JOHN WILLIAM ‘BILL’ PACE

CLEMSON — John William “Bill” Pace, 89, of Clemson, husband to the late Martha Lois Gravley Pace, passed away June 12, 2026.

Born in Sumter County, he was the son of the late William Ernest Pace and Mannie Brown Pace. Following graduation from Ashwood-Central High School and a year at Clemson University, Bill entered the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country from 1956-1960. After his military service, Bill married and returned to Clemson University to complete his bachelor’s degree in arts and sciences, then later obtained a Master of Education degree from the University of South Carolina in 1973. He retired from Clemson University as the director of Parking and Vehicle Services in 1992.

Mr. Pace was a longtime member of Pendleton Methodist Church, where he was a beloved member of the choir. He enjoyed running, attending and supporting all his children and grandchildren’s endeavors, and all Clemson sports/events. Above all, Bill was a dedicated and loving servant. He devoted his time to his family, friends and church. Bill loved to give back, and in his honor, his pacemaker will be donated to the University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital to help animals in need.

Bill is survived by his daughters, Felecia Pace (friend, Jim Tolleson) of Liberty and Kimberly Pace Wacha (James) of Lincoln, Neb.; grandchildren, Joy Dunlap Ellison (Kent), Cal William Dunlap (Cassie), Alex James Wacha, Cody Jacob Wacha (Karlie) and Heaven Leigh Wacha Jackson (Sami); great-grandchildren, Everett Ellison, Emmett Ellison, Ripken Dunlap, Bridges Dunlap, Royston Dunlap, Julian Wacha, Abel Wacha, Elijah Wacha, Belle Wacha and Simon Wacha; and sister, Sarah Pace Shirley.

A funeral service was held on June 16 at Pendleton Methodist Church in Pendleton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Pendleton Methodist Church Choir, P.O. Box 646, Pendleton, SC 29670.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at “The Bridge” (Foothills Presbyterian Memory Care unit in Easley) and the hospice team from Interim Healthcare for the support and compassionate care given to Bill.

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

 

CURTIS LYLE AUSTIN

EASLEY — Curtis Lyle Austin, 70, went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 13, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends.

Curt was born in Terceira Island, Portugal, on May 7, 1956 to the late Donald “Don” and Betty Lee Barrett Austin. Curt loved serving at Rock Springs Baptist Church in numerous roles, as a choir member,  a fifth grade bible fellowship teacher for many years, and being the jokester in the Living Faith Bible Fellowship Class. He served the Dacusville community for a lot of years coaching sports and serving on the board at the recreation department. Curt was an avid outdoorsman, he loved to be boating, fishing, and hunting as much as he could, and cooking for his friends and family. What Curt cherished the most, was the time he had with his family and raising them up to follow Jesus.

Curt is survived by his wife of 35 years, Yolanda Austin; his children, Jordan Bowles (Jacob) and Summer Austin; six grandchildren, Machen Harris, Ada and Lyla Austin, Avery Martin, Talan Bowles and Blake Bowles; one brother, Donnie Austin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Curt was preceded in death by his son PFC Barrett Lyle Austin, KIA, Afghanistan.

A Funeral Service will take place on June 17, at 1 p.m. at Rock Springs Baptist Church.

A Committal Service will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2410 Gentry Memorial Hwy, Pickens.

Any memorials can be made to Rock Springs Baptist Church, Music Ministry in honor of Curt Austin.

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

 

OLLIE LEONA RICE

PICKENS — Ollie Leona Rice, 99, of Pickens, passed on June 13, 2026.

Born in Murphy, N.C. on March 6, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Zeb and Emma Rose Gibson.

Ollie is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Todd (Charles); daughter, Gloria Collins; grandchildren, Charlene Huff, Allen Gilstrap, Samuel Gilstrap (Lesly), Melissa Stewart (Kenneth), Rodney Tally (Mary); great-grandchildren, Camille Huff, Mazey Stewart, Nora Gilstrap, Andy Gilstrap, Raven Tally; and sister, Ann Hayes (Furman “Gabby”).

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband James Rice; daughter, Rosalee Sentell; two great-grandsons, Caleb Gilstrap and Aaron Gilstrap.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2410 Gentry Memorial Hwy, Pickens, South Carolina.

