Christopher Lee Ward, 29, died in an accident in Kingstree on Sunday, March 13, 2022.  

      Mr. Ward was born in Charlotte, NC, a son of Elizabeth Ann Stanley and the late James Edward Thaxton II.  He was adopted by Raymond Otis Ward, Jr. and Nell Mouzon Ward. He graduated from high school and was employed in tree removal.

       Surviving Mr. Ward, in addition to his biological mother of Kingstree and his adoptive parents of Kingstree, are: a daughter, Madison Lee Ward; the mother of his daughter, Carrie Lee Tisdale; brothers, Jamie (Amanda) Nexsen of Kingstree, Ryan Otis Ward of Kingstree, James Thaxton, III, Travis Thaxton, and Joseph Powell; sisters, Rhonda “Boz” Boswell and April Thaxton; sister-in-law, Summer Ard; and nephew, Russell Donavan Guy. Christopher was preceded in death by his biological father, a brother, Michael Ard, an uncle Randal Alan Guy, and a niece, Mary Elizabeth Guy.

     A memorial service will be held in Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church on a date to be announced. Memorials may be made to Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church, Youth Group, 172 Delos Road, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

  James Murray McCrea, 89, died Monday, February 14, 2022, at Lake City Community Hospital in Lake City, SC.

      Mr. McCrea was born  June 26, 1932, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late James Robert McCrea and Lottie Blakely McCrea. He attended both Cedar Swamp School and Kingstree schools. Murray was a farmer and the owner and operator of Murray’s Tack Shop in Kingstree. He was a founding member of Cedar Swamp Lancing Association and participated in lancing tournaments around the state for many years. Not only was he a knowledgeable horseman, but Murray was also successful at raising and training hunting dogs at his business, Murray’s Kennels. Additionally, Murray planned and hosted an annual trail ride for all of his friends, family and neighbors. He was a member of Central Presbyterian Church.

     Surviving Mr. McCrea are: his daughter, Tammy (Billy) Covington of Kingstree; granddaughters, Lisa M. (Mitchell) Zimmer of Arizona, Sandra J. McCrea (Kevin Zaino) of Massachusetts, Ashley M. Greenwood of Connecticut, Amy C. (Chris) Smith of Columbia, Casey C. (Jason) Coker of Florence, and Blakely C. (J.P.) Tepper of Florence; 16 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; a sister, Ada Jean (J.V.) Moore of Georgetown; and his former spouse, Bertie E. McCrea of Pawleys Island. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Uldine M. Boatwright and Iva Nell McCrea, a son, Ronnie McCrea, and a special friend, Betty P. Eaddy.

     Special thanks from Murray’s family to the staff at Amedisys Hospice, the Lake City Community Hospital ER staff, and his sitters, Tanya Casselman and Cindy Feagin

     Graveside funeral services will be 2 PM, Thursday, February 17, 2022, at Tisdale Cemetery. Mr. McCrea’s family will greet friends in the Fellowship Hall at Central Presbyterian Church following the service.

     Memorials may be made to Central Presbyterian Church, PO Box 421, Kingstree, SC 29556, or Tisdale Cemetery, c/o Steve Brown, 1112 Central Road, Kingstree, SC 29556.

Edward Michael “Mike” Graham, 63, died Saturday February 12, 2022, at his home in Kingstree.

Mr. Graham was born May 30, 1958, in Eustis, Florida, a son of Jane Jaudon Blakley Graham and the late Edward Leon Graham, Jr.  He was a graduate of American School of Campinas in Sao Paulo Brazil and also received an associate degree in Horticulture.

Surviving Mr. Graham are: his mother, Jane Jaudon Blakely Graham, twin sister Patricia Graham Adams, brothers, Kevin Jaudon Graham and Austin Blakely Graham and a niece, Lacey Jane Graham. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Leon Graham Jr.

Graveside funeral services will be 2 PM Sunday, February 20, 2022, at Williamsburg Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Kingstree United Methodist Church, 510 N. Longstreet Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

William Klingman Burgess died at his home in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina on March 6, 2021.

Bill was born on February 23, 1936, in Miami, Florida.  He was the son of Samuel Adamson and Madge Blakely Burgess of Kingstree, South Carolina.

