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

Alice Syvertsen Molokie, 97, wife of the late Edward Molokie, died Sunday, July 7, 2024, at her home in Burlington, NC, surrounded by family.

     Mrs. Molokie was born July 8, 1926, in Richmond, NY on Staten Island, a daughter of the late Thom Syvertsen and Constance Tellefsen Syvertsen.  She was a graduate of Port Richmond High School and was a secretary at several businesses during her career including Wallerstein Company, Kraft International, and Kingstree High School. Alice enjoyed knitting, sewing, and especially helping others. She was a faithful volunteer at Williamsburg Regional Hospital and the Felician Center, both in Kingstree, SC, where she and Ed lived for many years and made dear friends. She was a member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church in Kingstree and The Sons of Norway.

      Mrs. Molokie is survived by: a daughter, Kathy Molokie; a son, Robert Molokie; granddaughters, Erika Kennedy and Lauren Polsino; and a great grandson, Brandon Kennedy. In addition to her parents and her husband, Mrs. Molokie was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Syvertsen and two sisters, Doris Meyer and Ethel LaForge.

     Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Monday, July 15, 2024, at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. Alice’s family will greet friends from 10 AM until 10:45 AM in Grace Hall at the church. Interment will be at 2 PM in Florence National Cemetery, 803 E. National Cemetery Road, Florence, SC.

     Memorials may be made to The Felician Center, 908 Thorne Avenue, Kingstree, SC 29556 or Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Leslie Purdis Gause, 68, died Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Carlyle Senior Care in Kingstree, SC.

Mr. Gause was born July 13, 1955, in Williamsburg County, a son of the late Ossie Purdis Gause and Linnie Mae Powell Gause.

Mr. Gause is survived by: an aunt, Maedine Gause, uncles, Barney Gause and Thomas Gause; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Mr. Gause was preceded in death by his uncles, Donald Lee Gause and Claude Gause, and his aunts, Juanita Gause Griffin and Ilaphine Gause Feagin

Graveside funeral services will be 11 AM Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Kingstree Pentecostal Holiness Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Kingstree Pentecostal Holiness Church, Building Fund, 37 McCall Road, Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Herman Joseph Price, 39, died Monday July 1, 2024, at his home. Mr. Price was born May 27, 1985, a son of Manda Alsbrooks and the late Herman Duncan Price. He was a high school graduate and became a certified welder. Herman enjoyed hunting and fishing.

     Mr. Price is survived by; his mother; two sons, Kyle Price and Levi Price; a daughter, Michaela Price, a brother; Mackey (Autumn) Tisdale; a sister, Dorothy Kinard, both of Florence, and many nieces and nephews.

     Mr. Price was preceded in death by his father Herman Duncan Price.  Funeral services will be private.

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

     Van Tuong Do, 63, died Monday, June 24, 2024, at MUSC Florence Medical Center.

     Mr. Do was born January 17, 1961, in Vietnam, a son of the late Do Thanh Mai and Kieu Thi Sau. He was a 1980 graduate of Great Falls High School in Great Falls, Montana and attended the University of Montana. Mr. Do was the owner and operator of #1 Nail Salon and Spa in Kingstree. He worked long hours but loved to keep in shape and enjoyed being on the water and watching television.

      Mr. Do is survived by: his fiancée and mother of his children, Nga Thi Xuan Nguyen “Jackie”; daughters, Ashley Nhi Nguyen Do and Alexis Nhu Do; brothers, Do Linh The, Do Thi Tuong- Vy, Do Thi Kieu Thu, and Do Thi Kim Chau. In addition to his parents, Van was preceded in death by a brother, Do Thanh My.

     Information for a memorial service will be announced shortly.

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

Ora Lee Parsons Rigby, 96, wife of the late William Joseph “Bill” Rigby, passed away Wednesday June 12, 2024, at her home on Sullivan’s Island, SC.

