MELVIN J. ROWLAND

BOILING SPRINGS — Melvin J. Rowland, 78, of Boiling Springs, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025.

Melvin was born on June 28, 1946, in Pickens, to the late Elsie Pauline Cannon and Harry Rowland. He was the youngest son of 13 children. He is survived by his wife, Judy Rowland; his sisters Betty, Irene and Nancy. He was a loving son, brother, uncle, and husband.

Melvin was a graduate of Pickens High School, Southern Wesleyan University, and the Medical University of South Carolina. He had a career as a Medical Technologist in hospitals in Spartanburg and Greenville, as well as in Tryon, N.C. He enjoyed Ham radio (NQ4N) and working in his yard. His favorite food was ice cream.

The funeral to honor Melvin’s life were held on May 1, at Floyd’s Greenlawn Chapel, 2075 East Main St, Spartanburg, SC 29307. Burial followed at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

He was loved and will be greatly missed. Arrangements are entrusted to Floyd’s Greenlawn Chapel.

 

STEPHEN W. SALLY

EASLEY — Stephen W. Sally, affectionately known as Steve passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, at the age of 89 in Easley, from end stage dementia. Born on Oct. 11, 1935, in Watervliet, N.Y., Steve was a man of integrity, strength, and deep love for his family and country.

Steve’s formative years in Watervliet laid the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and service. Following his graduation, he answered the call to serve his nation as a Marine, instilling him with a sense of discipline and honor that would define his life. After his military service, Steve transitioned into the manufacturing industry, where he excelled in various positions. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own business, Manufacturing Equipment Co., in 1980, which he led with vision and dedication until retirement.

Steve was the beloved patriarch of his family, cherished for his unwavering support and love. He was the son of the late Mary and Trieffon Sally and was affectionately known as “Sonny” to his parents and his siblings, Julia, Christine, Alex and John, all of whom predeceased him. Steve’s devotion to family was evident in his loving marriage to his late wife, Shirlee, and his close bond with his sister, Nancy. His legacy continues through his sons, Steve and Ken, his daughter-in-law Janine, and his adored grandsons, Brennan, Kristopher and Nicholas, as well as several nieces and nephews who will miss him deeply.

Beyond his professional achievements and family life, Steve was an avid car enthusiast. He had a particular passion for Thunderbird cars. His interests also extended to his home, where he found solace and joy in yard work, often seen tending to it with the same attention to detail that he applied to every aspect of his life.

Steve’s life was a testament to the power of resilience, humor, and dedication. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by the stories told by those who loved him. As we say goodbye, we celebrate the indelible mark he left on the world and the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the family at this time.

 

RAY ALLEN SWORDS

LIBERTY — Ray Allen Swords, 72, loving husband to Clarice Loftis Swords, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born on Jan. 20, 1953, in Easley, Ray was the son of the late Earnest Elwell Swords and Pearl Kennemore Swords. He was of the Southern Baptist faith and attended Norris First Baptist Church. Ray found joy in life’s simple pleasures—whether it was savoring a good cheeseburger, spending time outdoors, or rooting for his favorite teams, the Clemson Tigers and the Atlanta Braves. More than anything, he treasured his family. His grandchildren were especially dear to him, bringing immeasurable pride and happiness to his life.

Survivors include his wife, Clarice Loftis Swords of the home; children, Allen Swords of Liberty, Robert Swords of Anderson and Daniel Swords (Emily) of Liberty; grandchildren, Caleb and Owen; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Swords was predeceased by a grandchild, Oliver, and was the last surviving member of his many siblings.

Memorial service were held on May 12, at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Swords family.

BRANDON MICHAEL LOLLIS

CENTRAL — Brandon Michael Lollis, 27, loving husband to Kailyn McDonald, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Liberty.

Brandon Lollis, born on Mar. 1, 1998, in Pickens County, was the beloved son of Frank and Brandy Lollis. From an early age, Brandon had a deep connection to the outdoors. Whether he was hunting in the woods or casting a line on the water, he felt most at home surrounded by nature. He also had a strong passion for cars, particularly hot rods, and loved everything about their speed, style, and mechanics.

In addition to his wife and parents, Brandon is survived by his daughters, Zoey Elaine Lollis, Lily Noel Lollis and unborn daughter, Autumn Grace Lollis; brother, Dylan Lollis (Melanie); niece, Savannah; brother, Ryan Lollis (Kellen); sister, Sarah Lollis; his “Nana”, Mary Evatt (Buddy); uncle, Erik Nichols (Brittany) and Ella, Caroline, and Wyatt.

Brandon was predeceased by his grandfathers, “Papa” Don Nichols and “Papa” Preston Lollis.

Graveside service was held on May 8, at Welcome Baptist Church Cemetery, 1432 Maw Bridge Rd, Central.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations in Brandon’s honor may be made to Pickens County Humane Society, 500 5 Forks Rd.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Lollis family.

MIRELLA A. HONEA

LIBERTY — Mirella A. Honea, 67, loving wife of 49 years to William “Bill” Honea, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Monday, May 5, 2025, at her home.

Born on Mar. 4, 1958, in São Paulo, Brazil, Mirella was the beloved daughter of the late Eusebio Atzeni and Maria Ramos DaSilva Chrzanowski. She was a devoted member of ALIVE Wesleyan Church in Central, where her deep and unwavering faith shaped her life. A true child of God, Mirella lived her beliefs with grace and compassion, touching the lives of many through her generosity and kindness.