Bill attended Davidson College in North Carolina for two years; however, he realized he wanted a career in engineering, so he transferred to the University of South Carolina where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1959.  He accepted a position with the United States Department of the Navy, where he spent 31 years working in the field of Anti-Submarine Warfare.  During his career, Bill received numerous awards in recognition of his performance including the Navy Superior Civilian Service Award.

After retirement, Bill and his wife, Linda moved to Pawleys Island and later Murrells Inlet. During this time, Bill enjoyed days at the beach, fishing in the creeks, spending time with family and friends, and watching South Carolina Gamecock football.  He was a kind, trusting friend and neighbor.  Bill was also a member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church in Kingstree, South Carolina.

Bill is survived by his wife of thirty-five years, Linda M. Burgess; his sons, Parker Blakely Burgess and Phillip Adamson Burgess, both of Murrells Inlet; daughters, Tracy Ann and husband Ferrell McCollough of Maryland, and Christine and husband Gregory Czumak of Maryland, as well as seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his brothers, Leonard Blakely Burgess and Samuel Adamson Burgess.

Mr. Burgess will be laid to rest 11 AM, Wednesday, February 23, 2022, in Williamsburg Cemetery in Kingstree, South Carolina. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N Academy St, Kingstree, SC 29556 or to SOS Care, 5276 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 or at www.soscaresc.org  

     Peggy Tisdale, 82, went home to be with the Lord on the morning of February 3, 2022.

Peggy was born on November 3, 1939, the daughter of the late Nella Cribb Hobson and Jettie Crib  She was a 1957 graduate of Pleasant Hill High School, Georgetown County, SC.

      In 1961, she married and moved to the Cedar Swamp Community of Williamsburg County, where she built a home, raised her family, and became a member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church.  While a member of CGBC, she was a teacher in the Nursery and Beginner Sunday School Classes and an Alto in the Church choir. In 2004, Peggy joined and became a founding member of Williamsburg Baptist Church. She was a member of the WBC church choir, attending services faithfully, until her health would not allow. The advent of online church services offered her the ability to continue worshipping with her beloved church family, over the last two years Sunday morning services were a highlight of her week.

     In 1993, Peggy began working at Goody’s formerly BC Moore & Sons, where she continued to work until her retirement in 2006. “Miss” Peggy worked in the shoe department and was loved by many. Her greatest loves in life were her Lord and her family. Much to her enjoyment, she was a caregiver to all four of her grandsons from birth until they entered school. She was Granny to her two oldest grands Jamey (Lindsay) and Daniel McKnight, Nanny to her two younger grands, Austin and Carson Tisdale and Nanny Granny to her great-grandson, Luke McKnight.

     She is survived by her daughter, Dena McKnight (Fredis), and two sons, Jeffrey and Chuck Tisdale (Amary). In addition to her children and grandchildren, Peggy is survived by three sisters, Corrie M. Hatcher, Savannah, GA, Sandy C. Eaddy, Florence, SC, Ann C. Hammond, Columbia, SC, one brother, Jed Cribb, Florence, SC, numerous nieces and nephews. Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband, Desmore D. (D.D.) Tisdale, four brothers and one sister.

     Our family would like to thank Dr. Benjamin Wade Lamb, Carlyle Nursing Facility of Kingstree, and the Hospice team with Amedisys Health Care for her care during her final months. In addition, we would like to offer special thanks to caregivers, Dana Williams, Nathene Brown and Victoria Scott for their compassion, friendship and skilled assistance in making Mom’s final days comfortable and peaceful. Memorials may be made to Williamsburg Baptist Church, 8378 Hemingway Highway, Kingstree SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Roy Benjamin Ray, 67, widower of Faye Blocker Ray, died Thursday, January 27, 2022, at Williamsburg Regional Hospital in Kingstree.

      Mr. Ray was born July 1, 1954, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late John Henry Ray, Sr. and Frances Harrington Ray. He was a graduate of C.E. Murray High School and was employed by Lucas Tree Experts. Roy was an avid fisherman and a race car enthusiast and was always telling jokes to friends and family.

