DORIS STEPHENS WILSON

EASLEY — Mrs. Doris Elaine Stephens Wilson, 80, wife of the late Jimmy Ellis “Bones” Wilson Sr., went to be with her Lord and Savior, Thursday, Dec., 25, 2025.

Born in Liberty, a daughter of the late Herman Elliott Stephens and the late Geneva James Stephens, Mrs. Wilson was a graduate of Liberty High School and Waldrop’s Beauty Academy on Augusta. She was a member of Brushy Creek Baptist Church for more than 50 years, where she faithfully served in the preschool department and other areas. Doris was a cosmetologist for many years and later retired from East End Elementary School with 25 years of service.

Doris was a simple and Godly lady who loved to serve, teaching others and children about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She always recognized the good in everyone, never judging, but lifting up others. She was a prayer warrior every day of her life, praising God for his blessings and praying for those in need.

She loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren. Her home was always open, not only to family, but to everyone. You were always greeted with a smile and love as you entered the door. Doris loved cooking and baking. Christmas was her favorite time of year, baking cookies and taking them to everyone she knew. She will not only be missed by her family, but by all who loved and knew her.

Surviving are her son, Jimmy E. Wilson Jr. (Sarah) of Easley; her grandchildren, Jimmy E. “Trey” Wilson III (Erin), David Noel Wilson and Bridget Casidy Lowdermilk, all of Easley; her great-grandchildren, Kylen Wilson, Levi Wilson, Adaira Lowdermilk, Graham Lowdermilk and Noelyn Lowdermilk; her sister-in-law, Patsy Wilson of Easley; her brother-in-law, Jerry C. “Jake” Gray of Easley; and her special niece and nephews, Jerry C. Gray (Barbara) of Easley, Jeff Gray (JeriLynn) of Liberty, Tracie Gerisch (Eric) of Powdersville and Rev. Dr. Tim Wilson (Becky) of Fayetteville, N.C.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Wilson was predeceased by her sister, Gloria Carol Stephens; her brother-in-law, Stanley “Beetle” Wilson; and her sister-in-law, Donna H. Gray.

Funeral services were held Dec. 29 at Brushy Creek Baptist Church, with Rev. Dr. Tim Wilson officiating. Burial followed at Robinson Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the family of Brushy Creek Baptist Church and the many friends of Easley, for the visits, calls and love that they have provided for Doris.

 

WANDA JUANITA DAVIS BURGESS

EASLEY — A Fruitful Life Remembered and Celebrated.

It is with deep sadness, knowing she will not be with us here but with the comforting joy of knowing we will be together in Heaven, that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Wanda Juanita Davis Burgess, who departed this life for an eternity with our Lord on Dec. 23, 2025, at the age of 87. She was born on March 24, 1938, in the rural Sunset community of Pickens.

Mom touched the lives of many with her genuine kindness and warmth. She was the wife for 65 years of the late Rev. Jack L Burgess, his confidant and helper working alongside him in ministry as she influenced and enriched the lives of countless church members and Sunday school students. Mom enjoyed talking about her faith and sharing stories of Jesus with everyone she met. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience.

Though she was a homemaker most of her life, she was also a former staff member of Roloff Evangelistic Enterprises in Corpus Christi Texas and Bob Jones University Press in Greenville South Carolina. She was a tireless testimony of God’s goodness. In nearly every conversation with Mom she would talk about praying for all her family and ask, “Have you trusted Jesus.” Throughout her life Juanita Burgess expressed unwavering compassion, a subtle sense of humor, and dedication to God and helping others.

