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

Flora Mae Player Cantley, 83, wife of the late Hamilton “Laverne” Cantley, died Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Carlyle Senior Care in Kingstree, SC.

Mrs. Cantley was born in Georgetown, SC on February 11, 1941, a daughter of the late John Player and Hattie Cox Cantley. Flora was a graduate of Kingstree High School and a homemaker. She was secretary at Charleston Heart Pine Company for many years and was a substitute teacher at both Williamsburg and Blakeley schools over the years. Flora was a member of Bloomingvale Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday school teacher. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren whom she loved dearly. She found joy in the little things in life.

She is survived by: her daughter, Lisa R. (Ricky) Mobley of Hemingway; two sons, Hamilton L. “Bubba” (Jodie) Cantley and Richard Wayne “Richie” (Casey) Cantley, both of Kingstree; grandchildren, Brandon Cantley, Michael Johnson, and, Chris (Taylor) Fulton, all of Kingstree, Amber (Greg) Thompkins of Georgetown, Hannah (Dylan) Skipper of Andrews, and Madison Cantley and Hadley Cantley, both of Kingstree; three great grandchildren; and her siblings, Charlie Cantley, Elbert Cantley, Joe (Ann) Cantley, Linda (Larry) Howard, and Michael (Sandra) Cantley, all of Andrews. In addition to her parents and her husband of 58 years, Laverne, Flora was preceded in death by a son Timothy Laverne Cantley, grandson, Justin Ross Williams and a brother David Cantley.

A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 PM, Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree. Funeral services for Mrs. Cantley, officiated by Rev. David Mullins, Rev. Donnie Witherspoon, and Rev. Paul Miles, will be held at 2 PM, Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Bloomingvale Baptist Church followed by burial in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Brandon Cantley, Brian Cantley, Christopher Fulton, Mike Johnson, Dylan Skipper, and Greg Thompkins. If you’d like, please join the family in wearing purple to honor their dear matriarch.

Memorials may be made to Bloomingvale Baptist Church, 7652 Thurgood Marshall Highway, Andrews, SC 29510, Alzheimer’s Association, online at www.alz.org, or Carlyle Senior Care, Patient Fund, 401 Nelson Blvd., Kingstree, SC. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

     Lesley M. Drucker, beloved wife of James D. Reid, peacefully passed away at age 74 on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. She was born on May 18, 1950, in Kingstree to the late Harriette “Jeanne” Goldsmith Drucker and Harold Herbert “Herb” Drucker.

     Lesley is survived by her husband, James D. “Jim” Reid, of Columbia, SC; cousins, Dr. Louis (Miriam) Drucker, Faye Drucker Spiegel, and Sam (Mandy) Drucker.

            Lesley grew up in Kingstree, SC and graduated from Kingstree High School. Her passion for history led her to the University of South Carolina, where she earned her doctorate in Archaeology and Anthropology. Dr. Drucker was an owner of AF Consultants as well as a contractor for the State of South Carolina and Federal Government, where she worked as a team leader for archeological projects in the southeastern United States. She was an avid reader and contributing author of archaeological literature.

     In celebration of Lesley’s life, a graveside service will be held at Beth Or Cemetery at 2 PM, Sunday, September 29, 2024. Memorial gifts may be directed to the Temple Beth Or Cemetery, 4502 Smilax Place, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.

     The family would like to express a special thanks to her caregiver, Darlene Boston, for her kindness and compassion.

Franklin Barnabus “Frank” Swicord, 77, died at home in North, SC on Saturday, September 7, 2024, after an illness.

     Frank was born June 11, 1947, in Moncks Corner, SC, a son of the late Simon Paul Swicord and Emmaline Rozier Swicord. He was a long-haul truck driver for many years before retiring.