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

 

CHARLES ARNOLD ROBERTS JR.

EASLEY — Charles Arnold Roberts Jr., 83 years young, of Easley passed away at 6:15 p.m. June 6, 2026, peacefully in his sleep.

Charles was predeceased by the love of his life, Barbara. He is survived by his three children, Stephen (Robin) Roberts, Matthew (Naomi) Roberts and Kristin Roberts; his grandchildren, Caitlin Roberts (Jonathan), Lauren Roberts, Kaylie Dake and Brady Johnson; and his brother, Ralph (Ann) Roberts.

Charles loved his Lord and Savior, his family and his close friends. He was married to the love of his life and best friend for 57 years until she went to be with the Lord. Charles was the very definition of a family leader, he led his wife well and was always a consistently loving father to his children. He had a successful career, but if you were to ask him about success, he would point to the loving family that surrounds him. To say he will be missed will be an understatement, but rest assured his legacy will live on and be honored for generations to come.

The family had a memorial service to honor Charles on June 13 at Easley Presbyterian Church in Easley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated and may be made to Pickens County Meals on Wheels or Easley Presbyterian Church.

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

 

WILLIAM ROBERT ‘WIMP’ STEWART

SUNSET — William Robert “Wimp” Stewart, better known as Pops, 87, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Cottingham Hospice House.

Born on June 28, 1938, on Cane Creek, in Sunset, Wimp was the beloved son of the late Avery A. Stewart and Dora Holcombe Stewart.

Wimp worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator. He helped to build Jocassee dam, clear Lake Keowee and build Highway 11, along with many other roads, bridges and dams throughout the state. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing and hunting. A man of strong faith, he was a faithful member of Antioch Baptist Church, but attended New Hope Baptist Church. He loved his family dearly and treasured the time he spent with them.

Wimp is survived by his children, Robin Floyd of Sunset, Brian Stewart (Lisa) of Sunset, Jill Stewart Newman of Sunset, Beth Stewart of Six Mile and Anna Ayers (Brian) of Cope; grandchildren, Brandon Newman (Brooke) of Sunset, Blythe Seeton of Pickens, Portia Smith (Nick) of Sunset, Brett Floyd (Makayla) of Pickens, Taylor Page (Daniel) of Dacusville and B.J. Ayers of Cope; and great-grandchildren, Rhett, Mattie Rae, Emma, Hayes, Landry and Gentry.

In addition to his parents, Wimp was preceded in death by his sisters, Virginia “Bea” Powell and Mary Sue Lesley; and his brother, Charles “Bub” Stewart.

A funeral service was held on June 15 at Antioch Baptist Church. Burial followed the service at McKinney Chapel Cemetery in Sunset.

The family would like to express special thanks to Cottingham Hospice House for caring so well for Mr. Stewart. The entire staff was very attentive, compassionate and kind. Special thanks to Nick Smith and Dr. Jami Meyers for easing the transition to hospice care.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Stewart family.

 

ANNIE EVANS

EASLEY — Mrs. Annie Belle Abercrombie Evans, 95, wife of the late Bobby Eugene Evans, went to be with her Lord and Savior Monday, June 8, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, a daughter of the late John Mark Abercrombie and the late Sletty Masters Abercrombie, Mrs. Evans retired from Alice Manufacturing Company’s Ellison Plant with more than 25 years of service and was a member of Cedar Rock Baptist Church.

Annie loved sewing and making clothes for her family. Her passion was baking, especially making her well-known chocolate and pecan cakes. Traveling and riding through the mountains was one her favorite moments in life. She will be dearly missed by all that loved and knew her.

Surviving are her daughter, Alice Tucker (Dwayne) of Easley; her granddaughter, Tiffany Cole (Aaron Aikns); and her great-granddaughter, Callye Cole (Nick Garner).

Private graveside services will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

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

 

JANET POOLE

EASLEY — Janet Carolyn Poole, 85, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026.

