HAROLD PORTER

SIX MILE — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ira Harold Porter, 80, of Six Mile. He was born on May 23, 1945, in Six Mile, and he peacefully left us on March 23, 2026, from natural causes.  He was a son of the late William Ira and Vallie Stancil Porter.

Harold’s professional journey spanned various roles, beginning with his time at Finley Oil Company, then the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, and Hinkle Jeep Sales. He ultimately found his calling in maintenance at Piedmont Petroleum, where he retired after many years of hard work. His dedication to his jobs and co-workers was a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment.  When he wasn’t working at one his places of employment, you could usually find him painting, where he had a meticulous eye for detail.

A passionate outdoorsman, he loved to bird hunt and fish. He cherished the beauty of nature and spent many joyful hours enjoying these hobbies. His infectious laughter and warm spirit will be missed by all who knew him. He loved to go watch softball tournaments with his son’s family.

He is survived by his two daughters, Carol Sloan (Tony) of Piedmont and Elizabeth Brownell (Alan) of Troutman, N.C.; his son, Shane Porter (Jennifer) of Liberty; his precious grandchildren, Codie Sloan (Meagan Sikes, fiancé), Mackenzie and Katelyn Porter; two sisters, Bobbie Abercrombie of Pickens and Sallie Sowell (Lynn) of Anderson. Each of them will carry forth his legacy of love, kindness, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his companion, Patricia Albertson; two brothers, Ray and Thurston Porter.

Funeral services to honor the life of Mr. Porter will be 2 p.m. March 26, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel.  He will be laid to rest at Liberty Memorial Gardens. The family will greet with friends and family following the service at the cemetery.

In this time of sorrow, let us all remember him for his unwavering spirit, his zest for life, and the love he shared so freely. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers memorials are requested to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson SC 29621.  To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

PEGGY SUE DAVENPORT

EASLEY — Peggy Sue Davenport, 54, loving wife to Todd Davenport, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born on Feb. 13, 1972, in Easley, Peggy was the beloved daughter of the late Marvin “Budman” Patrick and Nancy Sue Davis Patrick. She was a devoted wife and loving partner, whose kindness and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Peggy had a heart full of compassion and generosity, always willing to give of herself and help anyone in need. Her love for her family was the center of her life, and she especially cherished the time she spent with her daughter and granddaughter, who brought her immeasurable joy.

Peggy also honorably served her country in the United States Army Reserve for eight years as a human resource specialist, a role she carried out with dedication and pride.

Survivors include her husband, Todd Davenport of Easley; daughter, Mackenzie Weeden Clements (Trey) of Sandy, Utah; stepson, Taylor Davenport (Kylie Pandolfi) of Windermere, Fla.; granddaughter, Rowyn Clements of Sandy, Utah; and sister, Vicki McWhorter (Ronnie) of Townville.

Mrs. Davenport was predeceased by her parents.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on, March 27, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Davenport family.

 

JENNY FORTESCUE

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jennifer Louise “Jenny” Hunter Fortescue, who left us peacefully on March 20, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on Oct. 2, 1952, in Pickens, she was the widow of Jerry Fortescue and a daughter of the late James Walter “Jim” and Mildred Louise Holliday Hunter.

She spent her life spreading kindness and joy, especially to her beloved dogs, whom she cherished as her own children.

Jennifer dedicated over 43 years of her career to World Finance in Easley, where she was known for her incredible work ethic as an Administrative Assistant. Her warm smile and caring nature brightened the day for many of her coworkers and clients. She truly touched lives with her genuine spirit and will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

She is survived by her brother, James Hunter, and her beloved nephew, Benji Hunter, both of whom she held close to her heart. Also surviving are several other nieces and nephews.

She will be laid to rest beside her husband Jerry in a private graveside service at Flat Rock Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to local animal shelters in Jennifer’s memory, reflecting her deep love for animals. Jennifer leaves behind a legacy of compassion and joy that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she has touched.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

WENDY FAYE ANGEL

EASLEY — Wendy Faye Angel, 61, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on Nov. 22, 1964, in Greenville, Wendy was the cherished daughter of Bob Angel of Easley and the late Glenda Chandler Angel. Wendy had a beautiful love for singing, often filling the room with her voice and bringing joy to those around her. She found great happiness in working in her yard, where she took pride in creating a peaceful and welcoming space that reflected her gentle spirit. Wendy never met a stranger and had a kind and caring nature that drew people to her. She had a special way of making others feel loved and appreciated.