      Survivors are: children, Cliff (Donna) Swicord, Tim (Elissa) Swicord, Theresa (Ken) Jones, Tony Vance, and Steven (Ashley) Vance; grandchildren, Audrianna, Jay, Chandler, Henry, Camryn, Carrington, Kelsie, Anthony, Coleman, and Dillon; great grandchildren, Jaxson, Charleigh and Emmaline; brothers, Charles (Rhetta) Swicord and Johnny (Elaine) Swicord and sister-in-law, Vicki Swicord. In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Jan Rackley Swicord and a brother, Simon Paul Swicord, Jr.

          Funeral services will be private.

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

Mary Belle Cooper “Tooie” Geddings, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away at age 96 on Thursday, September 5, 2024. She was born on May 2, 1928, in Williamsburg County to Dulcie Bell Lifrage Cooper and William Robert Cooper, the second of three children. She had two brothers, William Robert Cooper and George Edwin Cooper.

Mary is survived by her children, Dulcie Maxine (Jon) Ranta, Abigail Fletcher Haddock, and Elizabeth Carol Newton, her grandchildren, Dargan Dewey Haddock, Ashley Clayton Haddock, Stacy Carol Ranta, Jon Kevin Ranta, and Wessley Stradford Newton, her five great grandchildren, and her sister-in-law, Mildred Canty Cooper. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dewey Geddings and her sons-in-law, Henry Haddock and Herman Newton.

Mary grew up in Salters, SC along with her two brothers. She would always ask Robert, “Can I come too?” That is how she got her nickname, “Tooie”. After graduating from Kingstree High School in 1946, she briefly attended secretarial school in Columbia, SC. She met her husband Dewey when he returned home from World War II. They were married in 1947 and opened a general store in Lane, SC, which they ran until retiring in 1983. The store was a gathering place for many of the residents of Lane. Mary and Dewey fixed suppers of either catfish stew or chicken pilau and all who were present were welcome to join the family for supper. People also gathered there for a friendly card game of Canasta and after the store closed Mary continued to meet with friends and family to play Hand and Foot. Mary was a member of the Lane Methodist Church for her entire adult life and was a member of the choir for many years.

In celebration of Mary’s life, a funeral service will be held at Lane Methodist Church at 3 PM, Sunday, September 8, 2024. Burial will be private. Her family will receive friends and family in the Smiley Fellowship Hall from 2 PM to 2:45. Memorial gifts may be directed to the Lane Methodist Church, PO Box 7, Lane, SC 29564.

The family would like to express their appreciation to all the caregivers, family, and friends who have shown their love and support during this time. We especially recognize the Robert Cooper family who has walked this journey with us every step of the way.

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

Charles M. “Chuck” Lowder 67, husband of Margaret “Pat” Lowder, died at his home in New Zion, SC, surrounded by his family on Thursday, August 29, 2024.

Chuck was born November 19, 1956, in Sumter, SC, a son of the late Millard Eugene Lowder and the late Iris Evelyn Scott. He graduated from Sumter High School and the South Carolina Police Academy. Chuck worked for the police department in the City of Sumter and Town of Lake City, Sheriff departments in Florence County, Sumter County, Clarendon County and Williamsburg County. He attended Saint Leo University at Shaw Air Force base. Chuck was also a local and long-distance truck driver. Chuck was a member of Cades Baptist Church and the Sons of Confederate Veterans. He was a former music director and adult Sunday school teacher at his church. Chuck had a love for music, friends, and singing, especially BlueGrass music, restoring antique gas pumps and fishing.

In addition to his wife Pat, Chuck is survived by: a daughter Bekki (Jimmy) Crosby, step-children; Chasity (Carl) McCrea, Candi (Phil) Bowen, Yancey (Crystal) Tisdale, Bobby Tisdale Jr, His grandchildren; James Michael (Lakin) Crosby, Johnathan (Haili) Crosby, Ethan Crosby, step-grandchildren; Maceyn (Bubba) McKenzie, Scott Tisdale, Shelby McCrea, Summer McCrea, Landon Bowen and Tyler Bowen, great-grandchildren; Isabella Crosby, Harper Crosby, McClaine McKenzie, Tinsleigh Rae McKenzie, sister; Olivia Bailey of Sumter, step-brothers-in-law; Wayne (Joyce) Witherspoon, Roy Witherspoon, Don (Vicky) Witherspoon, and many nieces and nephews, a special cousin; Cindy (Roger) Quattlebaum of Fort Mill, a special friend; Ken Nesbitt, of Sumter.