     Surviving Mr. Ray are: 2 sons, George C. (Amanda) Ray of Scranton and Roy Christopher (Carla)  Ray of Marshville, Wisconsin; 4 stepdaughters, April (William) Scott of Camden, Rachel Scott (Dave) Thompson and Andrea (Jerry) Hodges, both of Sumter, and Sandy (Doug) Neel of Scranton; a step son, Wayne Curtis-Fox-Mixon of Florence; three brothers, Larry Ray of Georgetown, Johnny (Marty) Ray, of Chambersburg, PA, and Paul (Debbie) Ray of Manning; five sisters, Frances (Laurie) Mouzon of Kingstree, Mary (Donald) Shelley of Andrews, Janie (Jerry) Branham of Greeleyville, Rosie Osborne of Salters, and Doris (Steven) Amerine of Las Vegas; nine grandchildren, Alaina Ray, Olivia Ray, Christopher (Kayla) Scott, Katie (Brandon) Johnson, Aaron Harrison, Brittany Griffin, Sinclair Smith, Lisa Floyd, and Emmett Floyd; eight great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and his wife Faye, Roy was preceded in death by a daughter, Jennifer Ray and a son, George Henry Ray; a brother, Curtis Ray and a sister, Maybel McKnight.

     Funeral services will be 2 PM, Sunday, January 30, 2022, at Greeleyville Free Will Baptist Church. Pallbearers will be Donnie Hydrick, George Ray, Larry Ray, Paul Ray, Christopher Scott, and James Wright. Mr. Ray’s family will greet friends from 6 to 8 PM Saturday, January 29, 2022, at Williamsburg Funeral Home. The committal service will be 2 PM Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at Greeleyville Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.

     Memorials may be made to Greeleyville Free Will Baptist Church, c/o Lola Disher, 177 S. Main Street, Greeleyville, SC 29056. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Mr. Julian Hazel Burgess Jr., 82, husband of Kathy Markle Burgess, died Wednesday, January 26, 2022, in McLeod Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Burgess was born August 25, 1939, in Kingstree, SC, the son of the late Doris Flemming Burgess and Julian Hazel Burgess, Sr. He graduated from East Clarendon High School and furthered his education at Trident Technical College and Clemson University. He was a veteran of the SC National Guard. Mr. Burgess retired from SC Department of Transportation as District Testing Engineer after 43 years of service. He was an avid golfer but truly loved fishing. He was one of the founders of the Bass Masters Association and wrote articles on fishing for Lowcountry Sportsman Magazine. Mr. Burgess was a member of Mount Vernon United Methodist Church.

Surviving Mr. Burgess, in addition to his wife Kathy, are: son, Julian H. “Bo” Burgess III (Stephanie Thorsen) of Calabash, NC; sister, Betty B. Broach (Earnest) of Florence; grandchildren, Julian and  Eli Burgess, and Austin Thorsen of Calabash, NC; one niece and three nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Ann B. Corbett.

A graveside funeral service will be 3 PM, Sunday, January 30, 2022, at Epps Cemetery, Lynchburg Road, Kingstree, SC. Mr. Burgess’ family will greet friends at the cemetery following the service.

Memorials may be sent to Mount Vernon United Methodist Church, c/o Mrs. Amy Sanders, 3508 Sandy Bay Road, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Mrs. Lila Mae Hucks Harrelson, 89, widow of Billy Harrelson, died at home in Kingstree Thursday, January 27, 2022.

     Mrs. Harrelson was born October 21, 1932, in Horry County, a daughter of the late Cox and Carrie Hyman Hucks. She was a graduate of Conway High School and was formerly employed at Talon in Lake City. She was a member of Cornerstone Freewill Baptist Church in Manning, SC.

     Surviving Mrs. Harrelson are: a daughter, Billie Jo H. (Glenn) Lee of Lake City; a son, Tony (Sybel) Harrelson of Maggie Valley, NC; 3 grandchildren, Curtis Green, Mark Harrelson, and Carrie Harrelson; 3 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; and 2 sisters, Geraldine Rozier  and Sylvia Jo (Tom) Prosser, both of Charleston. In addition to her parents and her husband Billy, Mrs. Harrelson was preceded in death by 2 sons, Rex and Tommy Harrelson, 1 sister, and 4 brothers.

     A graveside funeral service will be 3 PM, Monday, January 31, 2022, in Hillcrest Cemetery in Conway, SC. All Covid protocols will be implemented, so please wear a mask.

