THOMAS JULIAN ‘TOM’ ELLER

 COLORADO SPRINGS, CO. — Thomas Julian “Tom” Eller peacefully slipped the surly bonds of earth on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, with his wife, Anne, by his side. He dedicated his life to Christ, his family, country, and the advancement of astronautics.

Surviving Tom are his wife of 63 years, Anne Lafitte Eller; children Julie Lafitte (Steve), Elizabeth Byerly (Steve) and Robert (Kristen); grandchildren Barrett (Grace), Connor (Deena), Anna Katherine and Jeremiah; and great-grandchildren, Luna and Max. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Robert and Frances Elizabeth Greer Eller, and his sister, Sue Eller Conn.

Raised in Pickens, Tom graduated fourth in the USAFA Class of 1961. His 20-year active-duty career was defined by excellence, including 3,600 flying hours and combatservice in Vietnam. His bravery earned him two Distinguished Flying Crosses, seven Air Medals, and the Airman’s Medal for heroism. Tom was an active member of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society and Order of Daedalians.

Tom earned a master’s from Purdue and a PhD from the University of Texas. He returned to the Academy to serve in the Department of Astronautics and Computer Science, later serving as a civilian professor. His contributions to the field included co-inventing the GPS Magnetic Momentum Dumping System, a technology still used in space, defense and our daily lives.

A pillar of the Association of Graduates (AOG), serving on the founding committee in 1966 and later as President from 1979–1983. His vision led to the creation of Doolittle Hall and the Class Wall. He served his classmates faithfully as Class Secretary for 45 years and as Class President from 2006 onward. He was the first USAFA graduate to serve on the Board of Trustees of the Falcon Foundation, where he served until his death and honored as a Distinguished Graduate by the AOG. His civilian career included leadership roles at Lockheed Martin, Kaman Sciences and Titan Technologies.

Tom was a devoted elder at First Presbyterian Church of Colorado Springs and a board member of the Fine Arts Center. An adventurous cook and gardener, he was known for his delicious tamales and beautiful irises. Above all, he leaves behind a legacy of integrity and love for his family.

The family thanks the team from Abode Hospice and caregivers Reika, Lucy and Tara for their support.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held at USAFA on March 17, at 11:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at First Presbyterian Church at 1:30 p.m.

To receive an Eller event-specific USAFA base access link go to our request form, cognitoforms.com/EllerFamilyGravesideAccess/Request.

If you wish, memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church Missions, rock.firstprescos.org/give-now or 219 E Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, ref. Egypt Missions in Comment section, OR Falcon Foundation Scholarships, falconfoundation.org/donate, 3116 Academy Drive USAF Academy, CO 80840, ref. Thomas J. Eller in special notes section.

DAN SATTERFIELD

LIBERTY — Daniel Anthony Satterfield, 63, of Liberty, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. Born on March 14, 1962, in Pickens, he was a son Elizabeth Kay Satterfield and the late J.C. Satterfield.

He was a cherished husband, father, son and brother.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife Crystal Satterfield; daughter, Aubrey Satterfield; son Tyler Satterfield; his brother, J.C. Satterfield, Jr. (Gwen); three stepdaughters, Ansley Hayes, Kelsey Hayes and McKinley Smith; also surviving are five grandchildren, Carter, Kamden, Keylen, Kyla and Laikyn.

Dan was a proud United States Army veteran, and his commitment to service extended into his civilian life as the owner and operator of Dan’s Tree Service. For many years, he took great pride in his work, helping others with his expertise and dedication to forestry. He had a passion for sharing stories from history, often tuning in to the History Channel, and indulging in his favorite treat, ice cream. His warm spirit and easygoing nature made him a friend to many.

To honor Dan’s memory, a memorial service was held on March 2, at East Side Baptist Church.

In this difficult time, we ask for your thoughts and prayers for his family. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kindness and joy.

In lieu of flowers memorials in Dan’s honor may be made to a local Veterans Charity.  To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

CONSTANCE SWAILS THIBODEAU

EASLEY — Constance Swails Thibodeau, of Easley, passed away on Feb. 23, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born on Dec. 28, 1944, in Andrews, she was the daughter of the late William Taylor Swails and Mary Rose Swails.

