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Courier Obituaries 2-18-26

ALBERT KARL MARTIN

LIBERTY — Albert Karl Martin, 62, loving husband of 35 years to Tina McKenzie Martin, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, at St. Francis Downtown Hospital in Greenville.

Born on Sept. 18, 1963, in Anderson County, Karl was the beloved son of the late Clyde Martin and Sarah Howard Henderson. A man of many interests and talents, Karl found joy in music, especially playing the guitar, and loved spending time fishing. He had a passion for working on old cars and was truly a jack of all trades, always willing to lend his skills wherever they were needed. His faith was central to his life, and God held a special place in his heart. Above all, Karl loved his family dearly and cherished the time spent with those he held close.

Survivors include his wife, Tina McKenzie Martin of the home; son, Matthew Justin Martin of Liberty; grandchildren, Trevor Justin Martin, Mathew Elijah Martin and Lillie Grace Martin; siblings, Lorena Martin Lostraglio, Naomi Hope Henderson (Michael) and Linda Henderson Duncan.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Martin was predeceased by Wilmer Gene Henderson, the man who raised him as his own and loved him like a father; and his siblings, Gwendolyn Martin, Tambralyn Bergholm, Wilmer Gene Henderson, Jr., Darlene Martin and Helen Martin Merk.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Martin family.

 

ALVIN THOMAS ‘BUDDY’ DALLAS

EASLEY — Mr. Alvin Thomas “Buddy” Dallas, 93, husband of Shirley Senn Dallas, went to be with his Lord and Savior Monday, Feb. 9, 2026.

Born in Whitmire, S.C., the son of the late William Thomas Dallas and the late Helen Wicker Dallas, Buddy was a graduate of Whitmire High School and retired from Colonial Oil Industries with 32 years of service. He was an active member of Easley First United Methodist Church where he belonged to Pathfinders Sunday School Class, served on numerous church committees and attended the Men’s Friday Breakfast Club.

Buddy was a U.S. Air Force Veteran and a proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was a very patriotic American who loved God and his country, but his greatest love was for his family, whom he adored. Buddy will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 72 years, are his daughter, Dale Dallas Kohn (Joe) of Texas; his sons, Blake Dallas of Easley and Miles Dallas (Scott Blankshine) of New York City, N.Y.; his grandchildren, Kelly Forman, Allison Houghton and Renee Dallas; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Buddy was predeceased by a great-grandson, Joran Jenkins.

Memorial services were Feb. 12, at Easley First United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Easley First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 589, Easley, SC 29641.

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

 

DAVID BARRY SUDDUTH

LIBERTY — Mr. David Barry Sudduth, 65, husband of Nancy Elrod Sudduth, of Liberty, went to be with his Lord and Savior Friday, Feb. 6, 2026.

Born in Greenville County, a son of the late Marvin Herman Sudduth and the late Carolyn Violet Timmons Sudduth, David was a devoted husband, father, Papi, and faithful servant of Christ. He proudly served his community as a retired police officer.

His faith was the foundation of his life, and he was a dedicated deacon at his beloved East Side Baptist Church, where he served with humility and commitment.

Known for artistic talent and quick wit, David has a gift for making people smile and feel at ease.

In addition to his loving wife of 40 years, he is survived by his children, Noe Sudduth (Heather) of Pendleton and Corri LaBrecque (Josh) of Liberty; a brother, Greg Sudduth (Melody) of Ga.; and his three cherished grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

David is now reunited in heaven with his parents and loving grandmother.

The family hosted a memorial service on Feb. 12, at East Side Baptist Church, Liberty.

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

 

BETTY JOE ROBERTS

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Betty Joe Roberts, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, who left us peacefully on Feb. 9, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on Oct. 7, 1947, in Pickens, she was a daughter of the late Luther and Ellen Brock Norton. Betty spent her life spreading joy and love to everyone around her, especially her cherished family.

Betty was a vibrant soul, known for her green thumb and her passion for gardening. She loved working outside, nurturing her flowers and plants, which reflected her nurturing spirit. An animal lover to the core, Betty had a soft spot for all creatures, often finding joy in their company.

As a talented weaver in the textile industry, Betty poured her heart into her craft, creating beautiful pieces that embodied her skill and creativity. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, and she often shared her creations with family and friends, leaving them with heartfelt keepsakes.

Family was everything to Betty, and she delighted in spending quality time with her children and grandchildren, each moment cherished more than the last. She is survived by her loving daughter who cared for her during recent times, Penny Gosnell, Susan Powell; two sons, Roy Parham and Gregory Parham; her dear sister, Louise Hendricks; and six grandchildren. Her legacy of love and compassion will forever remain in their hearts.