     The family wishes to thank Mrs. Harrelson’s faithful and loving caregivers, Debbie Cox, Shirley Brown, Linda Stone, and Linda Lee. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Thomas Franklin “Tommy” Spearman, 62, died at home in Moncks Corner, SC Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

   Mr. Spearman was born May 27, 1959, in Sumter, SC, a son of the late John Edward Spearman and Dolores Armstrong “Dee” Spearman. He attended school in Kingstree until his family moved to Summerville, SC, where he graduated from Summerville High School. Tommy graduated from The Citadel in 1982 with a BA in Mathematics and Business Administration. He earned both a Master of IT Management and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University. Tommy was a fierce competitor. In high school he played football, ran track, and wrestled. He also wrestled as a club sport at the Citadel. After graduating college, he continued to compete as a tri-athlete. This spirit of excellence carried over to his career where he worked for several large companies as the Project, Pricing, or Financial Manager. In 2001, he found his way back to Kingstree to work with his brother John at WPMedia, Inc., coordinating equipment purchasing and installation/implementation of wired LAN and wireless WAN networks for small businesses and county agencies. In 2009, he founded PhiXergy Corp, a non-profit formed to submit renewable and clean energy ideas. Tommy retired to live on Lake Moultrie at Moncks Corner. As gifted as Tommy was at computers, networking, and communications, he loved the outdoors and especially gardening and farming.

   Surviving Mr. Spearman are: his brothers, Colonel John Edward (May) Spearman of Lane, Dr. William Lawrence “Billy” (Starr) Spearman of Beaufort, SC, Robert George “Bobby” (Barbara) Spearman of Edisto Beach, SC, and Dr. James David “Jimmy” (Emily) Spearman of Edisto Beach, SC; his sister, Dr. Maridee Jean (Bill) McLaws of Hendersonville, NC; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by a brother, Anthony Christopher “Tony” Spearman.

      A family memorial service will be planned at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Richard Carter “Ricky” Harrington, 72, husband of Jo Ann Baylor Harrington, died at home surrounded by family on Sunday, January 23, 2022.

      Mr. Harrington was born March 29, 1949, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late Jacob Kinder Harrington and Elizabeth ”Lib”  Louise Carter Harrington. He was a graduate of East Clarendon High School  and retired as the maintenance supervisor at Williamsburg Technical College after 25 years of service. Mr. Harrington was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a lifetime member of Black River Hunting Club, serving as a former president and treasurer. He was an active lifetime member of Midway Presbyterian Church, EPC, where he served as Elder, Sunday school teacher, treasurer of Men of the Church, and cook for Bible School, the annual Steak Supper and Ingathering. Ricky was a devoted husband and a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather.

       Surviving Mr. Harrington, in addition to his wife of 51 years, Jo Ann, are: his children, Shelia (Greg) Baker of Versailles, KY, Beth Powell (Johnny Fedorchuk) of Hartsville, SC and Brian (Stephanie) Harrington, of New Zion; grandchildren, Hunter and Bryce Baker of Versailles, KY, Kyla Lawhon of Effingham, SC, William and Jacob McElveen of Hartsville, SC and Lacey Harrington of New Zion, SC; great grandchild, Grayson Herbert of Effingham; a sister, Ann H. (Sanford) Roberson of Lake Junaluska, NC, and many nieces and nephews who he loved dearly. In addition to his parents, Mr. Harrington was preceded in death by a sister, Ellen H. Cantey.

     Funeral services will be 1 PM, Friday, January 28, 2022, at Midway Presbyterian Church, EPC, with burial in the church cemetery. Mr. Harrington’s family will receive family and friends 5 to 8 PM Thursday, January 27, 2022, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree, SC. Memorials may be made to Midway Presbyterian Church, c/o Mr. Wendell Robinson, 1215 Evans Road, New Zion, SC 29111. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Samuel James “Sammy” Tomlinson, II, 91, passed away peacefully Monday, January 17, 2022, in his home.  Sammy was born July 21, 1930, in Kingstree, son of the late Samuel Turner Tomlinson & Lanette Griffin Tomlinson.  Sammy attended Kingstree High School and graduated at age 16.  After high school graduation, he attended Riverside Military Academy and the Citadel where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Commerce in 1952.  After graduation, Sammy married the love of his life Barbara Lifrage and served in the U.S. Army for two years which included a stint in Japan before going to work with his father at Tomlinson’s Food Store.  After his father’s passing in 1971, Sammy continued to run Tomlinson’s Food Store until 1978 when it was sold.  In 1980, Sammy became the operator of the Kingstree Golf Club along with his son, David.  In 1991, Sammy and David purchased the Kingstree Golf Club, changed the name to Swamp Fox Golf Club and expanded the course to 18 holes.  Sammy continued to work at the golf course until his retirement in 2015.  Sammy was an avid outdoorsman who loved golf, hunting, fishing & wildlife conservation.  He inspired his children and grandchildren by his love for “God’s green earth”.

