DONNA  PARSONS SCHULTZ

EASLEY — Donna Parsons Schultz, 82, wife of Henry Schultz, of Easley, passed away peacefully at her home with her husband at her side on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026.

Born on May 18, 1943, in Pen Argyl, Pa., to the late Beulah Pritchard Parsons and the late Elwood Parsons, Donna spent her youth in Bangor, Pa. She received practical nurse training at St. Luke’s Hospital in Bethlehem, Pa., and served as a licensed practical nurse at Easton Hospital, Easton, Pa., before her life as a military and corporate wife took her to Florida, Japan, California, Hawaii, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and to her home of the past 30 years, Anderson County.

A lifelong Lutheran, and a pianist from childhood, Donna provided her music skills to her church, Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Easley and to “Just Friends,” a group of fellow Lutherans and musicians who entertained over the years at various retirement homes in the Easley area. She strongly believed the saying “Who sings, prays twice.”

In addition to her loving husband of 61 years, Donna is survived by her four children; sons, Michael Schultz (Karla) of Easley and Steven Schultz (Erin) of Chuckey, Tenn.; and daughters, Sheri Paznokas (Pete) of Harleysville, Pa., and Laura Harrison (Pete) of Romney, W. Va.; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a brother, James Parsons (Kay) of Bangor, Pa.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She is especially proud that she passed on her love (and talent) for music to her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Neil Parsons.

In spite of her many relocations, more than 20 different addresses, Donna found close friends at each stop, and her cooperative spirit made her welcome and involved at each stop.

Raising her four children, and seeing the life skills she passed on reflected in the lives of her grandchildren, was her greatest joy. Although homebound for the past six years, she received updates and visits from her scattered family, and celebrated the milestones and successes of each. Her memories and love of her family and friends remained strong, even as she lived her last weeks at her home under the care of her husband, family and Hospice of the Upstate.

She and her family are especially grateful for the care and support they received from Prisma Health and Hospice of the Upstate.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 27 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Easley, followed by a visitation and fellowship at the church. Donna and her husband will have their urns entombed at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis, Md., at a later date.

Flowers will be accepted and the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Donna’s honor to Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000 Boone, NC 28607 or to Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Easley, 101 E. 1st Ave., Easley, SC 29640.

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

 

FRANCES ‘TUNKIE’ COLE STOKES

PICKENS — Frances “Tunkie” Cole Stokes, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, at the McLeod Hospice House in Florence.

She was born on Aug. 20, 1938 in Greenville, to the late Richard Ansel Cole and Mozelle White Cole. She met and married the love of her life Sam Watson Stokes, Sr in Pickens. Tunkie graduated from Pickens High School then finished Columbia College. She was a successful entrepreneur and teacher, partnering in two successful businesses and teaching commercial cooking at the Pickens County Vocational School. She was a wonderful cook, loved reading, enjoyed traveling with family and friends and spent many Saturdays tailgating at Georgia Bulldog football games.

She leaves behind her son Sam (Shari Porter) Stokes, Jr.; two grandchildren, Molly McHugh Stokes and Mary Frances Stokes; a great grandchild, Athens Porter Mozingo; and a cousin Mary (Will) Liles Gravely.

Preceding her in death are her husband Sam Watson Stokes, Sr.; her parents Richard and Mozelle Cole; her aunts Mary White Liles, Lucille White Rickborn; and her cousin Ephriam Rutledge Liles, Jr.

She was a longtime member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Easley, where her memorial service and inurnment will be held at 1 p.m. on Feb. 28. The family will receive friends at 135 Glassy Mountain Street, Pickens, on Feb. 27 from 1 to 5 p.m.

Memorials in her honor may be made to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 1200 Powdersville Road Easley, SC 29642.

 

GRACE RAMPEY

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Grace Hughes Rampey, who left us peacefully on Feb. 21, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on Feb. 13, 1939, in Liberty, she was a daughter of the late Joel Hughes, Sr. and Delenia Ellis Hughes.  Grace was a loving daughter, dedicated wife, and cherished mother. She lived her entire life in Liberty, where she touched the lives of many with her warm spirit and unwavering kindness.

