JAMES ‘JIM’ F. STUCKEY

EASLEY — James “Jim” Fountain Stuckey, widower of Barbara Folger Ballentine Stuckey, died Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, one month shy of his 99th birthday, having the sure confidence in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born on Feb. 10, 1927, he was the son of the late Carson Cleon Stuckey and the late Mary Allene Hanna Stuckey.

Upon graduation from Hartsville High School in 1944, he enlisted in the Army and was discharged when his training program was cancelled. Almost immediately he enlisted in the Navy, trained to be a Navy Pilot, and served for two years. As a veteran, he attended the University of South Carolina before ultimately attending and graduating from Clemson Agricultural College June 1951 with a degree in electrical engineering. Prioritizing family life and his love for Barbara, he chose to work in his father-in-law’s business, Ballentine Hardware, ultimately becoming its owner.

In the progression of years, he was involved in many community groups: He was a

MARIE GOOLEY  SMITH MITCHELL

SIX MILE — Marie Gooley Smith Mitchell, 100, joined her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. She was a resident of Clemson Downs in Clemson.

Marie was born on June 14, 1925, in Avalon, Ga., to the late Clarence Monroe Smith and Minnie Mae Shope Smith Brown.

She married Lloyd Ernest Mitchell in Little Rock, Ark., in 1945, and they shared 76years of marriage. Together they made their home in Six Mile, where they lived for 68 years.

Marie was a woman of great faith and love for the Lord. She demonstrated her Christ like spirit through her warm hugs, radiant smile, joyful laughter, perseverance, caregiving and unconditional love for everyone she met.

A devoted homemaker, Marie was also a gardener, farmer and skilled seamstress. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, macramé and many other crafts.

She attended the Anderson School for Girls and was largely self-educated. Marie

JONI LYNN PARRIS

LIBERTY — Joni Lynn Parris, 62, loving wife of more than 30 years to Tommy Dean Parris, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at her residence.

Born on May 5, 1963, Joni was the beloved daughter of the late Darryl Medlin and Nellie Duncan. A devoted Clemson Tigers fan, she enjoyed cheering on her team and sharing that passion with those around her. Joni had a special love for animals, especially her dogs, and treasured the companionship of her beloved pets. Above all, she loved her family deeply, finding her greatest joy in time spent with her grandchildren, who held a very special place in her heart.

Joni is survived by her husband, Tommy Parris; grandchildren, Chase Crenshaw (Brooklyn) and Addyson Crenshaw; brothers, Jody Medlin (Ruby) and Jay Medlin

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