ivey of Florence and Mark (Amy) Ivey of Kingstree, her cherished grandchildren, Aiden Ivey, Addison Ivey, Peyton Ivey, and Ali Ivey, and her beloved companion, Jack Matthews of Cades.  In addition to her parents, Judi was preceded in death by her brother, Dantzler Emory “Dan” Bradham, III. 

Graveside funeral services for Ms. Ivey will be at 3 PM, Sunday, November 10, 2024, at Kingstree Memorial Gardens.  Judi’s family will receive family and friends at Williamsburg Funeral Home before the funeral at 1:30 to 2:45 PM.  Memorials may be made to McLeod Health Foundation, McLeod Hospice Services, PO Box 100551, Florence, SC 29502-0551 or to a charity of one’s choice. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

James Nelson “Jimmy” Joye, 76, husband of Elizabeth Cooper “Libby” Joye, died Friday, October 18, 2024, at his home in Garden City surrounded by his beloved family.

Mr. Joye was born November 21, 1947, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late William LeGrande Joye, Sr. and Olive Elizabeth Buddin Joye. He was a graduate of Kingstree High School and was a veteran of the SC National Guard. Jimmy worked in the finance department at Williamsburg Memorial Hospital and retired as CFO at Clarendon Memorial Hospital. He was a past officer of HFMA (Healthcare Financial Management Association) of South Carolina. He was a member of Mouzon Presbyterian Church where he was a former deacon. Jimmy enjoyed time with family and friends, often the personable host (with his wife Libby ever at his side) of gatherings at Black River and Garden City. He enjoyed the river, the beach, cooking, golf and karaoke, and was an avid Gamecock fan!

Survivors are his wife of 55 years, Libby, his sons, Greg Joye and Jason (Stacy) Joye and grandsons, Jameson and Grant Joye, all of Murrells Inlet, SC and his beloved sister, JoAnn Joye McCollough of Kingstree. In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his brother, William LeGrande Joye, Jr. and a sister who died as a child, Mary Elizabeth Joye.

Funeral services for Mr. Joye will be 11 AM, Monday, October 21, 2024, at Mouzon Presbyterian Church with burial in the church cemetery. Mr. Joye’s family will receive friends and family in the church following the interment. Memorials may be made to Mouzon Presbyterian Church, c/o Kay Frierson, 33 Lynchburg Road, Kingstree SC 29556.

Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

 

 

Brenda Jean Smith Fore, 65, wife of Robert Brian Fore, died Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center after a long illness.

     Brenda was born May 9, 1959, in Kingstree, SC, a daughter of Vonnie Prosser Smith and the late Merrill Gamble Smith. She was a 1977 graduate of Williamsburg Academy and received an associate degree from Florence Darlington Technical College. Brenda retired from Santee Electric Co-Op after many years of service. She was a member of Central Presbyterian Church. Brenda displayed a great love of life to everyone around her. She loved her family dearly and they were the center of her life. She was an adventurous person who enjoyed all rides, especially a roller coaster. She was the sister, aunt, or cousin that all the family wanted by their side when anything fun was going on. At the same time, she had a soft heart when it came to animals of all kinds. Brenda loved being at the beach, but she enjoyed nothing more than a glorious Saturday afternoon in Clemson!

          In addition to her mother Vonnie and her husband Robert, Brenda is survived by:  her daughter, Crystal A. Cooper; grandchildren, Brayden Jessica Floyd and Ollie Robert Floyd; sister, Sherry (Myron) Kellahan; niece, Anna K. (Ryan) Brown; nephews, Robert M “Bert” (Kerri) Kellahan, and Joshua “Josh” (Emily) Kellahan; and 9 great nieces and nephews. Brenda was preceded in death by her father Merrill Smith, her daughter Jessica Barton Fore, her maternal grandparents, Bert and Odean Prosser, and her paternal grandparents, Gamble and Pauline Smith.

     A celebration of Brenda’s life will be 2 PM Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home with burial to follow at Bloomingvale Baptist Church Cemetery near Andrews. Brenda’s family will greet friends and family beginning at 1 PM just prior to the funeral. Memorials may be made to Central Presbyterian Church, PO Box 421, Kingstree, SC 29556.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Robert Van Dukes, 52, passed away unexpectedly in Kingstree, SC, on Monday October 14, 2024.