Constance was a poet, writer and avid gardener. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing and served as a nursing instructor. Throughout her life, she was dedicated to caring for others—as an Army veteran, addictions counselor, and Boy Scouts of America Explorer Leader. In her free time, she enjoyed crafting and cross-stitching. Above all, Constance was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose nurturing spirit touched all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Peter Allan Thibodeau; her children, Matthew Aaron Thibodeau and Heather T. Brownlee (Travis); her grandchildren, Kenadie Saylors (Casey), Poppy Brownlee and Mattie Brownlee; and her great-grandchild, Taytum Saylors. Additionally, she is survived by her brothers, William Taylor Swails III and Steve Swails; and sister, Carolyn Gamble.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Frankie Rose “Sally” Tisdale.

A graveside service was held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on March 2.

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

 

MILDRED ‘MICK’ MERCK PELFREY

LIBERTY — Our beloved mother Mildred “Mick” Merck Pelfrey, 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at her home. She was predeceased by her husband of almost 70 years, Frank Pelfrey; her parents, Jule and Retta Merck of Norris; her brother, Edward Merck and sister, Frances Merck Sanders, both of Norris.

She was the mother of three daughters, Diane Pelfrey Hunter of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Tammy Pelfrey Owens (Butch) and Gina Pelfrey, RN, both of Easley. She was affectionately known as “Nana” to three grandchildren, Danielle Pelfrey McIntire, Ashley Owen (Nick) and Taylor Owens (Brittany), along with six precious great-grands, Jude, Rowan, Knox, Violet, Anna James and Eliza.

Mildred is also survived by her precious sisters-in-law, Betty Merck of Norris and Mary Lou Pelfrey Baumgarner (Bruce) of Williston, as well as numerous special nieces and nephews.

She was a member of Jones Avenue Baptist Church in Easley where she was a member of the CW Lyle-Golden Circle Sunday School class. Mildred and Frank were faithful members of the Young at Heart seniors group prior to their declining health.

With gratitude and appreciation, the family would like to thank all of the amazing members of VIA Healthcare of the Upstate for the loving and gentle care they provided to our parents over the course of the past several years.

Special thanks to their little sis, Leesa Brothers, CNA, Selena, and RN, Rachel as with their loving support and dedication, they were able to give their mother the very best of care in the peacefulness of her own home.

In addition, special thanks to her loving nurses, Sara and Jeremy, with VIA. Special individuals (you know who you are) of The Retreat, Waterstone on Augusta and Clemson Downs, thank you for your love and for making Nana your favorite.

“Mama, you were the best mother three daughters could ever ask for. We always knew we were loved and we were always taken care of.  God was first in our home and you taught us the difference between right and wrong. We will miss your humor, your wonderful meals, and your love.  We will be eternally grateful for the person you were and helped us to become. Rest peacefully until we see you again.”

Visitation will be held on March 5, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. A private committal will take place at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Pelfrey family.

WANDA ‘WENDY’ ROPER

PICKENS — Wanda “Wendy” Roper, 71, loving wife of 40 years to Daniel “Danny” Roper, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Born on Jan. 31, 1955, in Rockingham, N.C., Wendy was the beloved daughter of William “Bill” Reaves of Easley and the late Barbara Jones Reaves. She was a devoted daughter, mother, and grandmother whose greatest joy in life was her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, who brought endless pride and happiness to her heart. Wendy found great pleasure in shopping for those she loved, always eager to brighten their days with thoughtful gifts and simple acts of kindness.

Wendy was adventurous in spirit and strong in character, believing deeply in the value of hard work and perseverance. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, finding peace and comfort in nature’s beauty. Above all, Wendy’s faith was the foundation of her life. She loved the Lord with all her heart, and her unwavering faith guided her, strengthened her, and was evident in the way she loved and cared for others. Her warmth, generosity, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her husband and father, Wendy is survived by her son, Brad Williams (Jodi) of Travelers Rest; grandchildren, Walker, Cameron, Emma Cate and Hylon; and siblings, Bobbie Foster of Pelzer, Dawn Reaves of Lyman and Deborah McKenzie of Mauldin.