     Mrs. Rigby was born July 27, 1927, in Georgetown, SC, a daughter of the late Jesse Wilmot Parsons and Lillie Viola Avant Parsons. She was a graduate of Winyah High School. Mrs. Rigby was an active member of Kingstree United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir.  

     Ora Lee enjoyed traveling, cooking, and shopping for new additions to her fabulously colorful closet. She was a merciless card player and a lifelong loyal fan to both the Braves and the Gamecocks. She had a beautiful soprano voice and loved to share her singing with family, friends, and Church. Ever a generous and gracious hostess, Ora Lee always had open doors and welcoming arms, her home the center of warm and happy memories for all her guests. Most of all, she enjoyed time with her adoring children and grandchildren, all of whom fondly called her Bobble.

      Mrs. Rigby is survived by: two daughters, Mary R. (Edward) Sanders of Mt. Pleasant, SC and Leigh R. (Kyle) Wilkins of Cincinnati, OH; four grandchildren, Joseph Sanders, Rigby Wilkins, Reagan Wilkins, and Ryan Wilkins; and a number of nieces and nephews.

     In addition to her parents and her husband, Mrs. Rigby was preceded in death by four sisters, Eva Parsons, Lizzie P. Schuler, Mayum P. Arnette, and Bernice P. Barrett and four brothers, Sterling G. Parsons, J.W. Parsons, Delmar Parsons, and Olin Parsons.

     Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, June 16, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree. Mrs. Rigby’s family will greet friends beginning at 1 PM just prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Kingstree Memorial Gardens. 

     Memorials may be made to Kingstree United Methodist Church, 510 N. Longstreet Street, Kingstree, SC  29556.

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

     Julius McKenzie, 90, of Kingstree, SC, passed away Sunday May 26, 2024, at Carlyle Senior Care of Kingstree.

     Mr. McKenzie was born on December 17, 1933, in Williamsburg County, the son of the late Rev. David A. McKenzie, Sr. and Edra Conyers.    He retired from Port Oil in Charleston, SC. After retirement, he was the owner-operator of Julius McKenzie Trucking having a total of 60 years in the trucking business. He enjoyed both deep sea and freshwater fishing. Mr. McKenzie attended Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church.

      He is survived by: two sons, Rev. James Michael “Mike” (Vickie) McKenzie of Kingstree, SC, and Julius Christopher (Susan) McKenzie of Fort Worth, TX; grandchildren, Brandy McKenzie of Florence, SC, Casey Barker of Owatonna, MN, Chrissy Springs (Alex) of the Barrineau Community, Lake City, SC, and Joseph and John McKenzie of Fort Worth, TX; great-grandchildren, McKenzie Barker, Vincent Barker, Xander Springs, and Lane Springs; brother, David A. (Joyce) McKenzie, Jr.  of Aynor, SC; and sister-in-law, Debi S. McKenzie of Myrtle Beach, SC.

     In addition to his parents, Mr. McKenzie was preceded in death by his stepmother, Rev. Erleen F. McKenzie, a son, Jeff McKenzie, and brothers, Joseph H. McKenzie and Rev. Timothy H. McKenzie.

     Funeral services will be held at 4:00 PM Friday May 31, 2024, at Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church. The viewing will be held one hour prior to the service time from 3:00 – 4:00 PM at the church. Burial will follow at Sandy Bay Cemetery. 

     Memorials may be made to Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church, Youth Program, 172 Delos Road, Kingstree, SC  29556.

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

Rose Marie Conyers Femal, 68, passed away peacefully in her home on May 22, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

Ms. Femal was born March 9, 1956, in Kingstree, SC, the daughter of the late Elton “Buck” Conyers and Mable Reed Conyers. She attended Kingstree High School. Rose enjoyed doing crosswords, watching football, and coloring.