Above all, Wendy loved her family dearly. She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister and aunt, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved. Her warmth, compassion and unwavering love will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

In addition to her father, Wendy is survived by her son, Christian Angel of Easley; her sister, Sherry Hollingsworth (Tommy) of Easley; and her beloved nieces and nephews, Jeremy Angel (Becca), Heather Edmond (Nathan), Josh Angel (Kimberly) and Natasha Stamey (Chris), all of whom she loved dearly.

In addition to her mother, Mrs. Angel was predeceased by her brother, Denny Angel; and brother-in-law, Tim Greathouse.

The family will forever cherish the memories they shared with Wendy, finding comfort in the love and legacy she leaves behind.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Cottingham Hospice House for the exceptional care, kindness and dignity they showed Wendy during her time there. Their support and devotion will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Angel family.

 

BETTY CAROLYN KELLEY

PICKENS — Betty Carolyn Kelley of Pickens went to her Heavenly home on March 22, 2026, at the age of 72.

Born in Transylvania County, N.C., Carolyn was the daughter of the late Lewis and Inez Moore.

She was a devoted member of Liberty Church of God of Prophecy and cared for her home and family, who were her pride and joy. Carolyn loved spending time tending to her flowers, shopping with her grandchildren, attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and going on Sunday car rides with her family and beloved dog, Beethoven.

Carolyn is survived by her daughter, Lisa Rood (Randy); daughter, Tina Mudge (Kenneth); son, Frankie Kelley (Cyndi); son, Lonnie Kelley; grandchildren, Jessica Santillo, Breanna Santillo (Brandon Moore), Justin Kelley, Joshua Kelley, Hannah Kelley, Michelle Dunson (Robert) and Nikki Jourden (Daniel); great-grandchildren, Maddox Smith, Emberly Rood and Enzo Jourden; seven foster great-grandchildren; sister, Doris Galloway; and brother, Mike Moore (Betty). She also leaves numerous nieces and nephews to cherish her memory. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 50 years, Luther Kelley; two sisters, Kathy Jones and Linda Barton; and brother, Benny Moore.

A visitation will be held at Dillard Funeral Home, located at 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway in Pickens, from 2-2:45 p.m. March 26. A funeral service will begin in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home at 3 p.m., with a committal service to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

EVA RACHEL HUDSON YATES

PICKENS — Eva Rachel Hudson Yates passed away on March 17, 2026, at the age of 99.

Mrs. Yates was born on Nov. 27, 1926, in Pickens, to the late Claude and Flora Masters Hudson. She was a very active member of Pickens Seventh-day Adventist Church. Mrs. Yates loved to be outside working in her yard. When she was not in her yard, she enjoyed traveling and dancing, and she was known in the community as a wonderful seamstress. Her family and friends will miss her dearly.

Mrs. Yates is survived by her four children, Norma Chastain Beaudoin (Don), LaRue Yates (Katie), Saronna Yates and Darla Yates; seven grandchildren, Rachelle Byers, Kevin Chastain, Travis Yates (Raynell), Drue Yates (Kim), Zachary Crooks (Jessica), Jesse Crooks and Charlie Crooks; and 12 great-grandchildren, Kolby, Kalobe, Mila Yates, Aiden, Dylan, Colton, Tristan, Eva, Halle, Jayina, Arianna and Jovie Crooks.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Yates was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Yates; son-in-law, Ray Chastain; one great-grandchild, Hyland Byers; and her brother, Thomas Horace Hudson.

The funeral was held on March 23 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home.

The burial followed the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pickens Seventh-day Adventist Church or Agape Hospice Care, located at 130 Thurmond Lane, Suite 211, Clemson, SC 29631.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with their arrangements.

 

DELORES ‘ELINDA’ HARRISON

CENTRAL — Elinda Harrison, 73, passed away peacefully at her home on March 18, 2026.

Born on Aug. 11, 1952, in Anderson, Elinda was the cherished daughter of the late Calvin Mann Jr. and Betty Sue Reece. She was also the devoted and loving wife of the late Jerry Randall Harrison.

Elinda was a woman with a kind and giving heart who found great joy in helping others. She deeply loved her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She was a faithful member of Carolina Community Church and took pride in her involvement with the Order of the Eastern Star. In her free time, Elinda enjoyed painting, expressing her creativity in ways that brought her peace and happiness.

She is survived by her loving son, Allen Harrison of Central, and her cherished grandchildren, Erica White, Rick Mauldin (Jake), Johnny Smith, Debbie Harrison, Jerry Allen Harrison, Callen Barton (Bradley) and Johnathan Harrison.