Juanita Burgess was the daughter of the late Henry Holbert Davis and Katomah Crenshaw Davis of Pickens. She was “Mom” to four sons, “Grandma” to 15 grandchildren, and “Great-Grandma” to 17 great grandchildren. Son Jack Keith Burgess (Linda); Granddaughter Carissa Parnell (Jamin); great grandchildren Maisie, Madelyn “Maddie” and Silas. Son James A. “Tony” Burgess (Susan); Granddaughter Heather McCarty (Evan); great granddaughters Amelia, Cora. Grandson Deron James Burgess (Bethany); great granddaughter Audrey. Grandson Philip David Burgess. Granddaughter Tara Chandler Jeroszko (Robert); great grandchildren Susannah, Benjamin, Margaret, Caroline. Grandson Michael Tyler Frank (Anna); great grandson Leon. Granddaughter Mary Elizabeth Burgess. Son Garland Mark Burgess-deceased (Krystal); Granddaughter Stephanie Kozick (Ben); great grandsons Hunter, Grant. Granddaughter Amanda Reed (Kyle); great grandchildren Madeline “Maddie”, Noah, Levi, Jonah. Granddaughter Rene Burgess; great grandchildren Connor, Lucas, Georgia.Grandson Christopher Burgess. Son Matthew Steven Burgess (Mitzi); grandchildren Charlotte, Abigail, Natalie, Jackson.

Wanda Juanita Davis Burgess is preceded in death by siblings, Wilma Avanelle Crane, Velma Roselle Anderson, Truman Wilson Davis, Norman Garfield Davis, Doyle Holbert Davis, Donald Garvin Davis and is survived by siblings Sevilla Inez Duncan, Shirley Yvonne Edens(Dwight) Henry Hoyle Davis, Douglas Gerald Davis(Brenda).

A service to celebrate Juanita Burgess’ life, as she was known, was held on Dec. 27, at Mountain View Funeral and Cremations, 105 Florence St., Pickens, officiated by her nephew, Rev. Scott Willis. A brief burial service followed at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, located at 620 Pleasant Grove Road Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted, and memorials may be made in memory of Doris to Brushy Creek Baptist Church, 100 Clay St., Easley, SC 29642.

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

 

TONY JACK PHILLIPS

MARIETTA — Tony Jack Phillips, 83, loving husband to the late Shirley F. Phillips, passed away on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at his home.

Born on Sept. 17, 1942, in Greenville County, Jack was the beloved son of the late Hobart Phillips and Sular Estelle Carpenter Phillips. A wonderful family man, Jack was a devoted and loving husband who took great pride in caring for those he loved. He found joy tending his garden and was known for his great sense of humor, which brought smiles to everyone around him. Jack had a welcoming spirit and a generous heart, always making others feel at home and never letting a visitor leave without offering food and fellowship.

Jack is survived by his three sons, Alan Phillips (Libby), Raymond Phillips and T.J. Phillips, all of Marietta; grandchildren, Jennifer E. (Dustin), Jason, Jennifer M. (Christopher), Chelsea (Dalton) and Taylor; 13 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and siblings, Elizabeth Lindsey and Dale Phillips (Dorothy).

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Phillips was predeceased by a great-grandchild; a great-great-grandchild; sisters, Athlene Coggins, Dorthy Bridwell and Baby Linda; and brothers, Olin Phillips, Hobart Phillips Jr., Steve Phillips and Leonard Phillips.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m.-noon Jan. 5, 2026, in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens with a memorial service to follow at noon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jack’s honor can be made to the charity of your choice.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Phillips family.

 

DEBRA ROSS NINESTEIN

EASLEY — It is with both sadness and celebration that we announce the passing of Debra Charlene Ninestein, affectionately known as “Little Debbie” by her former workmates, left us peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, at the age of 67.

Born on Aug. 6, 1958, in Pickens, she was a daughter of the late Garvin James and Mattie Jo Green Ross. Debra embodied warmth and kindness, weaving her way into the hearts of everyone she encountered.

Debra dedicated more than 20 years of her life to the textile industry, starting as a bright-eyed teenager at Mayfair Mills and later retiring from Shaw Industries. It was during her time at Shaw that she gained her beloved nickname, a testament to her cheerful spirit and the affection she cultivated with her coworkers.