Betty’s life will be celebrated in a private memorial service to be held at a later date by the family.

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

 

PETER KITSOS, SR.

EASLEY — Mr. Peter Kitsos, Sr., 91, husband of Isabel Carolina Rodriguez Kitsos, passed away at his home Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026.

Born in New York, N.Y., a son of the late Costa S. Kitsos and the late Thelxiopi Kitsos and, Mr. Kitsos was the owner and operator of Apollo Bullet. He was a member of St. George Orthodox Greek Church.

Peter was an avid hunter and loved camping, boating and fishing. He was a great dancer, but making ammunition was his greatest passion which lead to his successful business. His family and many friends will miss him deeply.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 64 years, are his sons, Andrew Peter Kitsos of Tallahassee, Fla., Dean Gus Kitsos (Linda) of Simpsonville and Peter Gus Kitsos, Jr. of Easley; his grandchildren, Alex Kitsos, Bella Kitsos and Nicholas Kitsos; and his great-grandchildren, Maria Isabel Gonzalez Rampersad, Arianna Presley Kitsos, Marina Isabel Kitsos, Alan Rodriguez and Cristalle Rodriguez. In addition to his parents, Mr. Kitsos was predeceased by a daughter, Josephine Domenech; and his sisters, Bettye Peters and Faye Columbus.

A private family service will be held.

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

 

ROGER DEAN CUNNINGHAM

LIBERTY — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Roger Dean Cunningham, who left us peacefully on Feb. 9, 2026, at the age of 65. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on Jan. 28, 1961, Roger called Liberty, his home in later years. He was a son of the late Jerry Jackson Cunningham and Mildred Sanders Burgess.

Roger was well-loved not only for his enormous heart but also for his infectious spirit. He had a deep passion for Clemson football, which he followed with the same fervor he brought to his beloved wrestling matches. Roger was a man who cherished his family above all, and he had a special affection for children, sharing jokes, stories, and love wherever he went.

He is survived by his devoted spouse, Teresa Derrick Cunningham; three step-daughters, Astra Barlow, Tiffany Barlow and Vanessa Austin; his brother, Jerry Franklin Cunningham; his sister, Joyce McCall; his cherished nieces, Marie Cunningham and Cherie Gill; and numerous grandchildren and great nieces and nephews. Roger’s love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Angela Blake.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 17, at Liberty Mortuary where family and friends will gather to celebrate the warmth and love he brought into our lives. Burial followed at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

Roger may no longer be with us, but his spirit will live on in the memories we share and the love he so generously gave. He will be laid to rest in a peaceful burial, where his family can continue to honor his legacy.

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

 

DEBRA LEAH ‘DEBBIE’ BAR-DOV

EASLEY — Debra Leah “Debbie” Bar-Dov, 76, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her family.

Born on June 23, 1949, in Deadwood, S.D., Debbie was the beloved daughter of the late Willard Puckett and Joyce Weischedel Puckett. She cherished time spent with her family, especially Abby, Ashleah, McKenzie and Elliott, who brought her endless joy. Debbie loved watching Days of Our Lives, card games, crafting, dancing, beach trips and drinking coffee.

Survivors include her daughters, Jacqueline Kidd of Saluda, S.C., Stacie Jones of Lexington, S.C., Robin Utsey of Columbia, and Abby Raines of Pickens; grandchildren, Joshua, Lindsay, Joel, Justin, Megan, Alex, Ashleah, Chloe, Ryan, McKenzie and Elliott; 10 precious great-grandchildren; one brother; and six sisters.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Bar-Dov family.

 

BETTY B. CHAPMAN

EASLEY — Betty Baker Chapman, 93, beloved wife of the late Clyde E. Chapman, passed away Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at her home.

Born in Pickens County, she was a daughter of the late Ernest Russell Baker and Mary Elizabeth Norman Baker.

Mrs. Chapman was a 1950 graduate of Pickens High School. She retired as the owner of the Credit Bureau of Easley and Pickens County after 49 years. She was a member of Easley First Baptist Church, where she was a member of the ELLER-MAHAFFEY circle and assisted with the nursery for over 60 years. She also enjoyed spending time on the lake with her family, entertaining with friends, and traveling with her husband. She was an awesome cook and was well known for her delicious Pecan Pie.