She is survived by her children; Tina (Richard) Smith, Nicky Vanhoose, Michelle Gardener, Henry “Shorty” (Tamera) Tisdale Jr.: grandchildren; Richard (Hayley) Smith, Taylor Bullard, Shelby Smith, Austin Gardner, Christopher Gardner, Harley Tisdale, Mallory Tisdale, Thomas Vanhoose, Jonathan Vanhoose, Samantha Vanhoose, Tiffany (Jason) Lantagne, and Blake Vanhoose; 15 Great Grandchildren; a brother; Jimmy Conyers and sisters; Debbie Reed and Paula Martin.

A memorial service will be held Saturday May 25, 2024, at 1 PM in the Williamsburg Funeral Home Chapel.  Her family will greet friends from 12pm -1pm at the Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Johnny Hugh Ward, 86, went to his heavenly home on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, passing away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Ward was born July 14, 1937, in Florence County, growing up in the Camp Branch Community. He was the third child of the late Haskell “Lamar” and Lucille Lowder Ward. When he was a third grader, his family moved to Kingstree. During his high school years, he served his country in the US National Guard. He was a 1955 graduate of Kingstree High School. After graduation he worked briefly with the SC Highway Department before obtaining a position at Drexel Furniture Company, working himself up to plant manager prior to retiring with 44 years of service. Shortly after graduation, his life was forever changed after friends set him up with a blind date. After a courtship, he married Barbara Jean Brown of Lake City on May 12, 1962.

During their marriage, together they owned and operated Ward’s Convenience Store for over 30 years. As their children grew up working in the family business, they each learned from their parents’ example a strong work ethic which they carry on to this day.

Another job that was held with never ending love and adoration was that of being caregiver to his “buddy” Jeannie. Until his health no longer allowed, he enjoyed the happiness and smiles that their daily outings to pick up a drink from Sonic brought his “baby daughter”!

Johnny Hugh was a member of the First Baptist Church as well as a former member of the Williamsburg County Alcohol and Drug Abuse board. Having had his own struggle with alcoholism, he served as an understanding mentor to countless others who dealt with addiction. Many have given him credit for helping them on the path of sobriety, ultimately saving their lives. During his retirement, he enjoyed working in his yard, keeping his grass and shrubs cut to perfection while growing all types of beautiful flowers. Keeping his pool in pristine condition provided him with many times of fellowship with family and friends. Always, he had various chips, sodas, and ice cream ready to serve his guests. All his family, grands, and their friends will remember the fun Ward pool days. Two of his favorite teams were the USC Gamecocks and the Atlanta Braves, however they paled in comparison to any sporting event that involved his grandchildren! He was always at as many of their games or other events as he could. A twinkle in his eye and a huge smile were always present on his face as he spoke of their accomplishments.

Surviving to cherish the love and memories of this ever-faithful man are: his son, Johnny (Kerry) Ward of Kingstree; daughters, Jennifer (Dino) Heathcott of Kingstree, Jessica Ward of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Jeannie “Mrs. Walker Texas Ranger” Ward of the home; his grandchildren, Tripp, Tate, Teague, and Tanner Ward, Robbie (Hannah) Heathcott and Madelyn Heathcott, Kandler Ward and Camron McClary and bonus grandchildren, Conrad and Michael Balder; and his soon to be born in June, great grandson, Baker Heathcott; a special niece, Bitzi Ward Owens, as well as many other nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mr. Ward was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Barbara, brothers, Lajoe George and James “Jimmy” Lamar Ward, sister, Adelle Ward Gamble, and a daughter-in-law, Rhonda McCants Ward.

Funeral services will be held at 1 PM Friday, May 24, 2024, at Kingstree First Baptist Church, 400 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556, with burial to follow at Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Mr. Ward’s family will greet friends in the Family Life Center at the church beginning at 11 AM. Memorials may be made to the Williamsburg Academy Booster Club, PO Box 2, Kingstree, SC 29556, or a charity of one’s choice.