Family was everything to Debra. Her daughter, Charlene Wilson (Kenny), and brother, Kenneth Ross, were among her biggest sources of pride, but nothing brought her more joy than her beloved grandchildren, Madison McConnell (Reece) and Alyssa Wilson — her life revolved around them, and she was affectionately known as “everyone’s grandmother.” Debra had a special way of making each person feel welcome, never meeting a stranger and always ready to share a smile.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Roger Ross, and a sister, Phyllis Cox.

A memorial service in honor of Debra was held on Dec. 26 at the Liberty Mortuary chapel.

Let us come together to honor and celebrate the life of an extraordinary woman who taught us all the meaning of love, laughter and community.

You may offer condolences to the family and share memories by visiting libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services are handling arrangements.

 

JOYCE NAOMI ELLENBURG OWENS

EASLEY — Joyce Naomi Ellenburg Owens, 89, wife of the late Ralph Owens, of Easley, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025.

Born in Pickens, she was the daughter of the late Sam and Flora Gilstrap Ellenburg.

Joyce retired after 20 years of service from Garretts Department Store and later from Robinson Department Store, and was an active member of Washington Avenue Baptist Church for approximately 70 years. She was deeply devoted to her family and found great joy in caring for and generously spoiling them.

Joyce is survived by a son, Mike Owens (Terri) of Pickens; a daughter, Cindy Sobin (Bill) of Liberty; four grandchildren, David Owens Jr. (Meredith), Rebecca Roth (Ryan), Jessica Black (Jeffrey) and Dylan Sobin (Chloe Wachtel); seven great-grandchildren, McKenzie, Emma, Haleigh, Tommy, Murphy, Hunter, Margaret; and a special niece, Carolyn Brown.

In addition to her loving husband, she was preceded in death by a son, David Barry Owens Sr.; her brothers, Alcie Ellenburg, Leland Ellenburg, Ralph Ellenburg, Dewey Ellenburg, Louie Ellenburg, Herbert Ellenburg and Sam Ellenburg; and her sisters, Ressie Wood, Myrtle Corey and Wilma Conner.

Funeral services were held on Dec. 30 at Washington Avenue Baptist Church. Burial followed at Graceland Cemetery, West.

Flowers will be accepted and memorials may be made in memory of Joyce to Washington Avenue Baptist Church, 200 N. Washington Ave., Greenville, SC 29611.

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

 

KIMBERLY ‘KIM’ VARNER

PICKENS — Kimberly “Kim” Varner, 66, of Pickens, the wife to the late James Varner, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Kim was born in Pickens County on Nov. 10, 1959, to the late Roberta Permenter. She deeply loved her family and was a devoted member of East Pickens Baptist Church.

She is survived by her son, Kris Varner of Pickens; her siblings, Bill Cody (Wanda), Lorraine Thompson, Ken Hall (Karla) and Kyle Porter (Crystal); along with many loving family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

In addition to her mother, Roberta Permenter, Kim was preceded in death by her husband, James Varner.

A memorial service was held on Dec. 30 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Varner family.

 

EDNA WHITAKER

SIX MILE — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edna Stephens Whitaker, 94, who left us peacefully on Dec. 27, 2025.  Mrs. Whitaker was born on Sept. 18, 1931, in the quaint town of Six Mile, and was the widow of William C. “Bill” Whitaker.

Edna was a devoted homemaker, wholeheartedly committed to her family and creating a warm, loving environment for them. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, cherishing every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.

A member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Edna’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a person of deep kindness and compassion, often offering support and encouragement to those around her. Her laughter and warmth will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Those left to cherish her memory are a daughter, Gail Hughes (Steve) of Liberty; a son, Carl Whitaker (Sharon) of Six Mile; three grandchildren, Kamie Duncan (Scott) of Easley, Kyle Whitaker of Charlotte, N.C. and Karla Hughes of Liberty; also surviving are two great grandchildren, Kylie and Cole Duncan.

She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Funeral services to celebrate and honor her life will be held 2 p.m. Dec. 31, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel.  The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30 until 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary.  She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Six Mile Church of God of Prophecy Cemetery.

