GANELL B. COOK

DACUSVILLE — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ganell B. Cook of Dacusville, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great great-grandmother, who left this world on Christmas evening, Dec. 25, 2025, at the age of 94.

In addition to her parents, William Carlos and Clara Belle Hightower Barbare, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 67 years, Lewis (Junior) Cook; her two sisters, Vannie Collins and Lillie Mae Bailey; and her two brothers, William (Bill) and Tom Barbare.

Gay, as she preferred to be called, was born April 20, 1931, in Travelers Rest. Mrs. Cook worked most of her life at Monaghan and Dunean Mills. She retired after 12 years from the Greenville County Courthouse, where she was a bailiff, at the age of 80.

Gay is survived by her two daughters, Terry Cook and Scarlett (Cookie) Cook Barbare; son-in-law Billy ‘Boy’; two grandchildren, Heather Earnest Lowery (John) and Chris Earnest (Michelle); five great-grandchildren, Robbin Lowery (Kevin), Jordan Lowery, Justin Lowery (Adara), Christyn Earnest Brown (Jake and her service dog, Beasley) and Trey Earnest (Mikayla); and six great-great-grandchildren, Vivienne, Grey, James, River and Juniper Ganell Lowery and Easton Vincent.

More than anything, Gay loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. She never met a

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

JODY CALIN BROCK MASON

EASLEY — Jody Calin Brock Mason, 36, passed away on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, in Williamston.

Born on July 23, 1989, in Greenville, Jody was the cherished son of Larry Joe Mason and Vanessa Wade Mason. Above all, Jody loved his children dearly and took great joy in being their father. He had a deep love for God and lived his life with a free spirit and a joyful heart. Jody enjoyed playing the guitar and found happiness in music. He had a passion for fast cars and working with his hands, whether fixing, building or operating heavy equipment. He also enjoyed hunting and treasured time spent shopping and making memories with his girls. Known for his humor and infectious laughter, Jody brought light and joy to all who knew him.

Survivors include his parents, Larry and Vanessa Mason of Easley; children, Madelyn Mason, Emma Mason and Aubrianna Mason, all of Easley, and Calin Jay Mason of Virginia; siblings, Dustin Valdez (Britney), Harlei Mason and Destiny Mason; special nephew, Cash Mason; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Mason was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, John Paul and Cecil Elizabeth Mason; maternal grandparents, Bobby and Theresa Wade; and cousin, Kameron Jack Wade.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Mason family.

DELORES M. CRAIGO

EASLEY — Delores M. Craigo, 81, loving wife to the late Herchel Craigo, went home to be with her Lord

HOYT CHRISTOPHER GRANT

PICKENS — Hoyt Christopher Grant, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected Upstate businessman, passed from this life on Dec. 8, 2025, at the age of 93. To know Hoyt was to love him. Sharp as a tack well into his nineties, he loved sharing stories—always remembered in remarkable detail—with anyone willing to listen. He was a humble and generous man, always willing to lend help to anyone in need.

Born and raised in Pickens County, Hoyt was the son of Sidney Christopher and Sula Gillespie Grant. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Laura Ann Breazeale Grant, with whom he shared nearly 70 wonderful years of marriage.

Hoyt was a God-fearing man who loved his country. A proud Army veteran, he served during the Korean War and was stationed in Alaska. He was also a lifelong member of Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church.

A successful and energetic businessman, Hoyt owned and partnered with his brother, Don Grant, in several ventures, including Grant Lumber Company, Grant Brothers Chip Company, Grant Ford, and Grant Body Shop. He was also one of the founding partners of Southern Oaks Golf Course. His leadership extended beyond his own enterprises, as he served on the Board of Directors of Bankers Trust (now Bank of America).

Outside of work, one of Hoyt’s greatest joys was spending time at his cabin with Laura Ann, taking in the beloved view of Table Rock. His passion for the land and its preservation was recognized in 2022 when he received the Tommy Wyche Land Conservation Champion Award for his dedication to protecting the iconic Grant Meadow and the Table Rock viewshed along Highway 11.

Hoyt is survived by his three children; Loretta Brucke (Harold) and Terry Grant (Karen) of Pickens, Barry Grant (Gail) of Easley. He was the grandfather to; Holly Scruggs (Brian), Lauren Patterson (Mack), Justin Brucke (Fallon), Matt Brucke (Julia), Paul Brucke (Brooke), Kali Grant-Rivers (Bill Burke) and Kacey Bingham. He adored his great-grandchildren; Lane and Luke Scruggs, Hudson Brucke, Nora and Bolt Patterson, Sage and Hollis Brucke, Luna and Freya Burke, Ashton Walden, Cameron and Brooklynn Barnes; and great-great grandchild, Jaxon Tate and Dallas Walden. Also surviving is one brother, Stan Grant (Kathy) of Cypress, Texas.

He was predeceased by his parents; three brothers, Don Grant (Carol), Jerry Grant and Charlie Grant; and two sisters, Mildred Lewis (Edwin) and Nancy Wells (Bobby). He was also preceded in death by a grandson, Jimi Thomas.