The family wishes to express our gratitude for the love and support shown to us by so many. An extra special thanks to Jeannie’s caregiver, Barbara Giles, for going above and beyond to do extra things to help Johnny Hugh and his family. Also, we appreciate the various medical staff, especially the 6^th floor staff at McLeod Hospital and Amedisys Home Health and Hospice for the compassionate, loving care given to Mr. Ward throughout this journey. We thank God for you all. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.

JoAnn Sauls Dorrell, 86, wife of the late Ralph McDuffie “Jeepy” Dorrell, Jr. passed away peacefully in her home on May 20, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

Mrs. Dorrell was born February 16, 1938, in Kingstree, SC, the daughter of the late Joe Willard “J.W.” Sauls and Annie Dell McGee Sauls. She was a graduate of the University of South Carolina and earned a Master of Education Degree from SC State College and taught in the Williamsburg County School District elementary education for 37 years at Hebron, Cades-Hebron and Anderson Primary. JoAnn was an active and faithful member of Kingstree Second Baptist Church where she served as an adult Sunday School teacher, church historian, choir leader and member, and a member of WMS.

She is survived by: her children, Deborah Ann Halstead and Ralph M. “Rusty” (Brenda) Dorrell, III; grandchildren, Morgan (Charissa) Halstead, Joshua (Kameron) Halstead, Lindsay (Fernando) Morales, Samuel (Annie) Moore, Katelyn Bowen, Dustin Dorrell, and Wesley (Katie) Dorrell; and great grandchildren, Amelia Moore, Kelley Moore, Camila Morales, Leonor Morales, Sophia Morales, Elliott Vargas, Naomi Vargas, Vivian Halstead, and Brooklyn Halstead, and Gavyn Williams. . In addition to her parents and her husband, JoAnn was preceded in death by her daughter, Terri Bowen and her brothers Steve Sauls and Luther Sauls.

A celebration of JoAnn’s life will be held at 11 AM Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Kingstree Second Baptist Church, with burial to follow in Kingstree Memorial Gardens.  Her family will greet friends at the church beginning one hour before the service. Memorials may be made to Kingstree Second Baptist Church, 20 Dennis Avenue, Kingstree, SC 29556.     Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

     Dorothy Louise “Dottie” Thornhill Gause, 70, passed away peacefully in her home on May 18, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

     Ms. Gause was born in Georgetown, SC on November 13, 1953, a daughter of the late Bob Edward Thornhill and Reba Sauls Thornhill Keefe. She was a graduate of Williamsburg Academy and attended Williamsburg Technical College. Dottie retired from NanYa Plastics and was a former secretary to the Williamsburg County Supervisor. Dottie loved going to the beach, camping with her family, shopping, and especially spending time with her kids and grandkids. She was a member of Kingstree Church of God.

          She is survived by: her daughters, Casey Gause (C.J. Jolly) of York, SC, Jessica (James) Colston of Oak Harbor, WA, and Brittany (Kevin) Carmon of Kingstree; grandchildren, Marleigh Carmon, Gabriel Carmon, and Paisley Colston as well as her honorary grandchildren, Noah Matthews and Raelyn Lee; her sister, Nancy T. Wilkes; her brother, Robert Thornhill; and former spouse, Ernest Gause. In addition to her parents, Dottie was preceded in death by her stepfather, Bill Keefe, and her niece Donna Wilkes Matthews. 

     A celebration of Dottie’s life will be held at 5 PM Monday, May 20, 2024, at Sandy Bay Pentecostal Holiness Church. Her family will greet friends at the church beginning one hour before the service and again following the service.

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

Carl LeRoy Cantey, Jr. passed away peacefully at home with his wife and children by his side on May 17, 2024, at the age of 77.  He was the only child of Carl LeRoy and Eleanor Baylor Cantey.  

LeRoy enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his greatest passion was dove hunting.  He loved sitting in the field with his beloved dog Cindy.  It didn’t matter if they killed any or not.  For over 30 years, he enjoyed going to the lake for a long weekend with his friends and fishing with his partner Jay Brown. They made many memories over the years. 