For those unable to attend the service, the livestream will be available on her obituary page as well as a place to leave a condolence or share a memory by visiting libertymortuary.com

Edna Stephens Whitaker will forever be remembered for her love, grace, and the beautiful legacy she has left for her family and community.

Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

MIKE CARTEE

PICKENS — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Barry Michael “Mike” Cartee, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and dedicated public servant, who entered into eternal rest on Dec. 27, 2025, at the age of 74.

Born on June 9, 1951, in Anderson, he was a son of the late Clifton Cartee, Sr. and Vivian Wardlaw Cartee.

Mike spent his life dedicated to serving others, embodying the values of compassion, integrity, and strength.

He graduated with an associate’s degree in public service with a minor in Criminal Justice from Tri-County Technical College. His commitment to public safety was evident throughout his distinguished 26 year career with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, where he retired as a First Sergeant after serving the communities of Pickens and Saluda Counties.

He continued his service as a Special Deputy with the United States Marshal’s Service, ultimately serving as District Supervisor for South Carolina for 16 years.

A proud veteran, he also served for 7 years in the U.S. Army Reserves, demonstrating his dedication to protecting and supporting his fellow citizens. He was deeply involved in his community, not only as a Deacon at Norris First Baptist Church but also as a dedicated member of Liberty Masonic Lodge #235 AFM for an impressive 38 years, where he once held the esteemed position of Master of the Lodge.

He cherished the simple pleasures of life. He had a passion for classic cars, often spending weekends at car shows, proudly showcasing his collection. He found joy in traveling to Florida and Pigeon Forge, where he created countless wonderful memories with family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Dill Cartee; a daughter, Mary Ann Edens (Michael); grandchildren, Faris Williams (Mike) and Logan Edens; and great-grandchild, Wade Williams. His loving spirit, warm smile, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Lisa Cartee Lollis, a son, Ken Cartee, and three brothers, Clifton Cartee, Jr., Billy Cartee and Jimmy Cartee.

A celebration of Mike’s remarkable life will be held at 2 p.m., Jan. 4, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel.  Any current or retired law enforcement officers and masons are invited to serve as honorary pallbearers.  Honors will be provided by the South Carolina Highway Patrol Honors Team, and Liberty Masonic Lodge.

The family will receive friends Jan. 3, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the mortuary.  He will be laid to rest at a later date at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers memorials are requested to Liberty Masonic Lodge, 523 N. Palmetto Street, Liberty SC 29657.

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

 

JUDY FRAZIER

SIX MILE — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judy Revis Frazier, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, who left this world peacefully on Dec. 24, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born in Charleston, on Sept. 12, 1940, she was the only daughter of Larel and Edna Kelley Revis. Judy lived a life filled with love, creativity and a passion for bringing beauty into the world through her work as a florist.

She was the proud owner and founder of Frazier’s Floral Design, where her artistic flair blossomed and touched the lives of many in the Pickens County community. She retired in 2010, having shared her passion for flowers and decoration with countless customers who became friends. Judy had a unique talent for making every occasion feel special and memorable, and her love for flowers extended beyond work-she found joy in decorating her home and creating beautiful spaces for her family and friends.

A devoted member of Mile Creek Baptist Church, Judy’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She embraced her church community with open arms and a warm heart, embodying the spirit of kindness and generosity.

Family was everything to Judy, and she cherished every moment spent with her beloved husband, J. Kelly Frazier; her son, John Frazier (Cheryl); her daughter, Kelli Leigh Moore; and her loving grandchildren, Mitchell Frazier (Kaili), Austin Moore (Lauren), April Birchfield (Randall) and Colt Braswell. Also surviving are five great-grandchildren, John Luke, Lyla, Mila, William and Alex.

Whether it was gathering around the dinner table or sharing stories over her cherished collection of tea pots, her home was a sanctuary of love and laughter.

A celebration of Judy’s life and funeral service were held Dec. 30 at Mile Creek Baptist Church. She was laid to rest in the church cemetery.

As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, let us remember her warmth, her laughter and her unwavering love for family and flowers. Judy will be deeply missed, but her light will forever shine in our hearts.