In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by; brother-in-law Jack Bailey, Niece Vicki Morris, step sister-in-law, Barbara Witherspoon, and his wife’s parents Sullivan (Margaret) Witherspoon.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to Cades Baptist Church, PO Box 69, Cades, SC 29518.

A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at 4 PM, Thursday, September 5^th, 2024, at Cades Baptist Church. His family will greet friends an hour prior to the service at Cades Baptist Church.

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

Jack Edward “Pete” Phipps, 72, husband of Jannette Baxley Phipps, died at his home in Kingstree, SC, surrounded by his family on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

Pete was born February 24, 1952, in Florence, SC, a son of the late Eloise Morris Tisdale. He graduated from Williamsburg County schools and worked as an electrician at Colonial Rubber for 25 years. Pete enjoyed coaching Little League baseball.

In addition to his wife Jannette, Pete is survived by: two sons, James Phipps and Justin (Melanie) Phipps; grandchildren, Cameron McCutchen, Matthew Phipps, Jesse Phipps, Caitlin Phipps and Madison Phipps; a sister, Bertha Mae Welch; and his beloved fur baby, “Baby Girl”. In addition to his mother, Pete was preceded in death by two sisters, Alene Garner and Delmar Dukes and a brother Fred Tisdale.

A memorial service will be held at 3 PM, Saturday, August 31, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree.

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

Joan Denise Richardson McCrea, 70, wife of Samuel Richard “Ricky” McCrea, died Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC after a long illness.

     Joan was born August 1, 1954, in Baltimore, MD, a daughter of Ruby Jane Johnson Richardson and the late George Warren Richardson. She graduated high school in Baltimore and worked in the office at Tupperware in Hemingway for 17 years. Joan was an adventurous person and always enjoyed riding motorcycles, four wheelers and even all the rides at the theme parks.  She especially loved being with her family, enjoying special times and even the everyday moments of life. Joan attended Williamsburg Baptist Church before her health declined.

      In addition to her mother Ruby and her husband Ricky, Joan is survived by: one son, Clinton Bosley of North Dakota; two daughters, Angie (Andy) Brigham of Johnsonville and Naomi Bosley of Johnsonville; four grandchildren, Jason Brigham, Ryan Brigham, Jeremiah Bosley, and Emory Bosley; and a sister, Sue (Mark) Wisowaty of Bel-Air, MD. In addition to her father, Joan was preceded in death by her brother, Randy Richardson.

          Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree, followed by the burial at Tisdale Cemetery, 615 Cemetery Road, Kingstree, SC. Joan’s family will greet friends at the funeral home in the hour prior to the service.  Memorials may be made to Williamsburg Baptist Church, c/o Merianne Cowley, 2111 Thurgood Marshal Hwy., Kingstree, SC 29556.

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

Robert Brian “Pops” Brockington, 62, died Saturday, July 27, 2024, at his home in Scranton, SC.

     Brian was born April 7, 1962, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late Leonard Eugene Brockington, Sr. and Marbeth Dukes Brockington Cain. He was a graduate of Kingstree Senior High School and earned a certificate in welding from Williamsburg Technical College. He retired from Trimaco as a forklift operator. Brian enjoyed fishing and camping and was an avid fan of WWF (World Wrestling Federation). He also followed football, especially the USC Gamecocks and the Dallas Cowboys. Brian was a member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church.

