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

Lucy David Ward (May 21, 1945-March 31, 2024) died peacefully at home surrounded by her family.

She was born in Lake City, SC, the daughter of the late Hamer Everett and Janie Small David.

Lucy is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, David O Ward, her three daughters: Jennifer Leigh Spires (Wes), Meredith Jane Carr (Donavan), and Kelly Elizabeth Ward, four grandchildren, and a brother, Dr Hamer Everett David Jr.  She is also survived by a brother-in-law and sister-in-law as well as a number of other relatives including cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Lucy graduated from Winthrop University with a degree in Elementary Education.  She started her teaching career at Six Mile Elementary School in South Carolina.  Her career continued first as mother of her three girls.  Then later, upon her children reaching school age, she returned to preschool education, first at Main St United Methodist Church in Waynesboro, VA, followed by Westlake Village United Methodist Church Preschool in Westlake Village, CA.  Upon returning to South Carolina, she continued preschool education at Christ Church Episcopal Preschool in Greenville, SC.

Her passion for influencing the learning process in preschool age children was exemplified by the creation of innovative visual and tactical teaching aides that could be used in all teaching environments.

Over the years, she enjoyed her time with her grandchildren, playing the piano, sewing, quilting, reading, and church activities including bell choirs and leading “crafty ladies” groups.  In her later years, she crocheted and knitted scarfs, hats, and lap blankets for charitable donations to those in need.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her memory to either (1) Epworth Children’s Home (PO Box 50466, Columbia, SC 29250) or (2) Union Presbyterian Church, Salters, SC, 29590 (c/o Diane Boyd, 114 E Brooks St, Kingstree, SC, 29556).

A Memorial Service will be April 20th at 2:00 PM at Union Presbyterian Church in Salters, SC, 29590.

Robert Francis “Frank” Small, Jr., 60, passed away at his home on March 23^rd, 2024.

Robert was born August 29, 1963, in Lake City, SC the son of the late Robert Francis Small, Sr. and Laura Easler Small Howell. He proudly served in the Army and National Guard. Mr. Small was a member of Greeleyville Baptist Church. Robert loved his Lord first and family second. His third love was his music. Robert was so proud of his two children Zackary and Nicole.  He loved being a member of Redemption Crossing band, playing and singing in church, and writing and recording his own music. This made him so happy.

Surviving Mr. Small are: his son, Zackary Ryan Small of San Antonio, Texas;  daughter,  Laura Nicole Small of Virginia; a sister, Sherry Small (Rooster) Cannon of North Charleston; two nephews, Rhame B. “Chip” Cannon and Matthew Easler Cannon; aunts, Rose Easler and Nell Easler; and many cousins. In addition to his mother and father, Robert was preceded in death by his stepfather, James Armond Howell.  The family would like to extend a special thank you to Rose Easler and Sandy Byrdic for all their love and care.

A visitation will be held on Friday, April 12^th, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Greeleyville Baptist Church with a memorial service following at 2:00 PM.  Memorials may be made to Greeleyville Baptist Church, PO Box 276, Greeleyville, SC 29056. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituaries page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com

Edna Earle Sellers Brown, 88, wife of the late Charles Brent Brown, died at home in Kingstree on Thursday, March 14^th, 2024.

Mrs. Brown was born December 4th, 1935, in Conway, SC, the daughter of the late Nollie Derwood Sellers and Nettie Emily Watts Sellers. She was a graduate of Conway High School and retired from Farmers Telephone Cooperative. Mrs. Brown was a member of Cedar Swamp Methodist Church. She loved her family, especially the time she had with her grandchildren. Edna enjoyed sitting on her front porch and working in her yard as well as shopping with her friends and watching Fox News daily. Mrs. Brown never missed a hair appointment and any time you saw “Nana” she was dressed “to the nines”, looking like Hollywood!

Mrs. Brown is survived by: her son, Greg Brown of Kingstree, SC; daughter, Lisa Sawyer of Evans, GA ; sister, Margie Pendleton of Huntington Beach, CA; grandchildren, Austin (Katelyn) Brown of New York City, NY, Emily Brown of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Jack Calhoun of Charlotte, NC and Christian Sawyer and Dylan Sawyer both of Evans, GA. In addition to her husband and parents Mrs. Brown was preceded in death by her sister, Phyllis Harrell and her brother, Robert Sellers.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mrs. Edna’s dear friends Myra Nuttall and Roland Harrell for all their love and care.

Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Cedar Swamp
Methodist Church with burial in Cedar Swamp Methodist Cemetery. Mrs. Brown’s family will greet friends just prior to the service from 12 to 1:30 PM at the church. Memorials may be made to Cedar Swamp Methodist Church, c/o Myra Nuttall, 272 Cedar Swamp Road, Kingstree, SC 29556.

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

     Arnold Lanier “Bobo” Hanniford, Jr., 68, husband of Gail Tisdale Hanniford, died Friday, March 1, 2024, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence, SC. 

     Mr.  Hanniford was born December 6, 1955, in Kingstree, SC, a son of the late Arnold Lanier Hanniford, Sr. and Ruth Pierce Hanniford. He was a graduate of Hebron High School and was a long-time volunteer firefighter with the Olanta Fire Department. Bobo was a pipe fitter and was in the fire protection business for forty years. He enjoyed fishing, cooking, woodworking, and spending time with family, and he especially enjoyed a good joke. He attended Lane Methodist Church.

         In addition to his wife Gail, Mr. Hanniford is survived by: children, Lillian Abrelle Hanniford Williamson (James A. Williamson), Casey L. Hanniford (Richie Cantley), and Brittany G.. Hanniford; grandchildren, Olivia Williamson, Iva Kate Williamson, Hadley Cantley, and Madison Cantley; sister, Laney Miles; brother, David (Linda) Hanniford; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bobo was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, his maternal grandparents, and an infant brother.

          Graveside funeral services will be held at 4 PM Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Tisdale Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Tisdale Cemetery, c/o Mike Tisdale, 1149 Doc Kellahan Road, Kingstree, SC 29556, or The Shepherd Center, SCI, 2020 Peachtree Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30309-1465 or online at www.shepherd.org

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

Dr. Edward Cecil Johnson, 79, husband of Judy Jackson Johnson, died Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at home in Kingstree, surrounded by family.

     Dr. Johnson was born May 15, 1944, in Charleston, SC, a son of the late Jack Frank Johnson and Annie Louise Falkenstein Johnson. He was a member of the first graduating class at A.C. Flora High School and received a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of South Carolina. He graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN and served as an optometrist in Kingstree for 43 years, retiring in 2022. Dr. Johnson was a veteran of the US Air Force. He left his service as a Captain and served as a navigator in Vietnam. He was a longstanding member of the Kingstree Lions Club and was a former District Governor. His passions included traveling with family and friends, following all USC Gamecocks sports and was a particularly huge baseball fan. Combining two of his loves, he visited every baseball stadium in the Major Leagues. In addition to his optometric practice, Dr. Johnson taught physics and calculus at Williamsburg Academy for many years. He was a faithful member of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, where he served as a deacon, elder, and Sunday School teacher.

     Surviving Dr. Johnson, in addition to his wife of 45 years Judy, are: his son, Brian Edward Johnson of Charleston; his daughter, Kelly J. (Christopher) Fleming of Durham, NC; grandchildren, Anna and Jackson Fleming of Durham; 3 brothers, Dr. Jack F. (Tripp)  Johnson of Gilbert, Dr. William A. (Sandra) Johnson of Elgin, and Dr. R. Michael (Medora) Johnson of Columbia; and many dear nieces and nephews.

     A service of worship and thanksgiving will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. Dr. Johnson’s family will greet friends in Grace Hall at the church from 9:30 to 10:30 just prior to the service.  Interment will be at Ft. Jackson National Cemetery at a later date.  The family would like to express their gratitude to the providers of Amedisys for their care, kindness and attention during Dr. Johnson’s time at home in hospice care.  Memorials may be made to Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 411 N. Academy Street, Kingstree, SC 29556 or the Lions Club International Foundation, online at https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/donate or mail to LCIF, 300 W. 22^nd Street, Oak Brook, IL 60523. Online condolences may be sent to the family on the obituary page at www.WilliamsburgFuneralHome.com.