In addition to her mother, Mrs. Roper was predeceased by her brother, Billy Reaves.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, from 2 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. in the mausoleum at Graceland East Memorial Park in Simpsonville with a graveside service to follow at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Wendy’s honor may be made to Hospice of the Upstate by mailing 1835 Rogers Rd, Anderson, SC 29621 or by visiting their website at hospiceoftheupstate.com.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Roper family.

HELEN ANN ‘COOKIE’ ROSS

PICKENS — Helen Ann “Cookie” Ross, left this world peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at the age of 68. Born in Easley, she was the widow of Roger Ross and a daughter of the late Robert and Diana Volanick James.

Helen dedicated much of her life to working as a custodian for Easley First Baptist Church, a role that reflected her deep commitment to her community and her faith. Prior to that she had worked at Mayfair Mills for many years. More than her work, Helen cherished her family above all. She is survived by her loving daughters who will carry on her legacy of love and kindness, Shannon Franklin (Jason) and Tiffany Ross (Frankie Welborn); and her step-sons, Alan Ross and Travis Ross. She will be missed mostly by her 10 loving grandchildren, Jasmine(Isaiah), Amelia, Alora, Clayton, Rosalee, Idalis, Elijah(Autum), Taytham, Tamryn and Elise; and three great-grandchildren, Mila, Salem and Wyatt Mark. She also leaves behind her cherished siblings; sisters, Betty Yearwood and Myrtle Guidone; and brothers, Dennis James (Ruth), Carl “Chookie” James and Lester James (Sugie), all of whom will miss her dearly.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a step-son, Roger Mark Ross; two sisters, Eva Catherine and Lois Geneva James; and a brother Robert “Buster” James.

Helen had a zest for life that radiated in everything she did. She found joy in the simple pleasures-spending sunny days fishing, hunting for treasures at thrift stores, and nurturing her passion for butterflies. Her spirit was an inspiration, filled with warmth and laughter, and her love for her grandchildren was boundless. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will forever flutter like a butterfly in our hearts.

Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services libertymortuary.com

 

MAY BELLE JOHNSON HEADLEY

PICKENS — May Belle Headley, 77, of Pickens, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Born on June 5, 1948, in White Plains, Ala., she was the beloved daughter of Bert Vernace Johnson and Doris Frances Griscom Johnson.

May was an avid reader who could often be found with a book in hand, always eager to learn something new or escape into a good story. Her love for animals was boundless, and she cared deeply for creatures of all kinds.

She was a proud member of the Fort Prince George Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, where she honored her heritage and formed meaningful friendships.

May’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children, Reba Kruse (Derrick), Teresa Efant (Rodney Pearce) and Jonathan Headley (Stephanie). She was a loving grandmother to Sophia and Ronin Kruse and Samson, Azelie, Stella Marie and Bernadette Headley. She is also survived by her siblings, Lee Johnson (Diana), David Johnson, Frank Johnson and Naomi Johnson; along with her nieces, Tara and Kristi; and nephews, Erik and Sean.

May will be remembered for her outgoing nature, she never met a stranger, and her sense of humor. Her legacy lives on in the kindness she shared so freely.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a conservation agency of your choice in honor of May’s lifelong love for animals and the natural world.

Palmetto Cremation Servies is assisting the family with their arrangements.

 

INDIA STAR RACKLEY

PICKENS — India Star Rackley, 54, passed away peacefully, after losing her month long battle with cancer on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, at Emory Hospital.

Born on Oct. 3, 1971, in Pickens County, India was the beloved daughter of Jamie L. Rackley and Evelyn McWhorter Rackley. She faithfully served her community with honor and dedication throughout her career in law enforcement. India was a proud member of the Patriot Guard, where she held the distinguished role of Assistant State Captain. She also served with the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office as a School Resource Officer at AR Lewis Opportunity School, where she made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. In addition, she served at the Pickens County Detention Center, carrying out her duties with professionalism, compassion and unwavering commitment to others.