Surviving are her children, Richard Chapman of Easley, Karen Pettyjohn (Robert) of Wake Forest, N.C. and Julie Ianuario (Paul) of Salem; grandchildren, Katie Reuther (Andrew), Wendy Poole (Steven), Rebecca Parker (Jeremy), Nik Chapman (Jenny), Alexander Chapman (Anna), Christopher Chapman and Jennifer Recio (Cole); 12 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Ernest Baker of Helen, Ga., Charles Baker of Lawai, Hawaii and Jack Baker of Six Mile.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her sisters, Mildred Jenkins, Mary Frances Neely and Joan Hendricks, and a brother, Robert G. Baker.

Funeral service were held on Feb. 16, at Easley First Baptist Church, in the church’s sanctuary. Burial was in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Flowers accepted, or memorials may be made to Easley First Baptist Church, 300 East 1st Avenue, Easley, SC 29640.

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

 

REV. TOMMY MERLIN ESUARY

PICKENS — Rev. Tommy Merlin Esuary, 87, loving husband of 69 years to Donnarene “Donna” Esuary, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Sept. 2, 1938, in Pickens County, Preacher Tommy was the beloved son of the late Clayton William Esuary and Julia Irene Brown Esuary. A devoted member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Pickens, he faithfully served the Lord and his congregation with unwavering dedication. For 42 and half years, he shepherded his church as pastor, and for a remarkable 63 years, he answered God’s call as a preacher of the Gospel.

Preacher Tommy loved his family deeply, cherished his church, and above all, loved his Lord and Savior. His life was a testament to steadfast faith, humble service, and enduring love. He adored his wife beyond measure and, in a tender and fitting reflection of their lifelong devotion, he was gazing into her eyes when he peacefully passed from this life into eternity.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Esuary of the home; daughters, Debbie Liveright (Todd) of Seneca and Patricia Bearden (Kirby) of Pickens; grandchildren, Spencer Waldrop (Tammy), Robbie Waldrop (Jessica), Levi Bearden (Ashley), Lacey Ellenburg (David), Illyse Bearden, Chris Liveright (Kristie) and Sean Liveright (Heather); 20 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and brothers, Alton Esuary, Jacky Esuary and Jimmy Esuary.

In addition to his parents, Preacher Tommy was predeceased by his brothers, Billy Esuary and Bobby Esuary; and sister, Betty Gillespie.

The family would like to express their heart felt gratitude to Agape Hospice, especially Tonya and Stephanie, for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they so lovingly showed to Preacher Tommy during his final days.

They also extend their sincere appreciation to their church family at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church for the many prayers, visits, calls, and unwavering support. The love and encouragement shown during this time have been a true blessing and a source of strength.

Funeral service were held on Feb. 15, in the sanctuary of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church. A private entombment will take place at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Esuary family.

 

FRANCES VIRGINIA ‘JEAN’ WHITE

LIBERTY — Frances Virginia “Jean” White, 85, loving wife of 61 years to Kenneth Thomas “Ken” White, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on Jan. 5, 1941, in Greenville, Jean was the beloved daughter of the late James Burton and Frances Ferguson Burton. She was a devoted and faithful member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Pickens, where her strong faith and love for her church family were evident to all who knew her. Jean cherished her family above all else and found her greatest joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She will be fondly remembered for her warm spirit, her loving nature, and the delicious banana pudding she was famous for making, an expression of the care and comfort she so generously shared with others.

Survivors include her husband, Ken White of the home; daughters, Elaine Mann and Sonja Ellenburg, both of Greenville; grandchildren, Kevin Mann (Tiffany) and Hayley Ferguson (Shane); great-grandchildren, Sutton Mann and Titus Mann; brothers, Danny Burton and Ricky Burton; and sister, Betty Carolyn Newton.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. White was predeceased by her brothers, Jimmy Burton and Mikey Burton.

Visitation will be held on Feb. 19, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the sanctuary of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. Burial will follow the service at Bethlehem Church Cemetery in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the White family.

 

JOHN THEODORE POULOS, JR

GAFFNEY — John Theodore Poulos, Jr., 99, went home to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on Feb. 11, 2026.

He was born in Hendersonville, N.C. on Oct. 13, 1926, to the late Mr. and Mrs. John T. Poulos, Sr. (Lydia Rose).

Mr. Poulos was married to the late Ann Jean Duncan Poulos of Pickens. Survived by his daughter, Ann Michele Poulos of Pickens and sister-in-law, Rebecca D. Doyle of Hockessin, Del.

