Sheriff discusses Flock cameras use
By Jason Evans Staff Reporter jevans@thepccourier.com COUNTY — Pickens County Sheriff Tommy Blankenship took to social media Sunday night to More »
Three charged in Clemson trafficking case
By Jason Evans Staff Reporter jevans@thepccourier.com CLEMSON — Three people were arrested on human trafficking charges last week after a More »
Wright, Courier recognized for excellence by SCPA
COLUMBIA — The Pickens County Courier is proud to announce that graphic designer Emily Wright has once again been recognized More »
PCSO launches check-in program for seniors
By Jason Evans Staff Reporter jevans@thepccourier.com COUNTY — The Pickens County Sheriff’s Office has begun a program that will see More »
Quilt honors Central’s railroad heritage and the legacy of architect Rob Seel
CENTRAL — A new addition to the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is celebrating the rich railroad history of Central while More »
Pickens celebrates ‘Day They Signed for Liberty’
PICKENS — Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of determined patriots stepped forward and placed their names on More »
Today’s little boy is tomorrow’s grandpa
Ephesians 6:4 (KJV): “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”
As we grow older we realize the days get longer but the years seem shorter. Time becomes precious and seems to be limited by our thoughts, habits and attitudes.
We understand time has placed us in bondage. We are slaves to time. Our lives are governed by watches, clocks and calendars. It seems as though everything in our lives happens on a schedule.
We go to work, eat, sleep, and schedule our free-time activities based on dates and time. Why is this concept important? Time controls our lives and it also limits our lives. We
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Courier Obituaries 7-22-26
SAMANTHA LUCILLE ‘LUCI’ SIMPSON
SIX MILE — Luci Simpson, born Nov. 4, 1976, wife of Michael LeRoy Simpson, passed away on July 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, love and devotion to her family.
Samantha lived a life grounded in her Christian faith. Attending The Mount Church in 
Clemson, she was known for her deep love of the Lord and her god-fearing nature. Her spiritual strength profoundly influenced those blessed to know her, and her trust in God was a guiding light throughout her life’s journey.
Family was at the very heart of Samantha’s world. She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Kenadie Martinez and son-in-law, Tony Martinez; her cherished son, Wyatt and daughter-in-law, Kinley; and her dear son, Garrett Simpson. Samantha was especially devoted to her grandchildren, Ellie Martinez and Ollie Martinez, whose laughter and presence filled her days with tremendous joy and pride.
Samantha also shared a close bond with her sister, Lori Beth Davis, and her brother-in-law, Steven Jeffers. Their enduring connection provided strength and warmth throughout many of life’s moments.
Among her joys, Samantha treasured time spent at the beach, particularly the Outer Banks. These special places brought her peace, relaxation and many cherished memories with her loved ones. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she adored every moment she was able to spend with them.
Though words cannot fully express the profound loss felt by those who loved her, Samantha’s legacy will continue to live on through the faith, love and kindness she showed to all. Her steadfast spirit and compassionate heart will be dearly missed, but the memory of her will remain an enduring source of comfort and inspiration.
Samantha Lucille Simpson’s life was a blessing to everyone she knew, and she will be remembered with deep respect and everlasting love.
Brown Funerals is assisting the family.
SUSAN PARKER GIBSON
EASLEY — Susan Parker Gibson, 65, loving wife of 32 years to Brian E. Gibson, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on June 14, 1961, in Pickens County, Susan was the beloved daughter of Rose Stewart Parker and the late Ken Parker.
Susan dedicated more than 40 years to Pickens County Adult Learning Center, where she inspired countless students through her passion for teaching and lifelong learning. She was a respected leader in her profession, serving as president of various adult learning organizations throughout her career. Outside of her work, Susan enjoyed
Quilt honors Central’s railroad heritage and the legacy of architect Rob Seel
CENTRAL — A new addition to the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is celebrating the rich railroad history of Central while paying tribute to one of the community’s most dedicated historians and preservationists.
The quilt, “ALL ABOARD,” is Quilt No. 307 on the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail. Its quilt tile display is prominently featured at the Historic Central Train Depot on Wood Street,
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Pickens celebrates ‘Day They Signed for Liberty’
PICKENS — Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of determined patriots stepped forward and placed their names on a document that would forever change the course of history. Their signatures on the Declaration of Independence represented more than ink on parchment—they were solemn pledges of courage, sacrifice and an unwavering belief in the promise of liberty.
On Sunday, Aug. 2, the Pickens community will
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Quilt up for grabs
Tickets are now available for a chance to win this beautiful handmade queen-size quilt at the Hagood Community Center/Pickens Senior Center, located at 129 Schoolhouse St., Pickens. The quilt top was generously donated to the ReCraft Store in Greenville and lovingly hand quilted by Dot Moss, Judy Bramel, and Cheryl Budnaitis. Measuring 92 inches by 98 inches, it fits a queen-size bed and can be machine washed on the gentle cycle with cold water. Lay flat to dry. Tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5. The winning ticket will be drawn in late August.Stop by the Hagood Community Center/Pickens Senior Center to see this beautiful quilt in person and purchase your tickets.
Community Calendar 7-22-26
• Food pantry hours announced at PPC
The Food Pantry at Pickens Presbyterian Church is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. To receive food, individuals must present a valid ID showing residency in Pickens County. Pickens Presbyterian Church is located at 311 W. Main St. in Pickens.
• Dacusville Lions to host monthly bingo
The Dacusville Lions Club will be hosting Bingo night on the second Thursday of each month at the Lions Building in Dacusville, located at 1384 Thomas Mill Road. The next Bingo session will be Thursday, Aug. 14. There are set to be 10 games beginning at 7 p.m., and proceeds will go toward funding community event and other community needs.
The games should conclude around 9 p.m. Bingo night will be a family-friendly event and monetary prizes will be available. For more, contact Bob Spalding at (864) 430-0119 or bob@bobspalding.net.
• Pickens Rotary meets Wednesdays
The Rotary Club of Pickens meets at 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Pickens County