Surviving are: his children, Samuel Turner (Anne) Tomlinson II of Columbia, David James (Susan) Tomlinson of Greeleyville, John Russell (Jane) Tomlinson of Irmo, Jonathan Eric (Alice) Tomlinson of Kingstree, Mayme Tomlinson (Will) Carsten of Cades; his grandchildren, Dr. Sam J Tomlinson III, Elizabeth (Bryan) Fink, Jason (Francine) Tomlinson, Dr. Lauren Tomlinson, Stacey Tomlinson, Dr. Jennifer (Michael) Allen, Russ (Becca) Tomlinson,  Jake (Ashley) Tomlinson, Addie Lowe, Rebecca (Erik) Rome, Sheila (TJ) Lee, Joy (Jared) Strong, Kate Carsten, Allen Carsten; his great grandchildren, Sammy Tomlinson, Hudson Fink, Blakely Fink, Jordan Tomlinson, Olivia Allen, Bennett Allen, Wesley Allen, Everett Tomlinson, Sutton Tomlinson, Salters Tomlinson, Hannah Lowe, Neville Rome, Sybil Rome, and Mack Lee.

He was preceded in death by: his wife, Barbara Lifrage Tomlinson, his sister, Peggy Tomlinson McGill, and his brothers Joel Tomlinson and Kenny Tomlinson.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, January 20, 2022,  at  Kingstree Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to Williamsburg Regional Hospital Foundation, PO Drawer 568, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Barbara Ann Tucker Walls, 73, wife of Roger Walls, died Saturday, January 15, 2022, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC.

      Mrs. Walls was born July 2, 1948, in Greenville, SC, a daughter of the late Paul and Liz King Tucker. She was a homemaker and a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She enjoyed cooking, baking and playing with her grandchildren. Mrs. Walls was a member of Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church.

       Surviving Mrs. Walls, in addition to her husband Roger, are: her children, Dale Walls of Ninety Six, SC, Tammy (Ken) Thames of Alcolu, and Tracy (Chuck) Webb of Kingstree; eight grandchildren, Kenneth (Laci) Thames, Phillip (Amber) Thames, Christian (Evan) Floyd, Bonita (Jordan) Costello, Ashley (Dylan) Purvis, Montana Webb, Dalton (Dawnyel) Walls, and Karrington Walls; eight great grandchildren, Will, Emma, Chloe, Natalee, Tucker, Austin Wayne, Kinley, and Ryland; and her sister, Sheila (Ed) Shockley of Simpsonville, SC. In addition to her parents, Barbara Ann was preceded in death by a granddaughter Kaitlyn and a great grandson Noah.

     Funeral services time and date will be announced shortly. Memorials may be made to Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church, Youth Group, 172 Delos Road, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Mary Elizabeth “Beth” DuBose Cottingham, 90, widow of Walter Carlisle Cottingham, D.V.M., died peacefully at home in Kingstree Wednesday, January 12, 2022.