She dedicated a significant portion of her life to her work as a bookkeeper at T.E. Jones and Sons Furniture Store. Her meticulous nature and attention to detail made her an invaluable asset to the business and the community. Beyond her professional life, Grace found joy in her love for gardening, often seen tending to her flowers and nurturing her vibrant garden, which mirrored the beauty she brought to those around her. Reading was another passion of hers, providing her with countless hours of adventure and learning.

Grace is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, Joe Rampey, and her wonderful daughter, Tamara Flanagan, who will carry forward her legacy of love and compassion. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Josh Clark, Brian Alexander (Amanda), Susan Justus (Prelo), Jessica Bailey (Adam), Savanna Flanagan and Kyle Flanagan, and six great grandchildren.

She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Toni Juanita Rampey; three sisters, Ruth Morgan, Bertha Smith and Lucy Madden; and four brothers, Lloyd Hughes, Curtis Hughes, Roy Hughes and Joel Hughes, Jr.

In honor of Grace’s life, a memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Feb. 26, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. The visitation will be prior to the service from 12:30 until 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary.  She will be laid to rest privately at Westview Cemetery in Liberty.

Grace’s legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of her loved ones, and she will be sorely missed but fondly remembered. May she rest in eternal peace.

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

 

DENNIS RAYMOND VERBEKE

LIBERTY — It is with profound sadness that the family of Dennis Raymond Verbeke announce his passing on Feb. 17, 2026.

Anyone who knew Dennis understood the joy he brought into every room. He had a remarkable gift for making people smile and laugh, and his quick wit and playful sense of humor made him unforgettable. A true jokester at heart, Dennis never met a stranger; he knew someone everywhere he went and was a genuine people person who cherished the connections he made throughout his life.

Dennis, born Sept. 6, 1956, leaves behind his beloved wife of 35 years, Leola (Sampson) Verbeke, whom he loved with his whole heart and with whom he shared a lifetime of memories. He is also survived by his loving sister, Denise Haas, and his brother, Randall Verbeke.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Dean Verbeke and Kenneth Verbeke; his sister, Susan Elias; and his parents, Ed and Joann Verbeke.

Dennis will be deeply missed by his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, in-laws and countless friends whose lives were brightened by his laughter, kindness and unforgettable spirit. His memory will live on in the smiles and stories shared by all who were blessed to know him.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Verbeke family.

 

RAY MITCHELL BUSBY

LIBERTY — Mr. Ray Mitchell Busby, 87, loving husband of the late Martha Sue Busby, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his devoted family.

Born on Dec. 26, 1938, in Elberton, Ga., Ray was the beloved son of the late Joe Cohen Busby and the late Vernon M. Fortson Busby. A man of steadfast faith and strength, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 21 years. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, integrity and deep devotion to his family. Ray labored faithfully to provide for those he loved and will be remembered for his determined spirit, gentle heart and unwavering commitment to his home, his community and his country.

Ray enlisted in the United States Navy in 1956, shortly after his 18th birthday. His service began at Point Mugu Naval Air Station in California. During his distinguished 21-year career, he served aboard several naval vessels, including the USS Sirius, USS Allegheny and USS Mauna Loa, traveling throughout the world, including the Philippines and the Mediterranean.

Some of his most cherished memories were made during his time stationed at Pearl Harbor, Moffett Field in California, the Navy Supply Depot in Bayonne, N.J., and as a Naval recruiter in Anderson, and his final duty assignment at Fort Allen in Puerto Rico, where he established the animal shelter on base — a testament to his compassionate heart. After faithfully serving his country for 21 years, Ray retired from the Navy in 1976 and made his home in Easley. Though retired from active duty, his pride in serving his country remained evident throughout his life.

Following his honorable military retirement, Ray worked in construction and as an electrician, contributing to the building of the dam at the Bad Creek Project. He later joined General Electric in Greenville, where he faithfully worked for 20 years before retiring in 2003.

In the 22 years that followed, Ray filled his days enjoying the simple blessings of life — riding his Gator, tending his garden, fishing, woodworking and spending time with family and friends. He especially treasured the companionship of his dogs, and most dearly, his beloved Sophie.

Ray leaves to cherish his memory his granddaughter, Jaycee Busby of the home; and his children and stepchildren, Janine Owens of Raytown, Mo., Reynette Rhodes of Greenville, Craig Busby of Easley, Dawn Tollison of Pickens, April Kelley of Greenwood, Judith Holcombe of Liberty and Chance Landers of Liberty.