      He is survived by: his wife, Beverly Bradham Brockington of Greeleyville; his daughters, Bree (Darrick) Porter of Scranton and Brooke (Sam) McKenzie of Lane; sisters, Robin (Robert) Miller of Georgetown and Elaine (Tony) Culick of Kingstree; a brother, Leonard Brockington of Florence; four grandchildren, Laine Lee and  Haley, Raylee, and Kade McKenzie; mother-in-law, Juanita Epps of Greeleyville; six nephews and two nieces, and his beloved fur babies, Belle, Dew-De-Boo, and Mallie.  Brian’s family would like to give special thanks to Jordan Lyerly of Amedisys Hospice for her loving care of Brian.  

          Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree. Brian’s family will greet friends at the funeral home in the hour prior to the service. The burial will be private. Memorials may be made to Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 3905 Big Woods Road, Kingstree, SC 29556 or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or online at www.donate.cancer.org.

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

Barbara Jean Easler “Moma Jean” Brown, 71, wife of the late Jerry Clifton Brown, died Sunday, July 21, 2024, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC.

Jean was born June 19, 1953, in Kingstree, SC, a daughter of the late Henry Robert “Bob” Easler and Elizabeth “Bell” Hanna Easler. She was a graduate of Kingstree Senior High School and was retired after many years of caring for the children of Kingstree and surrounding areas. Jean loved children. Lovingly known as “Moma Jean” to all the community, she attended most events at Williamsburg Academy and was an active member of Kingstree First Baptist Church, where she was the Cookie Lady for children’s church and helped with the shoebox ministries. Jean was an avid doll collector as well as being a master crafter. She loved painting, sewing, and any type of craft. She was a member of Carolina Artisans Doll Club in Surfside Beach.

Moma Jean is survived by her daughter, Tiffaney Brown of Kingstree; siblings, Ann (Carl) Harrington of Kingstree, Frank Easler of Spring Gully, Emmie (David) Grainger of Kingstree, and Bud (Jennifer) Easler of St. Stephen; grandchildren, Sarah Elizabeth Brown of Tennessee, Alea and David Brown, both of Chesterfield, and Avery Jean Brown, Jay, Corinne, and Joan Kellahan, and Tiller Kennedy, all of Kingstree; special family, Beth-a-Lee Brown (Lynn) Cox of Cedar Swamp, Justin and Tracy Kellahan and Chris and Louisa Kennedy all of Kingstree, JW and Toni Ward of Kingstree along with their children, Linlei Ward (Ron Feagin) of Kingstree and Curtis (Kayla) Ward of Georgetown, and David (Martie) Walker of Columbia; and numerous nieces and nephews. We also can’t forget ALL of Moma Jean’s “do no wrong darlings,” as she called almost all children that knew her.

In addition to her parents and her husband Jerry, Moma Jean was preceded in death by her son, Jerry Clifton “Jay” Brown, Jr.

Graveside funeral services will be held 3 PM Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Jean’s family will greet family and friends 6-8 PM Saturday evening at Williamsburg Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Kingstree First Baptist Church, Shoe Box Fund, 410 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Walter Heyward Brown, 81, husband of Joanne Bass Brown, died Monday, July 15, 2024, at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, SC.

Walter was born May 31, 1943, in Kingstree, a son of the late James Laurie Brown and Edna Robinson Brown. He was a graduate of Kingstree High School and received a degree in business administration from Newberry College. Walter retired as Human Resources Manager from Baxter Intl. after twenty-seven years and returned to the workforce at Firestone where he worked for ten more years. He and his wife Joanne have owned and operated Kingstree Memorial Gardens for 34 years. In 1979, Walter was appointed to the Williamsburg Technical College Area Commission Board and served faithfully until his health declined. He was a charter member of Sportsman Hunt Club and a former member of the Kingstree Lions Club. Walter was a lifelong member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Deacon.