Mrs. Cottingham was born July 1, 1931, in Florence, SC, the only child of the late David Cousar DuBose and Possie Burgess DuBose. She grew up in Sardinia, SC, in Clarendon County. Beth graduated from Gable High School Class of 1949 as the first 12^th grade class. She was attending Coker College in Hartsville, SC in March of 1950 when she was stricken with Polio and spent a year in Warm Springs, GA, coming home in March of 1951. She reentered Coker in the Fall of 1951and graduated in 1955. Beth graduated from Union Presbyterian Seminary, Richmond, VA, in May, 1957, with a Master of Arts degree in English Bible. In August of 1958, Beth married Walter Cottingham. While Dr. Cottingham attended Veterinary School at the University of Georgia, Mrs. Cottingham worked as secretary to the Counselor of Freshmen men. In 1961-62 when the couple moved home to Kingstree, Beth taught at East Clarendon High School. From 1962 to 1980, she taught History and Bible at Kingstree High School. She was named Teacher of the Year in 1966. For several of those years, Beth worked as a part-time assistant to Guidance Counselor, Elizabeth Scruggs. A unique feature of Kingstree High School was that she taught a Bible Class in the public schools with no state funds utilized. Local churches contributed to the fund which paid that part of her salary. After retirement, she taught briefly at Williamsburg Technical College. Mrs. Cottingham was an active member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church where she was an ordained Elder, served as women’s Bible teacher and served on a variety of committees.

A service of worship and thanksgiving to celebrate Beth’s life will be held 2 PM, Friday, October 7, 2022, at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556.

Danette Livingston Frye, widow of McNeil Marion Frye, died Monday, January 10, 2022, at Carlyle Senior Care in Kingstree.

      Mrs. Frye was born September 17, 1947, in Columbia, SC, a daughter of the late Daniel H. and Blanche Robinson Livingston. She was a graduate of North High School and Columbia Commercial College. Danette retired from Exchange Bank of Kingstree after thirty years. She was an active member of Kingstree United Methodist Church where she  taught the Nursery Sunday School Class for many years and was a member of the Epworth Circle. Danette was also active in the American Legion Auxiliary while her health allowed.

     Surviving Mrs. Frye are: her daughter, April Frye (Donnie) McDonald of Cades; granddaughter, Nicole McDonald of Cades; 2 step granddaughters, Olivia (Alex) Richburg of Cades and Dixie McDonald of Kingstree; 2 great grandchildren, Joanna Richburg and Kenna Miles; and a special niece, Vicki Grooms of Fort Mill, SC. In addition to her parents and her husband, Danette was preceded in death by her son Danny Frye, and 2 sisters, Delores Grooms and Alice Byrd.

     Graveside funeral services will be 2 PM Saturday, January 15, 2022, in Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Danette’s family will greet friends following the service in the cemetery.

     Memorials may be made to Kingstree United Methodist Church, 510 N. Longstreet Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

     Milton Brown Maness, Jr., 73, fondly known as “Binky” to most people, died Saturday, December 18, at Smoky Ridge Health and Rehab in Burnsville, North Carolina, after a long illness.  His children often called him “Superman” because of his ability to produce a science project for them overnight.  His grandchildren called him “Papa Bink’” while the children of Plum Crazy (a kid’s nightclub in Spartanburg, SC, designed and run by both Binky and his son, Drew) called him “Papa Bear”.

     Binky was born January 10, 1948, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a son of the late Jo’ Ellen Reed Maness and the late Milton B. Maness.  As an avid young basketball player, Binky started his own exhibition team called the Junior Trotters which played half-time shows at colleges up and down the East Coast.  He was a 1966 graduate of Spartanburg High School, a three-sport athlete who still holds records there.  Binky played baseball for the University of South Carolina in his freshman year, graduating in 1974.  After college, he created his own comic strip called “The Local Yokels” which ran in upstate SC and NC.  In addition to owning his own art and photography business, Binky worked as a reporter for the Spartanburg Herald; a Univserv Representative for the SC Education Association; manager of Jacobs Photo in Summerville, SC; manager of Worldwide Camera in Charleston, SC; and a photographer for APT nationwide.  Binky was a member of South Estatoe Baptist Church in Burnsville and a past member and deacon of Kingstree First Baptist.

     Survivors,  in addition to his wife of almost 43 years, Eileen Thompson Maness of Burnsville, are his dearly loved son, Andrew Reed Maness of Summerville; his two stepdaughters whom he loved as his own, Laurel Lifrage Wade (Scott Steele) of Union, SC; and Tamara Jane Lifrage (Ned Threadgill) of Kingstree, SC; a special granddaughter, Lyla Addison Smith Lifrage of Burnsville whom he considered his fifth child; one brother, Mark Maness, of Spartanburg; three sisters, Melinda Gray (Chip) of Greenville, SC; Molly Horton (Mike Small) of Gaston, SC; and Mia Maness of Charleston, SC; three grandchildren all of Union, Seth Wade (Lacey); Logan Wade (Hunter Wolfe); and Nick Wade (Teri); and three great grandsons, Mason Wade, Myles Wolfe, and Jax Wade.  A favorite aunt, Patsy Reed Turner, also survives as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, Binky was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Hayley Fust (Paul).