Outside of her career, India embraced life with a deep love for the outdoors. She enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding her motorcycle, finding peace and freedom in each. She also had a passion for music and loved playing the guitar and singing, sharing her talent and joy with those around her.

In addition to her parents, India is survived by her loving partner, Tina Goldsmith; her sister, Jennifer Green; her aunt, Renee McClain; her ex-husband, Larry Brackett; her niece, Brianna Green; her nephew, Jared Green; her cousin, Heather Hughes (Justin) and their son, River; her children-in-love, Gracie Lusk, Grady Lusk and Brandon Lusk; and her beloved cats, Ms. Kitty and Seal.

India was preceded in death by her grandparents, Walter and Wilma McWhorter and Eddie Lee and Elizabeth Rackley; and her uncle, Danny McClain.

A memorial service was held on Feb. 28, in the sanctuary of Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in India’s honor can be made to The Pickens County Sheriffs Office Foundation by visiting their website at pickenssheriff.com or by calling 864-898-5500.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Rackley family.

 

BRANDY DUDLEY

EASLEY — Mrs. Brandy Lusk Dudley, 47, wife of Anthony Garland “Buck” Dudley, passed away Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, Brandy was the daughter of Mira Owens Edens of Fair Play, and the late Ronald Lusk.

She was a graduate of West Oak High School and was the office manager for Buddy’s Towing and Recovery. She was of the Baptist faith.
Brandy was a hard worker and loved her family. If she wasn’t working or at home, she was doing what she loved most, spending time with her family. She was a sweet soul that will live on in the hearts of her family and all that knew her.

Surviving, in addition to her husband of 31 years, and her mother, are her two sons, Justin Dudley (Hannah) of Myrtle Beach and Tyler Dudley of Easley; her two daughters, Savannah D. Breland (Rob) of Townville and Ashley D. Dorsey (Peter) of Long Creek; her brother, Ronald Lusk (Tiffany) of Liberty; and her four grandchildren.
A celebration of Brandy’s life were held on Feb. 26, at the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, Easley.

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

 

BARRY ALLEN DAY ‘ALLEN’

PICKENS — Barry Allen Day, 70, loving husband of 44 years to Margaret Chapman Day went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, at McCall Hospice House, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Jan. 4, 1956, in Pickens County. Allen was the beloved son of the late Steve Frank Day Jr. and Barbara Doris Day. He was a faithful member of Holly Springs Baptist Church, where his presence and fellowship were a meaningful part of his life. Allen was a devoted family man who cherished the time he spent with those he loved most.

Allen had a deep passion for firearms and was a proud gun enthusiast. He was also dedicated to his community through his work and service as a coach with the local recreation department, where he made a lasting impact on the lives of many young people. In his leisure time, Allen enjoyed watching sports, especially alongside his brother Tony and his best friend, Mike Chapman. He will be remembered for his strong character, his love of family, and the many friendships he treasured throughout his life.

Allen is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Margaret Chapman Day. He leaves behind his cherished children, Jennifer Gilmore (Brian) of Simpsonville and Steven Day (Candace) of Pickens. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Nic, Aubrey, Aurora, Ava, Colt, Ruby, Grady and Drake, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

He is also survived by his beloved nieces, Ashbie Day and Krista Smith (Will), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

In addition to his parents, Allen is predeceased by a grandchild Steven Elais Day.

The family will hold a Memorial Service at 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. on March 14, at Holly Springs Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart for Honduras at Life Church 199 Thomas Mill Rd Easley, SC 29640.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Day family.

 

MICHAEL WAYNE ‘MIKE’ WOOD

PELZER — Michael Wayne Wood “Mike”, 78, of Pelzer, passed away on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026 at Aiken Rehab and Healthcare Center. He was the beloved son of the late William E. Wood and Catherine Hix Wood.

Born on Aug. 10, 1947, in Spartanburg, Mike was a devoted man of faith, family, and fellowship. He was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Clemson Tigers football, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer them on and proudly support his favorite teams. Mike was also a passionate gun collector and took great pride in his collection.

Known for his wonderful sense of humor, Mike had a special gift for making those around him smile and laugh. His presence brought joy to family, friends, and all who knew him. He was a faithful member of Fair Heights Baptist Church in Greenville, where he deeply valued his church family, fellowship, and his relationship with the Lord.