In addition to Joanne, his wife of 58 years, Walter is survived by: his sons, Richard Walter “Rich” (Paige) Brown, Mark Heyward (Beth) Brown, and Michael “Ryan” (Anna) Brown, all of Kingstree; grandchildren, Allie Louise Brown, Richard McKuren “Mac” Brown, Alexander Mark “Alex” Brown, Heyward Ellis “Eli” Brown, Henry Edward Brown, Ada Ruth Brown, Holly Elizabeth Brown, and William Gamble “Gus” Brown; a sister, Judy Brown (Leonard) Singletary of Marion; and one niece and eight nephews including Jay Brown who was more like a son. In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by his brother James Laurie “Jimmy” Brown, Jr. and Jimmy’s wife, Julianne McElveen Brown.

A celebration of Walter’s life will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. His family will greet family and friends Friday evening from 6 to 8 PM at Grace Hall at the church. The burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556 or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105or online at www.stjude.org. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Velma Ann Harrington “Muh” McKenzie, 79, wife of the late Dale McKenzie, died on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, peacefully at home surrounded by her beloved family.

     Velma was born September 2, 1944, in Kingstree, SC, a daughter of the late William McDowell “Willie” Harrington and Annie Mae Epps Harrington. She was a graduate of East Clarendon High School and graduated from cosmetology school. Velma owned and operated Velma’s Beauty Salon for many years. She was a member of Midway Presbyterian Church and attended Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church, where she was active with the Golden Years. Lovingly and deservedly known as “Muh” by family and friends, Velma’s children and grandchildren were the core of her life. She attended every event involving them even during her illness.

     Velma is survived by: her son, Tim (Donna) McKenzie of Kingstree; 2 daughters, Lacee Sutton of Kingstree and Candace (Al) Beard of Florence, SC; grandchildren, Taylor (Chris) Fulton, Breana (Ethan Irizarry) Ard, Madalyn Ard, Mack Ard, Steele Sutton, Rivers Sutton, Ann Hadley Sutton, and Skyler Graham; and great grandchildren, Summer Grace and Easton McDowell Fulton. In addition to her parents and her husband, Velma was preceded in death by a son, Monte Dale McKenzie, a sister, Willene Musselwhite and an infant brother, William E. Harrington.

     Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Friday, July 19, 2024, at Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church with burial to follow in Smith Cemetery. Velma’s family will greet family and friends 6 to 8 PM Thursday at Williamsburg Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Sandy Bay Pentecostal Church, 188 Delos Road, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Rhoda Guess Hinson, 67, died at her home in Columbia, SC, on July 10, 2024.

Rhoda was born September 6, 1956, in Kingstree, SC, a daughter of the late James Advil Guess Sr. and Rhoda Mell Brown Guess. Rhoda had a memorable childhood growing up in Lane, SC, with family and friends and those memories extend to the family beach house, “The Guess House”, in Pawley’s Island, SC, where the close family still gathers. She was a 1974 graduate of Kingstree High School and received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina with a minor in French. Rhoda was a retired employee of the State of South Carolina. She loved genealogy, especially Williamsburg County history, even becoming a member of the SC Historical Society. She was an avid Gamecock fan, following all sports closely. Rhoda was a lifelong member of Union Presbyterian Church in Salters, SC. Her love for the Lord was apparent to all who knew her. The loss of her dynamic personality will leave a huge void in the lives of her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Hannah Hayes Mims (Ryan) and grandchildren Ryan Charles and Lydia Hayes; sisters, Vicky Guess McDonald (Steve) and Rebecca Guess McGill (Robert) and sister-in-law Cheryl Guess. Rhoda is also survived by her beloved 5 nieces, a nephew and 13 great nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Rhoda was preceded in death by a sister, Catherine Guess Horton and a brother, James Advil “Jimmy” Guess, Jr.

A celebration of Rhoda’s life will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Union Presbyterian Church, 4501 M.L. King, Jr. Hwy., Salters, SC 29590. Rhoda’s family will greet friends and family following the service in the Martin Building at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Union Presbyterian Church, c/o Mrs. 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