She was born April 12, 1941, in Clinton, to Floyd Holmes and Pauline Boyce Poole. She graduated from Clinton High School in 1958, and from Anderson College in 1960. Janet then attended Baptist Hospital School of Nursing, becoming an RN, and began a long and dedicated career in the field. Janet was animated by a concern for women’s health and the welfare of those in need. She worked in the Laurens County Home Health program for a number of years, visiting patients in largely rural areas who could not travel for treatment. In 1982, she returned to school and attended Emory University’s Graduate Nursing Program, attaining a degree as a Nurse Practitioner-Obstetrics and Gynecology. Janet practiced as a nurse practitioner for many years in the Charleston area and along the Grand Strand.

Following her graduation from Baptist Nursing, Janet married Lew West and moved to Spartanburg.

It was here that their three sons were born, Scott and twins David and Brian. Shortly after the twins were born, Janet moved back to Clinton, where she and Lew owned Young’s Pharmacy for a number of years. The family moved in 1984 to the Isle of Palms, one of Janet’s most favorite places. She then enjoyed living in Murrells Inlet for several years before retiring and relocating to Easley to be close to her grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Janet was a caretaker of people and stray animals. She formed numerous friendships that lasted for many decades. Her extended family, largely dispersed from Laurens County, maintained a closeness which has now become uncommon, with reunions persisting into recent years.

She was predeceased by her parents, Floyd and Pauline Poole; a sister, Kay Poole Stock; and a niece, Adrianne Ingram.

She is survived by her sons, Scott Lewis West of Columbia, David West (David Hasty) of Atlanta and Brian West (Kim) of Easley; and grandchildren, Keightley, Josephine and Barrett West; sister, Beverly Poole Ingram (Tommy); and many beloved friends and family, including Peggy Furr, Todd Ingram and Jodie Collier.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. June 20 at Robinson’s Funeral Home Downtown Chapel, Easley. Following the service, the family will host a reception with refreshments for all who would like to attend at the South and West Event Venue across the street from Robinson’s Downtown Chapel, at 109 S. 1st St. in Easley.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Upstate South Carolina Chapter of the American Red Cross of Greenville, 940 Grove Road, Greenville, SC 29605.

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

 

JAMES AMBROS ‘JIM’ GILSTRAP

PICKENS — James Ambros “Jim” Gilstrap, 79, went home to be with the Lord on June 8, 2026.

Born on June 3, 1947, in Miami, Fla., Jim was the son of James Ambros Gilstrap Sr. and Carolyn Sexton Gilstrap. Throughout his life, he was known for his love for God, his dedication to serving others and his desire to invest in people.

Jim spent much of his professional career as an educator, faithfully serving as a school teacher and impacting the lives of countless students. He was respected not only for his knowledge but also for his patience, kindness and genuine concern for those under his care.

Outside the classroom, Jim had a lifelong passion for volleyball. He coached athletes for many years and was deeply invested in helping young people develop both their skills and character. Even after retiring from teaching, he remained active in the sport he loved, continuing to serve as a volleyball referee through the most recent season.

Following his retirement from education, Jim sensed God’s call to missions and answered that call by serving with the International Mission Board in Peru for several years. It was during his ministry in Peru that he met Rose Estrada, who would become his beloved wife. The two were married on Jan. 5, 2020, and shared a love for Christ, missions and serving others.

A faithful member of Pickens First Baptist Church, Jim was committed to helping others grow in their faith. Through his involvement with Bible Training Center for Pastors (BTCP), he helped train and encourage pastors and church leaders throughout Peru and beyond. His ministry touched countless lives and helped strengthen churches around the world.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, brother, friend and ministry partner. Those who knew him will remember his steady faith, servant’s heart, quiet wisdom and genuine love for people. He faithfully used his gifts to encourage others and point them toward Christ.

Jim is survived by his wife, Rose Estrada Gilstrap; his daughter, Nichole Criminger; stepdaughter, Rosa Pamela Estrada; and brother, Robin Gilstrap.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Ambros Gilstrap Sr., and Carolyn Sexton Gilstrap.

Jim’s greatest joy was found in serving the Lord, loving his family and investing in the lives of others. Whether in the classroom, on the volleyball court, in the church or on the mission field, he believed that people mattered and that God’s Word could transform lives. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the students he taught, the athletes he coached, the friends he encouraged and the pastors and church leaders he helped equip for ministry around the world.