He raised his wife’s two young sisters with his daughter. He loved them as his own and, later when grown, their families. Raising three girls, he saw to their rearing by ensuring they were independent and steadfast; an important trait in a changing world.

Mr. Poulos graduated from Spartanburg High School in Spartanburg. He attended Clemson College on an athletic scholarship, where he played basketball and football. After his first year he was drafted into the Army to serve in WW II.

During his lifetime he participated in many community activities and provided his expertise to various community organizations on building renovations.

His favorite pastime was watching Clemson football. Always coaching from his chair in front of the TV or at the game itself.

In his later years, he resided at the Palmetto Patriots VA Nursing home in Gaffney, S.C..

Mr. Poulos became a member of First Presbyterian Church in Greenville. He was a Deacon in the PC (USA) when living in Wilmington, Delaware. Mr. Poulos used his God given talents to the fullest of his abilities.

Graveside Services will be held on Feb. 23 at 3 p.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Pickens. On Feb. 24, the Memorial Service will be held at The Palmetto Patriot Veteran Administration Nursing Home in Gaffney, 120 Hampshire Drive. The service will be held at 10 a.m.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

VICKIE CLARA GRANT STOKES

WALHALLA — Vickie Clara Grant Stokes, 63, of Walhalla, passed away peacefully on Feb. 15, 2026, with family at the GHS Cottingham Hospice House.

Born on Sept. 7, 1962, in Oconee County, Vickie was the cherished daughter of James Curtis Grant and June Fisher Grant, both of Tamassee. She was a proud graduate of Tamassee-Salem High School and was of the Baptist faith.

Vickie was married to James Scott Stokes, and together they had four children, Ethan Stokes (Gloria) of Walhalla, Krystal Stokes of Clemson, James Stokes of Clemson and Joshua Stokes of Walhalla; two daughters from a previous marriage, Jessica Hope Freeman Chapman of Easley and Ivy Freeman of Easley.

She will be remembered for her free spirit, love of animals, and devotion to family. Her legacy continues to live in the hearts of her children, all who loved her and those who called her friend.

Vickie is survived by her husband, Scott Stokes; six children; 12 grandchildren; a sister, Regina Grant Lyda (Lawrence) of Pickens; brother, Doug Grant of Salem, and was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will hold a graveside service on Feb. 20, 3 p.m. at the Whitmire Cemetery in Tamassee. Friends and family are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Vickie’s honor made to the Cottingham Hospice House, 390 Keowee School Rd, Seneca, SC 29672.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Stokes family.

 

CAROLYN R PAGE

PICKENS — Carolyn R Page, went to be with her Lord and Savior, on Feb. 15, 2026, at the age of 75, surrounded by her family.

Mrs. Page was born on Aug. 4, 1950, to the late Henry and Barbara Hendry Robinson. She was a faithful member of Concord Baptist Church in Pickens. Mrs. Page enjoyed reading, knitting, and cooking for her family. She always treasured the time she got to spend with them.

Mrs. Page is survived by her husband of 46 years, Ken Page; seven children, Lara Nimer (Mike), Amanda Stephens (Casey), Ben Page (Erin), Debra Eudy (Ricky), Cindy Capps (Waylon), Wendy Stroupe (Torben) and Kenny Page Jr.; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and four siblings, Henry Robinson, Patrick Robinson (Melissa), Joe Robinson (Leida) and Lou Mack.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Feb. 20, at Concord Baptist Church in Pickens.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. at the church.

The committal will take place following the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

 

MARGARET B. BLACK

SIX MILE — Margaret B. Black, passed away on Feb. 14, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by her family.

Mrs. Black was born on March 24, 1939, in Marietta, to the late Norvin and Bertha Gilstrap Barker. She was a faithful member of Roanoke Baptist Church until her health declined. Mrs. Black loved to go traveling to the beach, working outside in her garden, or inside baking, reading, and coloring. The time she cherished the most was the time she spent with her family.

Mrs. Black is survived by her two children, William Black (Chandra) and Theresa Porter (Edrew); 10 grandchildren; 10 great- grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; two brothers, Doyle Barker (Julia) and Kenneth Barker (Mary); and one sister, Joyce Durham.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Black preceded in death by her husband, William Hamilton Black; her son, Wayne Black; and her siblings, Dorothy Welborn, James Barker, Charles Barker, Geraldine Jones and Betty Ruth Whitaker.

Visitation will be held on Feb. 18, from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Roanoke Baptist Church, located in Liberty.

The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m.

Mrs. Black will be laid to rest at Roanoke Baptist Church cemetery.