     Van was born in Florence, SC on February 4th, 1972, to Robert D. Dukes and Toby Ann Morris Dukes. He was a 1991 graduate of Williamsburg Academy and received a bachelor’s degree from Coastal Carolina University. Van had a passion for baseball and played at both Anderson University and Coastal Carolina before serving as pitching coach at Williamsburg Academy for 15 years. Mr. Dukes worked previously for Albany International Corp. and DSM before becoming a salesman for Cornerstone Insurance. Van was a member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church where he formerly served as a deacon.

          In addition to his parents, Bobby and Toby of Kingstree, Van is survived by his children, Hall Dukes and Gretchen Dukes, both of Kingstree.

     A celebration of Van’s life will be held at 3:30 PM, Monday, October 21, 2024, at Kingstree First Assembly with visitation to follow the service. Memorials may be made to Kingstree First Assembly, 872 Sumter Highway, Kingstree, SC 29556.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

 

James Daniel “Jimmy” Burgess, 85, husband of Laura Coward Burgess, died Monday, October 14, 2024, at MUSC Health Black River in Cades, SC.

     Mr. Burgess was born March 7, 1939, in Kingstree, a son of the late Joseph Burgess and Selma Smith Burgess. He was a graduate of Kingstree High School and served six years in the South Carolina National Guard. He was a supporter and founding member of Kingstree First Free Will Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday School Superintendent for many years. Jimmy and his family donated property for the church and helped with the labor and construction of the building. He retired as Superintendent of the SC Department of Transportation after 33 years of service. Following his retirement Jimmy could be found in his shop repairing or rebuilding anything from weed eaters to backhoes. He was always generous with his time and his resources and used his mechanical ability to bless any in need. Jimmy’s first love was his Heavenly Father followed by a deep love for his family and friends.

     Surviving Mr. Burgess, in addition to his wife Laura, of the home, are: his children, Sara Beth (Dan) Godwin and Stephen (Pam) Burgess, all of Kingstree; grandchildren, Candace (Benji) Powell, Scott (Fiancé Peyton Brown) Burgess, Faith Burgess and Hope Burgess; and great grandchildren, Rivers and Makenzie Powell. In addition to his parents, Mr. Burgess was preceded in death by a son, Joseph Daniel “Danny” Burgess, a granddaughter, April Marie McKenzie and one sister Patty Burgess Meeks.

     Funeral services for Mr. Burgess will be 3:00 PM, Thursday, October 17, 2024, in Kingstree First Free Will Baptist Church, with burial in Kingstree Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 PM just prior to the service in the church fellowship hall. Memorials can be made to Kingstree First Free Will Baptist Church, 2348 Sumter Hwy, Kingstree, SC 29556.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

​     Muller Byrdic Tisdale, 77, husband of the late Linda Todd Tisdale, joined his wife in rest Monday, September 30, 2024.

     Mr. Tisdale was born March 8, 1947, in Kingstree, the youngest of 10 children of the late James John Tisdale and Sarah Hannah Byrdic Tisdale. He was a lifelong farmer, leaving school young to help his parents before going on to farm his own land. Later he worked with Brian McClam at his farm for 25 years before retiring. Byrdic loved fishing and had enjoyed hunting when he was young. He was a member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church. He was a wonderful father who dearly loved his children and his grandchildren.

          He is survived by: his sons, Raymond (Mitzie) Tisdale of Lake City and Ricky (Lee) Tisdale of Galivants Ferry; his daughter, Kathy Tisdale (William) Gordon of Kingstree; grandchildren, Maci (Justin) Gause, Kell Tisdale, Sarah Louise McClary, Nina Marie Gordon, and Liam James Byrdic Gordon; great grandchildren, Ava Rae Gause and Owen Gause; numerous nieces and nephews who he loved very much; and best friends, George Phillips and Brian McClam. In addition to his parents and his wife Linda, Byrdic was preceded in death by his siblings, Louise Tisdale, Ella Nora Artis, Carl Tisdale, Annette Jones, Hilton Tisdale, Norma Gibbons, Lauren Tisdale, Almetta Harley, and Earl Tisdale.

     Funeral services for Mr. Tisdale will be 4:15 PM, Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church with burial to follow at Tisdale Cemetery. Byrdic’s family will greet friends and family just prior to the service at 3:30 PM at the church. Memorials may be sent to Tisdale Cemetery, c/o Mike Tisdale, 1149 Doc Kellahan Road, Kingstree, SC 29556 or Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 3905 Big Woods Road, Kingstree, SC 29556.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com