     Binky loved God and his family.  He also enjoyed watching sports on television and taking various family members on trips, both national and international.  A memorial service will be held at 4 PM Saturday, January 8, 2022, at Kingstree First Baptist Church in Kingstree, South Carolina with Reverend Ian Geimer officiating.  Memorials may be made to South Estatoe Baptist Church in Burnsville or Kingstree First Baptist Church. The family would like to thank Blue Ridge Hospice and Smoky Ridge Health and Rehab for their care and assistance.

Rayford McCrea

Supply, NC

Mr. Rayford Hugh McCrea, 87, passed away Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at home in Supply, North Carolina.

Mr. McCrea was born December 9, 1934, in Williamsburg County. He was a son of the late James McDowell McCrea and Vonceil Parnell McCrea. He attended Williamsburg County schools and served in the U.S. Army. Mr. Rayford retired from Baxter Labs in Kingstree after 33 years. He enjoyed wood working and loved his family. He was a former member of Central Presbyterian Church in Kingstree then moved his membership to Sabbath Home Baptist Church in Holden Beach, NC.

Surviving Mr. Rayford are, his son, Steven McCrea (Sherry) of Supply NC; grandchildren, Mandy Coffey (Kelly), Stephen McCrea, and Pierce McCrea; great grandchildren, Bailey, Chloe, Brantley, Hunter Todd, Taylor Todd, Jordan Todd (Elissa) and Gunner Todd; two brothers, Henry McCrea and Sammy McCrea; one sister Rounette Rowan (Bob).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary White McCrea; his brothers, Davis McCrea, Sinnott McCrea, and Archie McCrea, and one sister Adelaide Sypolt.

A graveside service will be held Friday, December 17, 2021, in Kingstree Memorial Gardens at 3PM. Memorials may be sent to Williamsburg Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome

David Clyde Cantley, 74, husband of Janice Ethridge Cantley, died Sunday, December 12, 2021, at MUSC Florence.

      Mr. Cantley was born November 26, 1947, in Williamsburg County, a son of the late Charles Boyd Cantley and Hattie Cox Cantley. He attended Williamsburg County schools and owned and operated Cantley’s Metal Works for over 30 years. David was an avid horseman and he loved road trips. He was a member of Bloomingvale Baptist Church.

     Surviving Mr. Cantley, in addition to his wife Janice, are: three sons, Bart Cantley, Brad (Michelle) Cantley, and Brian (Hope) Cantley, all of Andrews; a daughter, Heather C. (Micheal) Cribb of Pleasant Hill; grandchildren, Autumn (Devin) Lambert, Connor Cantley, Joel Cantley, Jan (Ryan) Vause, and Olivia Cantley; great grandchildren, Emilee Cribb and Ellington Lambert; and siblings, Flora Cantley, Charlie Cantley, Elbert Cantley, Joe (Anne) Cantley, Linda (Larry) Howard, and Micheal (Sandra) Cantley; and an “extra” son, Steven Moseley.

     Funeral services will be 3 PM Wednesday, December 15, 2021, with burial in the church cemetery. Mr. Cantley’s family will greet friends at the church from 1 to 3 PM at the church before the service.

     Memorials may be made to Bloomingvale Baptist Church, 7652 Thurgood Marshall Highway, Andrews, SC 29510.

Ms. Bernice Kirton, 90, passed away December 11, 2021 at home surrounded by her loved ones. She was born January 13, 1931, in Charleston, SC, and was the daughter of the late Rebecca Magwood and James G. Murray. Bernice graduated from Charleston High School. She worked at Drucker’s Drug Store for 30 years and three generations of Druckers. Ms. Bernice loved to read, work in the yard and write poetry in her spare time.