He was the proud grandfather of 11 beautiful grandchildren, Trey, Lexie, Gavin, Ethan, Lily, Josh, Jacob, Chase, Jade, Breanna and Evelyn. He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Powell of Jacksonville, Fla.

In addition to his beloved wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his older brother, Morris Busby; his two younger sisters, Angerlene Bingham and Jean Ritchey; and a precious granddaughter, Mary Ellison Rhodes.

Visitation will be held from noon-1 p.m. Feb. 25 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Greenville Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to those who have offered prayers, love, and support during this time.

Flowers will be accepted.

 

ELIZABETH ‘LIBBY’ LEWIS MEDLIN

PICKENS — To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die.

Elizabeth “Libby” Lewis Medlin’s, time to be born was Feb. 26, 1953 in Greenville, to Clifford “Alex” and Edith Lewis. She entered into the joy of the Lord on Feb. 15, 2026, at the age of 72.

A graduate of Pickens High School, and she retired from Danfoss Manufacturing of Easley.

Libby married the love of her life, Danny Medlin on Aug. 1, 1989. They had a wonderful married life until the time of his passing in 2020.

In spite of being diagnosed with MS in her mid-thirties, she never let it define her as a person. She had an indomitable spirit.

She accepted the Lord in her childhood and was a longtime and faithful member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pickens, where she taught adult Sunday school and Disciple Bible Study. She also loved First Methodist Church United of Gatlinburg and Oolenoy Baptist Church of Pumpkintown.

In addition to her parents, Libby was preceded in death by her husband, Danny Medlin; and two brothers, Paul and Mark Lewis.

She is survived by her three sisters, Katherine Keith of Massachusetts, Jacqueline Beavers of Easley and Sandra Thomas of Pumpkintown, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

A memorial service was held at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home in Pickens on Feb. 19. A private burial will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank her Hospice of the Foothills care team, who have been the absolute best to her. A special thanks to nurse Toby and her aid, Frances.

Memorials may be made to National MS Society: P.O. Box 91891, Washington, D.C. 20090-1891.

 

DAVID ALLEN STEINSEIFER

EASLEY — David Allen Steinseifer, 64, loving husband of 40 years to JoAnn Steinseifer, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born on Jan. 30, 1962, in Fort Lee, Va., David was the beloved son of the late Robert Steinseifer and Lois Bellamy Andrews. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, a role that reflected his sense of duty and honor. David was a devoted and loving father and grandfather who cherished the time he spent with his family. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved cat, Daisey, as well as his granddog, Morty, and grandcat, Perstephany, who brought him great joy and companionship.

Survivors include his wife, JoAnn Steinseifer of the home; son, Stanley Hooper (Erica) of Simpsonville; daughter, Amanda Steinseifer (Bradly) of Easley; grandchildren, Nati, Pat, Kat, Lucas, Otilia, Aurelio, Luna and Cipriano; sister, Brenda Austin (Noel); and nephew, D.J. Martin. The family would like to extend a special thank you to their bonus son, Aaron Gillispie.

Mr. Steinseifer was predeceased by his parents.

Memorial services were held on Feb. 21 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in David’s honor may be made to SPCA International by visiting spcai.org/donate.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Steinseifer family.

 

JAMES LEE MCCALL

SIX MILE — Mr. James Lee McCall, 55, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Jan. 14, 1971, in Hendersonville, N.C., James was the beloved son of the late Leroy McCall and Carolyn Frances Harris, and the cherished stepson of Patricia Duncan of Six Mile.

He was a man of strong faith who loved the Lord and found great joy in the presence of his family and friends. James loved working on his truck and spending time outdoors working in the yard; he took great pride in his lawn care. He also enjoyed playing his video games. Most of all and most importantly, he enjoyed being with his family and cherished every moment spent with his grandbabies.

In addition to his loving stepmother, James is survived by his siblings, Rosia Everett of Six Mile, Amanda Toney of Clemson, Nathan Neal (Zaran Metts) of Easley, Hannah Neal of Six Mile, Randall Duncan of Powhatan, Va., Stephanie Woodard (Tom) of Savannah, Ga., and Avery Duncan III (Tracey) of Suwanee, Ga.