In addition to her parents and husband, Elinda was preceded in death by her beloved son, Keith Harrison, and her daughter, Carla Edwards.

Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the Harrison family.

 

IRVING ‘WAYNE’ NORRIS

EASLEY — Irving “Wayne” Norris, 73, passed on March 17, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Wayne was born on Feb. 23, 1953, in Greenville, to the late Irving W. and Virginia Trammell Norris. Wayne retired after 28 years as the shop foreman for the city of Greenville. He loved to be outside golfing with his dad and brother. He enjoyed building bird houses, and in earlier days racing motorcycles, and building racing go-cart motors. Wayne was a certified master mechanic. Wayne also was very musically talented. He loved to play, especially with his son, in the Paper Kahnu Band. Wayne was a devoted Shriner and Mason. He was past president of Pickens County Shrine Club, past master of the Keowee Lodge 79 and past district deputy grand master of the 16th Masonic District.

Mr. Norris is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Annette Norris; their son, Jason Norris; one grandson, Justin Norris; a brother, Robert Norris; his sister, Rhonda Gay (Rick); nephew, Matthew Doherty; great-nephew, Cove Doherty; and brother-in-law, Eddie Peek.

Flowers are accepted, or donations can be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville.

Funeral services were held on March 21 with Masonic burial rites, in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home in Pickens.

Burial followed the service at Greenville Memorial Gardens.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Norris family with their arrangements.

 

THOMAS WILLIAM ‘TOM’ BUSMIRE

LIBERTY — Thomas William “Tom” Busmire, 62, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, in Greer.

Born on April 16, 1963, in Brockport, N.Y., Tom was the cherished son of Richard and Kathleen Ebert Busmire of Liberty. He had a deep passion for music and was a talented bass guitarist who played in several bands during his years up North. Tom also had a strong interest in technology and spent much of his career working with computers, including time with companies such as Microsoft and Xerox.

In addition to his parents, Tom is survived by his son, Blake Busmire of Farmington, N.Y.; his siblings, Terence Busmire (Karen) of Tucson, Ariz., Tracy Busmire (Sherry) of Thompson, Ga., and Tina Blake of Acworth, Ga.; and his beloved niece and nephews, Connor, Tori and Tristan Blake.

A memorial service will be held by the family at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Busmire family.

 

JAMES ‘BUCK’ O. TOLLISON

CENTRAL — James “Buck” O. Tollison, 94, of Central, passed away on March 18, 2026.

He was born in McColl, to the late Oscar Henry and Ruth Maye Tollison.

Buck is survived by his cherished wife, Joyce Tollison; son, Fred Paxton; daughters, Arline Caldwell (Mike), Vada Lee and Connie Tollison; brother, Wayne Tollison; grandchildren, Chaz Paxton, Brandon Paxton, Marcus Lee, Nathan Holliday and Samuel Caldwell; and great-grandchildren, Catie Paxton and Carter Paxton.

In addition to his parents, Buck was preceded in death by his brother, Frank Tollison; and sister, Lois Hart.

All services will be private.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home and Cremations, Central-Clemson Commons.

 

DORIS ‘DOT’ WEAVER HOLLIS

EASLEY — Doris “Dot” Weaver Hollis, 90, wife of the late Willie “Bill” Monroe Hollis, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, she was a daughter of the late Theron Randell Weaver and the late Nannie Lou Kennmore Weaver. Dot was employed with Plez-U Food Stores for many years and with Ingles for 10 years. She was of the Baptist faith.

Dot loved sewing and gardening, but her greatest love was for her family. She will be dearly missed by all who loved and knew her.

Dot is survived by daughters, Ann Ryder (Duane) of Liberty and Jenny Harbin of Easley; a son, Jack Adams of Milledgeville, Ga.; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, Dot was predeceased by a son, Phillip W. Adams; a son-in-law, Don Harbin; and a daughter-in-law, Laurie Adams.

A graveside service was held on March 23 at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Easley.

Flowers will be accepted, and memorials may be made in memory of Dot to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory-Downtown, Easley.

 

RUTH MICHAEL

EASLEY — Ruth Michael passed away on March 19, 2026, at the age of 81, surrounded by her family.

Ruth was born in Easley on Dec. 18, 1944, to the late Perry and Charity Seawright Younce. She loved to dance and sing, especially gospel music. Most of all, Ruth loved to spend time with her family.

Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Lloyd Michael; two children, Andrea Wright and Ricky Gibson; seven grandchildren, Ryleigh Adams (Trey), Raylynn Wright, Brittian Gibson, Brennon Gibson, Belle Gibson, Jakob Gibson and Jaxon Gibson; and nine great-grandchildren, Peyton Adams, Preston Adams, Hayslee Todd, Layklan Todd, Carmelo Todd, London Gibson, Remi Gibson, Madelynne Gibson and one on the way.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by seven siblings, Charles Younce, Ted Younce, Billy Joe Younce, Helen Noble, Beatrice Henderson, Barbara Bryant and Louise Blackstone.

The family has requested to wear colors instead of black to celebrate Mrs. Ruth’s life.

Funeral services will be conduct at 3 p.m. March 25 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:45-2:45 p.m. in the Garden Room at Dillard Funeral Home.

Burial will follow the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with their arrangements.

 

KENNY EDWARD SAMS

PICKENS — Kenny Edward Sams, 76, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Jan. 15, 1950, in Elmira, N.Y., Kenny was the son of the late Robert Roy Sams and Donna Mae Sams.

Kenny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Barbara Sams; his daughter, Melanie Davis (Roger Davis); and his son, Thomas Sams. He was a proud grandfather to Christina, Grady and Kyle Sams, as well as Brandon (Macy), Steven and Sarahgrace Davis. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Della and Gatlin Davis, and nephews, Nathan Sams (Elli) and Adam Wallace.

Kenny is further survived by his siblings, Robin Sams of New York and Robert Sams of Georgia, and a special friend, Dale Watkins.

He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and later retired from AT&T after many years of dedicated service.

A time of receiving friends and family will be held at the family home, located at 540 Garvin St. in Pickens.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. March 27 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

Kenny will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to his country, and the many lives he touched throughout his years.

Family requests in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Marine Corps League of Easley.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Sams family.

 

KEVIN LAWING

EASLEY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kevin Sean Lawing, who left us peacefully on March 20, 2026, just shy of his 65th birthday.

Born on March 23, 1961, in Kannapolis, N.C., he was a son of the late Donald Webster Lawing.

He made his home in Charleston and later Easley, where he embraced life with passion and creativity.

Kevin was known for his warm smile and a spirit that was as bright as his love for interior design. As the owner of Kevin Lawing Interiors, he turned his unique vision into beautiful spaces, helping countless clients find joy in their homes. His keen eye for furniture not only made him an exceptional designer, but also a savvy enthusiast in buying and selling furniture, transforming pieces with his unparalleled touch.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kevin was a man of many interests. He cherished moments spent playing bridge with friends, often leading to laughter and camaraderie. An avid reader, he immersed himself in books that took him on countless adventures, feeding his love for learning and discovery.

Kevin is survived by his loving mother, Dianne Thomas, and his brother, Roman Lawing and his wife, Ramona. Also surviving are four nephews, Eli, Jon, Ian and Evan. Their bonds of family and love were deeply cherished, and they will carry forward his legacy of kindness and creativity.

In this time of remembrance, let us rejoice in the beautiful moments we shared with Kevin, a man who lived fully, loved deeply and left an indelible mark on our hearts.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

JUNE PONDER PHILLIPS

EASLEY — Mary June Ponder Phillips, devoted wife of 73 years to Homer Charles Phillips, went to be with her Lord on March 20, 2026.

June was born in Mars Hill, N.C., to the late Otus Ponder and Mafery Honeycutt Ponder on Nov. 12, 1934.

She graduated from Mars Hill High School, Pack Square Beauty School and later Greenville Technical College. She was employed by Greenville Hospital System, A and P Foods as a secretary, and Palmetto Baptist Hospital as an assistant personnel director. June was a faithful member of Glenwood Baptist Church and the Gleaners Golden Circle Sunday school class.

Charles and June were very active in the South Carolina Disaster Relief, traveling to numerous states to help those in need.

She leaves two children, Steve (Jody) and Kevin (Donna); three grandchildren, Christa Phillips Washington (Maurice), Jason Hunsucker (Jennifer) and Margo Hudgins (Jon); four great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; one great-great-grandson; and her brother-in-law, Larry McLaughlin, along with several loving nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Sharon Gryn, and a sister, Lucile Ponder Sprinkle.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. March 25 at Glenwood Baptist Church, with Robert Fowler officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Wednesday at the church, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Glenwood Baptist Church Building Fund, 325 Saco Lowell Road, Easley, SC 29640.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory-Downtown, Easley.