LeRoy was a master at cooking Bar-B-Q at Christmas for family and friends.  And, the Bar-B-Q chicken he cooked for his dove shoots was the icing on the cake.

LeRoy was a farmer all of his life and many “wanna be” farmers often called him for his expert advice.  He was known for working on his equipment more than he actually farmed.

He was a past Board Member of the Farm Agency and also the Farm Bureau.  He was a Deacon and Elder at McDowell Presbyterian Church in Greeleyville. 

Even though Liz and LeRoy only had two children, they helped mentor the young men who will carry him to his final resting place. 

LeRoy was married to the love of his life for 55 years.  He is survived by his wife Elizabeth “Liz” Oliver Cantey, his son Jeff of Salters, his daughter Kim of Monroe, NC, his Goddaughter, Chelsea Harrison of Rock Hill, and his sleeping partner “Baby” cat. 

The celebration of LeRoy’s life will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home in Kingstree, SC. Interment will be at Kingstree Memorial Gardens following the service.  Visitation will be from 5:30 to 7:30pm on Tuesday, May 21 at the funeral home.  

                     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 obituaries page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

     Julianne “Julie” McElveen Brown, 84, widow of James L. Brown, II of Kingstree, SC passed away peacefully in her home on May 2, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

      Mrs. Brown was born February 22, 1940, a daughter of the late Wilbert Erskine McElveen and Florence Epps McElveen in Kingstree, SC. She was a graduate of Kingstree High School and attended Winthrop College.

     She returned home from college to marry her beloved high school sweetheart Jimmy Brown. They had two beautiful children, Lauri and Jay, whom she shared her love, life and faith with along with everyone she knew.

     She was a former employee for Baxter Laboratories and Kelly Nursing Home. She was a lifelong member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church and taught Sunday School for 25 years. She was active in her community and church throughout the years. Mrs. Brown enjoyed fellowship with her many friends but most of all she enjoyed time spent with her beloved children and grandchildren at family celebrations, on their annual beach trips, and Clemson weekends. She loved cooking and sharing meals with family and friends.

     She is survived by her daughter, Lauri B. (Andy) Stevenson; her son, James L. “Jay” Brown, III; her grandchildren, Edward A. Stevenson IV (Jordan), William S. Stevenson (Haley), James M. Stevenson (Owens), Millicent Ann Brown; great granddaughters Preston and Evelyn Stevenson; and her sister Mary Jo Smith. In addition to her parents and her husband, Mrs. Brown was preceded in death by her sister, Ginny McElveen Peele and her beloved granddaughter, Emma Kate Brown. Mrs. Brown’s family would like to give special thanks to the wonderful caregivers and the staff of Amedisys Hospice for the loving care given to her.

     Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM, Friday, May 10, 2024, at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church with burial at Kingstree Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Brown’s family will greet family and friends in Grace Hall at the church from 10 to 11 AM just prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556.

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

Nellie Morris Elliott “Nell” Mims, 88, wife of the late Theron “Buddy” Mims, died at home in Kingstree, surrounded by her beloved family, Sunday, April 14, 2024.

     “Miss Nell” was born June 25, 1935, in Williamsburg County, a daughter of the late Christopher Lawrence Morris and Sara Ellen Tisdale Morris. She was a graduate of Kingstree High School and Williamsburg Technical College. She was co-owner of Kingstree Laundry and retired as a quality control lab tech from Baxter Labs. Mrs. Mims was a member of Second Baptist Church where she sang in the choir, taught a children’s Sunday school class, and was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary. She was a member of VFW, American Legion, and Williamsburg Academy Founding Parents. She will be remembered for her sweet smile and her chocolate and carrot cakes.