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

 

RICHARD ‘DICKIE’ EUGENE SPEARMAN

EASLEY — Richard Eugene Spearman, 75, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, at MUSC Chester.

Born on Dec. 23, 1949, in Pickens County, Richard was the beloved son of the late Eugene Mauldin Spearman and Ruth Spearman. He grew up in Easley, in and around the Alice Mill Village, where he formed many lasting memories and friendships.

Richard enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and was a devoted college football fan, proudly cheering on his favorite team, the Clemson Tigers. He appreciated simple pleasures and valued time spent with family.

He is survived by his children, Richard L. Spearman of Hyde Park, N.Y., and Amy R. Cagle of Greenwood; his grandchildren, Gavin Spearman, Ashton Brooks, Dawson Cagle and Conner Spearman; and his great-grandchildren, Adelyne Brooks and Aubrey Brooks. He is also survived by his sister, Eugenia Hunter, and his brother, Craig Spearman.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his sisters, Jacquelyn Morgan and Barbara Haynes.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Spearman family.

 

LYNN GERLACH

LIBERTY — Cathy Lynn Crowe Gerlach’s faith became sight on Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025 surrounded by her family.

Born on Dec. 27, 1956, she was the daughter of the late William Lloyd Crowe, Loretta Golden Crowe Hunter and John Curtis Hunter Jr.

Lynn graduated from Easley High School and worked in manufacturing at West Point Stevens and Reliable Sprinkler systems, retiring in 2024.

A devoted and caring wife to the late Larry Arthur Gerlach, Lynn cherished the time spent with her daughters and grandchildren. In true nanny fashion, she loved to spoil her grandbabies through playing together and her infamous shopping trips — buying whatever they wanted. Eager to travel and see the world, she loved cruising, camping and beach trips. We are immensely proud to call her our mama and nanny, and her absence will be felt tremendously.

A member of Mt Sinai Baptist Church, she enjoyed listening to Preacher Rudy’s sermons and learning the gospel hymns through reading and writing them down. Through her and our dad’s decision to follow the Lord, we have been afforded a goodly heritage!

Lynn was the precious mother to Catherine Gerlach Kelley of Liberty and Jennifer Lynn Collins (Bradley) of Asheville, N.C., and loving nanny to John-Arthur T. Kelley, Halyn Promise and Huck Taylor Collins. She is survived by numerous cousins and loved ones.

How our hearts ache at the tremendous loss of a strong, loving mama and nanny. We can rejoice that she is home in Heaven with her Savior, husband, mom and dad, grandbabies, aunts and uncles and family gone before.

To celebrate her life, friends and family were invited to a graveside service that was held Dec. 29 at Memory Gardens in Clemson.

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

 

JANICE ROBERSON

LIBERTY — With a loving heart and a spirit that could light up any room, Janice Smith Roberson, born on Feb. 10, 1945, in Woodruff, transitioned peacefully on Dec. 3, 2025, at the age of 80.

She was a daughter of the late Marvin Eugene and Mary Madora Wofford Smith and the widow of the late Clyde Neil Roberson. Janice was not just a homemaker; she was a beacon of warmth and joy to all who knew her.

As the youngest of 10 children, Janice embodied the strength and resilience of her family, being the last surviving member of her immediate lineage.

She leaves behind a legacy of love that includes her cherished daughters-in-law, Dana Roberson and Regina Roberson, and her beloved grandchildren, Emma and Courtney Roberson. She also held a special place in her heart for her numerous nieces and nephews, who will always remember her vibrant spirit and loving nature.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by two sons, Chris and Kevin Roberson.

Janice faced life’s challenges with grace, including her struggles with health, but she never let that diminish her joy for life and the love she poured into her family and friends.

Funeral services to celebrate the life of Mrs. Roberson were held on Dec. 30 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. Burial followed at Greenlawn Memorial Park, where she was laid to rest with her late husband.

You may share memories and offer condolences to the family by visiting libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

GEORGE THOMAS ‘TOMMY’ WEBSTER JR.