Services honoring Hoyt took place on Dec. 11, at Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church. A private graveside service followed for the family.

Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels, 349 Edgemont Avenue, Liberty or Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church, PO Box 674, Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Grant family.

DONALD LARRY MARLER

SIX MILE — Dr. Donald Larry (Don) Marler was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was marked by faith, service, and a deep love for people. He passed away Friday, Dec. 12, 2025 surrounded by the legacy of a life well lived; one built on quiet leadership, kindness, and steadfast devotion to his family and community.

Don grew up in Woodruff, and was proud of his roots. He graduated from Woodruff High School in 1973, Wofford College in 1977, and earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1984. Dentistry was more than a profession to

DEBORAH LOUISE MAIER

EASLEY — Deborah Louise Maier, 75, of Easley, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday morning Nov. 30, 2025.

Debby was born in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 19, 1950 to Peter John McGurk Jr. and Regina Elizabeth McGurk.

Debby worked as a secretary for many years at the United Mine Workers Union in Maryland before moving to Florida in 1989. Shortly after moving to Florida she was hired at Publix in Sunrise, Fla., where she worked in various positions, her latest being a direct store delivery receiving specialist. Debby retired from Publix after more than 20 years of service. It was at Publix that she met her future husband, Robert Maier. They were eventually married on July 11, 1995, in Sapphire, N.C., and remained happily married for more than 30 years.

Debby was a member of Easley First United Methodist Church, and she was also involved in Pickens County Meals on Wheels, where she and her husband would deliver hot meals to people in need.

She loved working in the garden planting flowers and tending to her plants. She loved the outdoors, and she and her husband would often vacation in the mountains of western North Carolina, where they would enjoy hiking, swimming and traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway. They would also take yearly vacations to the beaches in Beaufort, N.C., and the Outer Banks. Debby enjoyed going fishing with her husband, and she also loved watching college and professional football. As a native of Washington, D.C., she was a very avid fan of the Washington Redskins football team.

Debby was an avid reader and enjoyed reading mystery novels. She loved cooking and most of all spending time with her family and grandchildren. Debby was a very outgoing and friendly person, whose smile could light up a room. But most of all she loved living life and hanging out with her husband, Robert.

Deborah is survived by her loving husband, Robert Maier; her son, Donald Moody (Kara); her stepchildren, Mark William Maier (Alicia) and Laura Anne Boone (Seth); her grandchildren, Gavin Moody, Colin Moody, Kaylan Moody, Skyler Moody, Rylee Moody, Caitlyn Grace Maier, Charles Robert Maier and Amelia Boone; her brother, Peter John McGurk III; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents and her youngest brother, Danny McGurk.

A visitation was held on Dec. 8 at Robinson Funeral Home in downtown Easley, followed by cremation.

A memorial service will be held at a later date yet to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pickens County Meals on Wheels or Epworth Children’s Home.

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

JAMES JERRY OWENS

EASLEY — James Jerry Owens, 86, loving husband of 23 years to Peggy Elaine Owens, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Oct. 13, 1939, in Liberty, Jerry was the cherished son of the late Clarence Owens and Irene Patterson Owens. A proud patriot, he honorably served his country in

JIM HOLLIDAY

SIX MILE — Jim Holliday, 90, loving husband of 67 years to Martha B. Holliday, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, at Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.

Born on Sept. 23, 1935, in Six Mile, Jim was the cherished son of the late John D. Holliday and Vaudie Dillard Holliday. A lifelong resident of Six Mile, he faithfully lived out his Christian values and was a charter and still active member of Ridgeland Drive Baptist Church. Jim found purpose and joy in the rhythms of country life, such as gardening, farming, raising livestock and keeping up with the sports he loved. Above all, he held his family close to his heart and treasured every moment spent with them.

Survivors include his wife, Martha B. Holliday of the home; son, Ray Holliday (Donna)

DENNIS VERNON CHASTAIN

PICKENS — Dennis Vernon Chastain, 73, loving husband for 46 years to Jane Fields Chastain, died peacefully and unexpectedly in his sleep at home on Nov. 21, 2025.

Born on Oct. 4, 1952, in Greenville, Dennis was the cherished son of the late Artis and Sarah (Canham) Chastain.

Dennis grew up in Slater, in what he believed to be the best place and the best period of time. He earned his B.S. and Master’s degrees from Winthrop College, where he met Jane, the love of his life. He lived his adult life on his family’s homeplace near Table Rock, where his ancestors have been deeply rooted since 1796. He was honored to be the recipient of Upstate Forever’s Extraordinary Achievement Award for his more than 40 years of work as a writer, historian, botanist, guide and conservation advocate.

Dennis was an award-winning outdoor writer, historian, tour guide and interpretive naturalist. He wrote feature articles for many years for South Carolina Wildlife Magazine and other publications. He led tours and field trips for Clemson’s Master Naturalist program and several other groups. He made a number of important discoveries, including wildflowers never recorded in Pickens County, the remnants of long-forgotten roads and Native American trails and numerous prehistoric rock carvings on Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains. Dennis was once described by The Greenville News as a “modern-day Daniel Boone.”