Her legacy lives on through her children; Marilyn (Reuben) Phillips of Kingstree, Gwen Strickland of Scranton, and Clyde B. Kirton Jr. (Tammy) of Turbeville. Her grandchildren; Nicole Strickland, Rebecca Strickland, Jennifer Amerson (Stephanie), Steven Chandler (Christie), Joey Phillips (Amanda), Michael Phillips (Melissa), Bubba Kirton, James Kirton, Kim Filyaw (Shawn), and Susan Denise Kirton and great grandchildren; Hannah, Aiden, Bailey, Stevie Grace, Hunter, and Chloe. Ms. Bernice loved all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren more than anything.

She is preceded in death by; a son, James C. Kirton II and her siblings, Gladys Murray, Deloris Emerson, Marion Drawdy, Harold Murray, and Mildred Murray.

The family would like to thank all the workers from Amedisys Home Health; Kim McKenzie, Roxanne Hardy, Francine Barnes, Robin Walsh, Kyle Floyd, and Christine Papp for taking such good care of her. They would also like to thank the Amedisys Hospice Workers; Denise Bryant, Suzanne Arnau, Jerry Fennel, and all the other fill in nurses. Also Dr. Samuel Tomlinson for being her family doctor for many years and taking such good care of her.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at 2 PM and the family will receive friends one hour before the service at Williamsburg Funeral Home.

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

James Victor Rowell, 82, beloved husband of Pearl Casselman Rowell, passed away Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at his home.

     Mr. Rowell was born September 18, 1939, in Kingstree, a son of the late Ervin Robert Rowell and Hallie Boykin Rowell. He was a graduate of Williamsburg High School and attended the University of South Carolina. Victor was a member of many service organizations including the Kiwanis Club, the Jaycees, and served on the Williamsburg Regional Hospital Board.

     Victor served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives for two terms beginning in 1968.

     He, along with his wife of 58 years, were proprietors of Rowell Brothers General Store, a historic Rowell family business. He was a farmer and operator of E. Robert Rowell Cotton Gin.

     Mr. Rowell went on to serve as the Disaster Preparedness Director for Williamsburg County for nearly twenty years. During this time, he established the Williamsburg County 911 Service and served as 911 Coordinator until he retired in 2007.

     Victor lived out his remaining years at his home in Trio with his wife Pearl.

      Mr. Rowell is survived by his wife Pearl, his daughter Karen (Ron) Delagrange of Augusta, GA, and his son, Jim (Missy) Rowell of Trio, five grandchildren,  Jared and Noah Delagrange and Victoria, Ben and Jimmy Rowell a sister, Roberta Benton of Georgetown, and a brother, Thomas Rowell of Trio. In addition to his parents, Victor was preceded in death by a young son, James Victor “Little Vic” Rowell, Jr., and two brothers, Robert Rowell and Norman Rowell.  

     Funeral services will be 2 PM, Friday, November 19, 2021, at Trio United Methodist Church with burial to follow in Andrews Memorial Cemetery. Mr. Rowell’s family will greet friends 6 to 8 PM Thursday at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree. Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Trio United Methodist Church, c/o Bob Rowell, 180 Apache Road, Georgetown, SC 29440. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page  at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

Rev. William Charles Graham, 74, husband of Janice Brown Graham, died Sunday, November 14, 2021, in McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC.

     Rev. Graham was born October 11, 1947, in Phillipsburg, PA, a son of the late Jean Mattern Graham and Howard Arnold Graham.  He attended Penn State University and graduated from North Greenville Junior College. Rev. Graham was a retired Southern Baptist minister who served many churches in South Carolina including Cades Baptist Church in Cades, Pleasantdale Baptist in Lancaster, Cherry Grove Baptist in N. Myrtle Beach, Killian Baptist Church in Columbia, Piney Forest Baptist Church in Andrews, Sauldam Baptist Church in Ravenel, and Gallivants Ferry Baptist Church in Gallivants Ferry. He was currently a member of Cades Baptist Church.

          Surviving Rev. Graham, in addition to his wife of almost fifty years, Janice Graham, are two sisters, Linda Peters and Jenny Obleman, both of Pennsylvania.

    A memorial service will be 11 AM, Tuesday, November 16, 2021, in Cades Baptist Church. Memorials may be made to Cades Baptist Church, PO Box 69, Cades, SC 29518. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page  at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.