      Surviving Mrs. Mims are: a son, Clifton Russell (Monica) Elliott of Conway, SC; 2 daughters, Teresa (Chuck) Sugar of Franklin, TN and Melinda (Chris) Dooley of Vidalia, GA; 2 step-daughters, Janice Frye of Kingstree and Nan (Jamie) Harrington of New Zion, SC; grandchildren, Russell Travis (Sarah) Elliott of Jacksonville, FL, Raven A. (Chuck) Mobley of Decatur, AL , Elliott L. Moshell and Jordan A. Moshell, both of Orange Park, FL, Blakely D. (Dylan) Jones of Eustis, FL and  Brennan M. Dooley of Celebration, FL; step-grandchildren, Derek, Tiffany and Brett Frye, Ashley (Wes) Coker, and Jessica Harrington; great grandchildren, Rachel Elliott, Christopher Elliott, Laurel Mobley, and Zachariah Mobley; step- great grandchildren, Coker and McKayla Frye, Quinton and Callie Jesse Coker, and Reese Harrington; several nieces and nephews; and honorary children and grandchildren, Matt & Nikki Adams and their children, Ashlyn and Lauryn Adams.

     In addition to her parents and her husband Buddy, Nell was preceded in death by her first husband, Alex Clifton Elliott; sisters, Elizabeth Burrows, Lillie Tisdale, Barbara Taylor and Elma Mills; and brother Martin Morris.

     The family wishes to extend a very special thank you to Dr. Mims and staff, Amedisys Health nurse, Crystal Epps Scott, and Amedisys Hospice staff, Jimmy, Melissa, Marilyn and Suzanne.

            Funeral services, conducted by Rev. Walt Proctor and Rev. Donnie Witherspoon, will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Williamsburg Funeral Home with burial in Piney Forest Cemetery, Andrews, SC. Mrs. Mims’ family will greet friends at 5-7 PM Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Kingstree Second Baptist Church, 20 Dennis Avenue, Kingstree, SC 29556.  Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituaries page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

     Edgar Heyward Baker, 67, died unexpectedly at his home in Kingstree, SC on Thursday, April 11, 2024.

     Heyward was born August 13, 1956, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late Emiel Cathcart Baker and Opal Desiree McGee Baker Harrison. He was a graduate of Williamsburg Academy and attended College of Charleston, and Wharton Business School. After 29 years with the Department of Agriculture, Heyward retired as Director of Federal Crop Insurance’s Risk Management Division in Washington, DC and returned to SC to stretch his career with crop insurance to become a consultant and salesman and start a new career as a real estate professional. Upon returning to his hometown of Kingstree, Heyward renewed his interest and love for his community and was appointed to the Town of Kingstree Board of Zoning Appeals and was elected to the Williamsburg County School Board. He loved and was loved by his family, and he always made sure to attend every softball game, dance recital or beauty pageant involving his great nieces. Even though Heyward never fathered a child, he loved children and was father to many. He believed strongly in education, hence his interest in becoming a member of the Williamsburg County School Board. He also wanted all to be able to further their education and be successful in life. Heyward loved to travel, especially when it involved great meals in fine restaurants.

      Surviving Mr. Baker are: his nieces, Leesa Baker (Kee) Belue and Emily Baker (Josh) Kellahan; great nieces, Avery and Ellie Belue and Emelia and Tanner Kellahan; and sister-in-law, Nancy Harrington Baker, all of Kingstree. He also leaves behind cousins and dear friends who will miss him greatly. In addition to his parents, Heyward was preceded in death by his brother Emiel Cathcart Baker, Jr.

            A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, May 11, 2024, at Mount Vernon Methodist Church, 84 Mount Vernon Road, Greeleyville, SC 29056.   Heyward’s family will greet friends beginning at 10 AM in the fellowship hall at the church just prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Mount Vernon Methodist Church, Cemetery Fund, c/o Amy Sanders, 3508 Sandy Bay Road, Kingstree, SC 29556 or Williamsburg Technical College Foundation, 601 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., Kingstree, SC 29556. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituaries page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com