Family was at the heart of everything she did. She cherished her loved ones and poured her love into every relationship, always placing family above all else. Mirella was a source of inspiration to those around her—her warmth, encouragement, and willingness to help left a lasting mark on her community.

In quieter moments, Mirella found joy in gardening and knitting, nurturing both the earth and the people in her life with equal care. Her legacy is one of faith, love, and selfless service—a life beautifully lived and deeply treasured.

Survivors include her husband, Bill Honea of the home; children, Jeremy Honea (Alison) of Anderson, Rachelle Turner of Liberty and Mark Turner; grandchildren, Micah Turner, Addison Turner, William D. Honea and Isabella Honea; brother, Jevon Chrzanowski; sister-in-law, Lynn Atzeni; nephews, Corey Wright, Kyle Chrzanowski and Jonathan Chrzanowski; nieces, Samantha and Jamie; aunt, Tia Vera; and cousins, Soraya, Sonya, Lebib and Nabil.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Honea was predeceased by her brother, Giovanni Atzeni.

The family will held a Celebration of Life service on May 12, in the sanctuary of ALIVE Wesleyan Church in Central.

Flowers are welcome, or those who wish to honor Mirella’s memory may do so with a donation to ALIVE Wesleyan Church, 136 Chastain Road, Central.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Honea family.

 

KEVIN JAN ‘BIRDLEGS’ TEUTSCH

EASLEY — Kevin Jan “Birdlegs” Teutsch, 61, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Oct. 8, 1963, in Savannah, Ga., Kevin was the beloved son of Janice Kay Gilstrap Conner and the late William Teutsch. Known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor, Kevin was a natural jokester who brought laughter wherever he went. He was deeply loved by all who knew him and was fortunate to be surrounded by a wide circle of cherished friends. Kevin had a special place in his heart for children and a deep love for the outdoors.

He found joy in hunting and fishing—especially for bass and trout, and now and then, a flounder. A loyal and devoted friend, Kevin also adored his dogs, Lucy and Bailey, who were constant companions. He enjoyed a good round of golf and was an avid fan of the Clemson Tigers, never missing a game when he could help it.

In addition to his mother, Kevin is survived by his father, Robert E. “Bob” Conner; longtime companion and partner, Betty Jean Hendrix of Easley; her grandchildren, Kayden, Sawyer and Finnleigh; brother, William Lee Teutsch of Greenville; niece, Holland; nephew, Cody; and many loving aunts and uncles.

Mr. Teutsch was predeceased by his father, William Teutsch, and brother, Robert Chance Conner.

Visitation will be held on May 15, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Kevin’s honor may be made to the American Cancer Society by visiting their website at donate.cancer.org/.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Teutsch family.

 

BILLIE GREEN

PICKENS — Billie Green, 81, of Easley, passed away on May 7, 2025.

She was born on Dec. 12, 1943 to William and Ann Bryan Masters. She attended Guthrie Grove Church in Pelzer for many years. Billie enjoyed sunflowers, blue bonnets, hummingbirds, and cooking. She loved the outdoors and talking to everyone she met. Billie was a kind woman who would do anything she could for anyone she met. She loved everything to do with Texas, the mountains, and most of all, her family.

Billie is survived by her sons, Jon Simpson (Janet) and Edward Gregg Chapman; her step-grandchildren, Dylan Brasher, Mason Brasher (Sonia) and Abigail Sharp; her step-great-granddaughter, Marceline Brasher; her sister, Cathey Masters Routh; and many close friends.

She is predeceased by her parents; her daughter, Catherian Chapman Abbott; her brother-in-law, Jack Routh; and a special companion, Thomas Russell Crenshaw.

Visitation will be held on May 17 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. at Robinson Funeral Home – Downtown, Easley.

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

 

SYDNEY ANN SANDERS

LIBERTY — Sydney Ann Sanders, 29, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

Born on Oct. 13, 1995, in Greenville, Sydney was the beloved daughter of Christie Sanders Reeves and Tony Joe Patterson. Known for her generous spirit and selfless heart, Sydney was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Sydney had a love for shooting and took pride in her skill and confidence with guns. She had a deep passion for drag racing and Ford Mustangs, and she found joy in going fast and getting her hands dirty working on cars. More than anything, Sydney loved her son, as well as her nieces and nephews, who brought her endless pride and happiness. Her compassion extended to all animals, especially dogs, who held a special place in her heart.

Sydney faced life’s challenges with incredible strength and courage. Though she fought bravely, the struggles of addiction and mental illness ultimately took her from us far too soon.

Survivors include her son, Jaxon Bond (Grant) of Easley; mother, Christie Sanders Reeves (Chad) of Liberty; father, Tony Joe Patterson (Missi) of Liberty; stepsisters, Breanna (Kevin), Alyssa and Abigail; stepbrother, Elijah; grandparents, Randall and Sylvia Sanders and Joe Patterson and Judy Patterson; nieces, Bristol and Piper; nephews, Lukas, Brooks and Lukas; aunt, Sonya Autrey (Bryan-Bryan); and cousin Brady Autrey, and his wife Kenzie, who were like a brother and sister to Sydney.

Sydney was predeceased by her grandmother, Debbie Patterson; aunt, Renee Sanders; and uncle, Kenneth Barnett.

Memorial service were held on May 13,at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral.

Flowers are welcome, or those who wish to honor Sydney’s memory may do so with a donation to A Joshua’s Journey Home Rescue, c/o Jennifer Hill by visiting www.facebook.com/share/16ajvBaLKG/?mibextid=wwXIfr.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Sanders family.