He also leaves behind his beloved nieces and nephews, Tony Roberts (Kaylee Cox), Sheila Roberts-Brawner (Matthew Klink), Hailey Toney and Brayden Toney; and a treasured grand-niece, Ryeitt Klink. Cherished nieces and nephews continued are Madelynn Woodard, Ensign David Woodard of the United States Navy, Avery Duncan IV, Levi Duncan, Nicholas Duncan, Camden Duncan, Micah Duncan and along. James held each of them close to his heart and was proud of the family he loved so dearly.

Visitation will be held from noon-1 p.m. Feb. 26  in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow at 1 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Mountain View Baptist Church cemetery in Six Mile.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made in James’ honor to a charity of one’s choice.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the McCall family.

GREGG FINLEY

EASLEY — Charles “Gregg” Finley, 71, of Easley, was called to his eternal home on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.

The son of the late Pat and Charles Finley, Gregg loved Jesus, and that love overflowed into every area of his life. He was devoted to his family, a passionate sports enthusiast and a loyal fan of the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Throughout his life, he faithfully served and shared his faith through many avenues — as a pastor, a coach, in sports radio and through various business endeavors.

No matter the platform, Gregg never missed an opportunity to share the good news of the gospel with those around him. Gregg was full of joy, and his spirit was contagious to everyone blessed enough to know him.

Surviving are children, Billy (Tami) Finley, Alston (Aaron) Mark, BreAnna Finley, Kasey (Justin) Owens; eight grandchildren, Eliza (Austin) Morgan, Weston Finley, Brody Duncan, Tillan Duncan, Ella Pate Duncan, Zemi Mark, Healey Owens, Stoney Owens; and a great-granddaughter, Mallory Blake Morgan. Gregg is also survived by a sister, Deedi (David) Barnette and his three nephews; along with many beloved cousins and friends.

His life will be celebrated at 3 p.m. Feb. 25 at St. Andrew Methodist Church. The family will receive friends at St. Andrew from 1:30-2:30 p.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pickens County Meals on Wheels, 349 Edgemont Ave., Liberty, SC 29657. The family will reside in their respective homes.

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

 

KATHY ASHMORE

PICKENS — Kathy Ashmore, 67, loving wife of 23 years to John Ashmore, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Kathy was born on Oct. 6, 1958, in Six Mile. She dedicated many years of faithful service before retiring from St. Jude Medical, where she was known for her strong work ethic and commitment.

Survivors include her husband, John Ashmore of the home; children, Larry Entrekin of Wahalla, Scott Roberts of Seneca, Jonathan Anderson of Travelers Rest, Quintin Anderson of Pickens and Gracie Ashmore of Anderson; and grandchildren, Jada Robinson, Jacob Roberts, Emma Morgan, Jalen Anderson and Luna Ashmore (Stover).

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Ashmore family.

 

MRS. LORETTA DOVER

EASLEY — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Loretta Hodges Dover, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and teacher, who departed this life peacefully on Feb. 19, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on Dec. 13, 1941, in Tennille, Ga., she was the wife of Kenneth Dover and a daughter of the late Carl “C.Y.” and Elizabeth Gunby Hodges.

She lived a rich and fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and a passion for education.

Mrs. Dover dedicated more than 35 years to teaching in the School District of Pickens County, where she predominantly influenced young minds at Liberty Middle School and Liberty Elementary School.

Her impact on her students was profound, as she nurtured a love of learning and inspired countless children throughout her career.

A faithful member of Arial Baptist Church, her generous spirit and unwavering faith touched all who knew her. She enjoyed reading and was an avid puzzler, often seen with a book in hand or engaging in her favorite pastime, which reflected her love for knowledge and challenge.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her loving sons, Kenny Dover (Lisa) and Brad Dover (Kayla); her sister, Luella Sargent (Mike); and her brother, Charles Hodges (Elizabeth). Also surviving are four grandchildren, Caleb Dover, Wyatt Dover (Jostlyn), Logan Dover and Grayson Dover.

Each of them carries forward the values she instilled and the love she shared throughout her life.

Funeral services to celebrate Mrs. Dover’s life were conducted on Feb. 22 at Arial Baptist Church. She was laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

As we gather to remember Loretta, let us rejoice in the cherished memories we’ve created with her and the indelible mark she has left on our lives. Her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy will continue through the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Arial Baptist Church, 618 Rice Road, Easley SC 29640.

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