A celebration of life service was held on June 13 in the sanctuary of Pickens First Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim’s honor may be made to Mountain View Funeral Home, which is honored to serve the Gilstrap family.

 

TINY SUE BARRETT MORGAN

PICKENS — Tiny Sue Barrett Morgan, 78, loving wife of 52 years to the late Michael “Mike” Morgan, passed away on Monday, June 8, 2026, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on May 29, 1948, in Pickens County, Sue was the cherished daughter of the late Earl Aaron Barrett and Frances Galloway Brown.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Sue retired from Alice Manufacturing’s Foster Plant in 2008 after many years of faithful service. Throughout her career, she also worked for Kentwool, B.J.’s Gas and Food Mart, and the Farmers Market in Dacusville, where she formed many lasting friendships. Above all, Sue treasured her family and found her greatest joy in spending time with those she loved, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who held a special place in her heart.

Survivors include her children, Lynn Lyda (Tim) of Spartanburg, Steve Morgan (Tanya) of Spartanburg, Tammy Crocker (Greg) of Anderson, Penny Morgan of Pickens and Karen Powell (Glenn) of Easley; grandchildren, Matthew Lyda, Andrew Lyda, Neal Morgan, Madison Myers, Owen Morgan, Michael Hardy, Bradley Johnson and Zachary Powell; 13 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Linda Norton (Austin), Peggy Stewart, Jane Hamby, Kathy Leslie and Marie McCall (Derrick).

In addition to her husband and parents, Sue was predeceased by a daughter, Lisa Diane Morgan; two sisters, Ann Atkins and Janice Garren; and a brother, Tommy Barrett.

The family will hold a memorial service to honor Sue’s life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sue’s honor may be made to Cannon Mountain Baptist Church, 302 Woodlane Drive, Pickens SC, 29671.

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

 

FRANCES G CROMER

SIX MILE— Frances G Cromer, went to be with her Lord and Savior on June 8, 2026, at the age of 94.

Frances was born on Sept. 14, 1931, in Six Mile, to the late Albert and Hester Rachel Durham Stephens. She was a faithful member at Gap Hill Church of God until her health declined and even attended in-home church services within the community before the church was built. Frances loved to work in her garden, cooking, sewing or crocheting. She loved to do things herself. What Frances cherished most was the time she had with her family and taking care of and being with her grandchildren.

Frances is survived by her three children, Elizabeth Robinson (Melvin), Franklin Cromer (Vicki) and Joyce Hughes; five grandchildren, Shannon Chapman, Jeremy Hughes, Joni Robinson, Chad Cromer and Amanda Hughes; four great-grandchildren, Hunter Chapman, Casey Chapman, Cayden Cromer and Nate McClure; and three sisters, Sue Gilstrap, Ruby Jean Duncan and Rosa Lee Britton.

In addition to her parents, Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny Cromer; four sisters, Alma Reid, Mildred Powell, Martha Holiday and Nell Thomas; and two brothers, Vernon Stephens and Billy Gaines Stephens.

The funeral was conducted on June 12 at Gap Hill Church of God.

The burial will follow the service at Gap Hill Baptist Church.

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

 

PAUL OGREN

PICKENS — Paul Ogren, passed on June 7, 2026, at the age of 87.

Paul was born on April 3, 1939, in New Haven, Conn., to the late Alfon and Margaret Ahrenkiel Ogren. He was a graduate of Hamden High School in Hamden, Conn. He was employed by the Southern New England Telephone Company for more than 30 years. As a youth, Paul volunteered more than 2,000 hours at the West Rock Nature Center. While a resident of Wallingford, Conn., he was a volunteer fireman at the Tracy Volunteer Fire Department. He was also a 32nd degree Mason and once he moved to South Carolina, he enjoyed volunteering for more than 30 year at the Shiners Hospital helping the children.

In addition to his wife of 28 years, Margie, Paul is survived by his daughter, Cindy Arnold (Chris); four grandchildren, Cecely, Libby, Haley and Kara; one sister-in-law, Julie; a cousin; a niece; three nephews; a grandniece; and two grandnephews of Connecticut and Florida.

A graveside service was held on June 12 at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

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