Dennis was the Blue Wall Vice President of the Pickens County Historical Society, a member of the Pickens County 250 Committee and a member of Upstate Forever.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Jane Fields Chastain; his sister, Dorothy Chastain Cantrell; his brother and sister-in-law, David and Patricia DuBose Chastain; and his niece, Laurie Chastain.

In addition to his parents, he was recently predeceased by his nephew, John Chastain, on Nov. 16.

An informal “gathering of family and friends drop-in” to celebrate Dennis will be held at the Heritage Pavilion at Hagood Mill (138 Hagood Mill Road, Pickens) from 2-4 p.m. Dec. 6.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dennis’ memory to Hagood Mill Foundation, P.O. Box 98, Pickens SC, 29671; or to the Pickens County Historical Society, P.O. Box 775, Pickens SC, 29671.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Chastain family.

JOHN COKE SMITH, III

EASLEY — Mr. John “JC” Coke Smith, III, 73, husband of Jerrilu Kirk Smith, passed away Monday, Nov. 24, 2025.

Born in Anderson, JC was a son of the late John Coke Smith, Jr. and the late Mary Allen Smith. He graduated from Wren High School in 1970 and attended Clemson University where he proudly played football. Mr. Smith was the third of four generations of Registered Land Surveyors at Smith Surveying established in 1909. An ordained Deacon, Mr. Smith was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he served as a Sunday School Teacher. He was a member of The Rotary Club of Easley. Mr. Smith was fluent in German, and enjoyed traveling to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 52 years, are his son, John Coke Smith IV (Jennifer) of Easley; a daughter, Libby Smith Holliday (Andy)

RAMETH OWENS PARLER

CLEMSON — Rameth Owens Parler, 60 of Clemson, passed away peacefully in her home on Nov. 7, 2025, with her husband by her side. She had been bravely facing a variety of health challenges for many years, most recently cancer.

Rameth was born Aug. 16, 1965, in Greenville, to Walton Owens Jr. and Rameth Owens, both professors at Clemson University. A graduate of D.W. Daniel High School in Central, she also received degrees from Clemson University in mathematics and in electrical engineering.

She worked as a global IT administrator for several multinational businesses.

She loved cooking and traveling, playing board and card games and solving puzzles. She loved oceans and lakes. She adored all dogs, and she raised Corgis, German Shepherds and Saint Bernards.

Rameth is survived by her husband, Sam Parler Jr.; mother, Rameth Owens; sister, Charlotte Owens Ladd; and her sister’s children, Owen Ladd and Ruby Ladd.

Rameth was preceded in death by her father, Walton Owens Jr.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center at mskcc.org.

CONNIE ANN BRANHAM COX

EASLEY — Connie Ann Branham Cox, 75, of Easley, passed away on Oct. 30, 2025, at Greenville Memorial Hospital after a brief illness.

She was born in Rock Hill on May 10, 1950, to the late Morris and Edith Branham.

She is survived by her son, Jerry Cox (Becky Robinson) of Altoona, Pa.; her sister, Marsha Bowers (Phillip) of Six Mile; and her niece, Payton Bowers.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Beverly Dee Everett.

The family would like to thank Connie’s “sister-cousins,” Janice Baldwin, Barbara Jean Allen and Brenda Martin, for their care and support.

A graveside service was held on Nov. 10 at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Brain Tumor Association at abta.org/.

Favorite memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting thomasmcafee.com.

MICHAEL EUGENE ‘BIG MIKE’ WATSON

CENTRAL — Michael Eugene “Big Mike” Watson, 73, of Central, husband to the late

ANTONETTE RENE MEYER

PICKENS — Antonette Rene Meyer, 56, of Pickens, went home to be with the Lord on Oct. 25, 2025, following her two-month fight against a late cancer diagnosis. We take comfort knowing she is now pain free and find peace knowing there are no goodbyes, only “we’ll see you later.”

She was preceded in death by her father, Anthony Meyer, and sister, Barbara Clardy, both of whom we know she is elated to be with again.

She is survived by her beloved children, Brittany Arms of Woodruff, Nicholas Pancoast of Pickens and Micheala Chavis of Greenville; her mother, Jane Meyer, and brother, Tony Meyer, both of Pickens; and her cherished grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure, Camden Arms, Levi Pancoast, Kylee Arms, Ethan Mumma, Lexi Chavis, Blair Arms, Lucas Arms, Zoey Chavis, Kara Chavis and Bethany Pancoast. Her greatest joy in life came from her family — especially her grandchildren, who were truly the light of her world.

Antonette had a big, beautiful heart and an even bigger love for the Lord. Her warmth and love will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who was blessed to know her.

A celebration of life will be held at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at River Hills Baptist Church, 5762 Reidville Road, Moore, SC 29369.

ROGER DALE CHRISLEY

CENTRAL — Roger Dale Chrisley, 75, of Central, passed away on Oct. 25, 2025.

Dale was born in Oconee County to the late Miles B. and Patsy Chrisley. He was a man