PICKENS — Tommy Webster, 56, loving husband of 33 years to Angie Webster, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at his home.

Born on Aug. 11, 1969, in Pickens, Tommy was the beloved son of the late George Thomas Webster Sr. and Joan “Carolyn” Cannon Turner. A proud graduate of Pickens High School, Class of 1988, Tommy dedicated 27 years of faithful service to Pickens County, where he served as director of operations. He was widely respected for his leadership, strong work ethic and willingness to help wherever he was needed.

Tommy loved spending time with his friends and family. His quick wit and fun-loving nature brought joy to others even in difficult moments. He was known for his remarkable ability to build or fix things, always willing to help others with a generous heart. Time outdoors, whether at the lake, hiking or camping, was one of his greatest joys. However, some of his happiest moments were spent traveling and making memories with his wife Angie. He cherished her as his soulmate and treasured his beloved daughter, Allie, as his best friend.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Angie Webster of the home; daughter, Allie Webster; sister, Amy Smith (Travis); nieces, Jade Corley (Patton), Alex Alexander (Colby) and Lexi Smith; great-niece, Layken Alexander; and great-nephew, Lane Alexander.

Tommy is also survived by his in-laws, who he considered true family; father-in-law, Rick Reeves; mother-in-law, Marsha Reeves; brother-in-law, Dustin Reeves (Heather); and niece, Emma Reeves.

In addition to his parents, Tommy was predeceased by his grandparents, Gene and Ethel Cannon, as well as many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

An informal visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Jan. 2, 2026, in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Tommy’s honor can be made to Team Gleason Foundation, P.O. Box 24493, New Orleans, LA 70184 or to Touched by ALS, 1140 Woodruff Road, STE 106-247, Greenville, SC 29607.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Webster family.

 

SCOTTY ALTON GARREN

PELZER — Scotty Alton Garren, 60, loving husband of two years to Evangeline Garren, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, at his home.

Born on Jan. 19, 1965, in Pickens, Scotty was the beloved son of the late Ralph Alton Garren and Winona Ann Roberts Garren.

Known for his always-jolly spirit, Scotty brought laughter and light wherever he went. He had a true passion for cooking and took great joy in sharing meals with others, especially his favorite Filipino dishes. Scotty loved traveling alongside his wife, creating cherished memories together along the way. A faithful Christian and a devoted husband, he lived his life guided by love, faith and gratitude, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Scotty is survived by his wife, Evangeline Garren of the home; siblings, Dennis K. Reese, Kimberly Grant (Joey) and Kevin Garren (Jennifer); aunts, Bonnie Parnell of Pickens, Ida Price of Pickens and Betty Brock of Columbia; uncle, Ronnie Garren of Walhalla; and nephews, Harley Grant, Jesse Grant and Christopher Garren.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Garren family.

 

DON CASSELL

LIBERtY — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donald Ray Cassell, USA Retired, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who left us on Dec. 2, 2025, at the age of 72.

Born on April 8, 1953, in Pickens, Don’s journey through life was marked by dedication, service and an unwavering love for his family.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, he enlisted on Dec. 18, 1972, and served honorably until his discharge on Jan. 31, 1993. He bravely supported our nation during the Desert Storm conflict, embodying the values of bravery and commitment. Following his military service, he devoted many years to helping his fellow veterans find meaningful employment with the state of South Carolina, showing his deep respect for those who served alongside him.

Don cherished time spent with his loved ones, especially his wife, Bonnie, his son, Julian, and his beloved granddaughter, Lauren. His warmth, laughter and wise counsel left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

He was a son of the late James Troy and Christine Blackston Cassell. He was the last survivor of his immediate family and was also preceded in death by two sisters, Joyce Alexander and Doris Bowman, and a brother, James Edward Cassell.

Private services were held in the Liberty Mortuary chapel, and he was laid to rest with full military honors at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery.

Donald Ray Cassell will be greatly missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all of us. In our shared moments together, he reminded us of the importance of family, service and love. May he rest in peace.

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