Mike is survived by his loving children, Missy Roper (Dale) of Liberty, Tommy Wood of Anderson, Mark Wood of Anderson, Catrina Woodard of Tennessee and Jennifer Wood of Greenville. He was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren and was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

He is also survived by his best friend, Ken Parker of Greenville, whose friendship meant so much to him.

Flowers will be accepted.

A graveside service was held on Feb. 28.

Mountain View Funeral Home is assisting the Wood Family.

 

DORIS L. FRANKLIN

SIX MILE — Doris L. Franklin, 60, loving wife of 40 years to Tim Franklin, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, at Oconee Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her family.

Born on Oct. 20, 1965, in Oconee County, Doris was the beloved daughter of the late James Potts and Ethel Potts. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother and a proud grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her family. Her love for them was unwavering, and she found her greatest joy in being surrounded by those she held dear.

Doris was known for her warm and welcoming spirit. She was a friend to everyone she met and truly never met a stranger. Her kind heart, gentle nature, and compassionate soul left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She found great purpose in her work as a certified nursing assistant, where she faithfully cared for others with dignity, patience, and genuine compassion. Serving others was not just her profession but her calling, and she took pride in making a difference in the lives of those entrusted to her care.

Doris will be remembered for her selflessness, her love for her family, and the kindness she so freely shared with the world.

Survivors include her husband, Tim Franklin of the home; sons, Cody Franklin (Danielle) and Cameron Franklin (Jessica), both of Six Mile; grandchildren, D.J., Cory, Camden, Aubree and Jayce; great-grandchild, Baylor; brother, Tommy Potts (Tammy); sister, Joyce Potts; and numerous other kinfolk.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Franklin was predeceased by her brother, Billy Potts.

Visitation will be held on March 7, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Franklin family.

 

TERESA DIANE BRANNAN

EASLEY — Lovingly known as Diane Brannan, a devoted daughter, mother, Nana, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Feb. 24, with her family by her side at the age of 66. She was listening to the song, What a Friend We Have in Jesus. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, “Tommy” (Thomas Earl Brannan), with whom she shared over 45 years of marriage- filled with vulnerability, dedication, resilience and a life of choosing love daily.

Born to Gene and Ruth White, Diane grew up in a large, close-knit family that shaped her generous spirit and quick wit. She was one of 11 siblings, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She is survived by her siblings, Ann Bryant (Bud), Pat Cole (Jerry), Elaine Ellis (Gary) and Terry White. She is reunited in passing with Larry White, Bobby White (Katherine), Steve White, Joyce White, Wayne White and Karen Porter (Charlie). Her family remembers her as someone who could brighten any room with her humor, dancing, and her unwavering love. Diane loved reminiscing about the days of riding on the church bus that her dad drove, her mom’s delicious biscuits, and many hilarious stories with siblings.

Diane was the proud mother of two children, Tasha Gilstrap and her husband, Brian and T.J. Brannan and his wife, Nora. Her greatest joy came from being “Nana” to her four grandchildren; Luke and Julie, children of Tasha and Brian and Aidan and William, children of T.J. and Nora. She adored them beyond measure and cherished every moment spent watching them grow.

Diane enjoyed seasonally making peanut butter balls, despite hating the taste of peanut butter. She took pride in taking excellent care of the people in her world and a wonderful steward of all she earned. She loved crossword puzzles, the Price is Right, Big Brother each summer and long phone conversations. She loved singing with her sisters and watching the birds outside her doors. Diane had a zest and passion for life that was unmatched.

Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the family she nurtured with such care. The family takes comfort in knowing she is at peace and reunited with those who went before her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Blood Cancer United (Formerly known as Leukemia and Lymphoma Society). bloodcancerunited.org/

A Celebration of Life will be announced for Summer of 2026. Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Brannan family.

 

LELAND YATES

LIBERTY — Leland Yates, 17, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.

Born on Sept. 29, 2008, in Greenville, Leland was the beloved son of Eulas Yates and Elisha Mann Yates. Though his time here was far too short, Leland made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He had a passion for playing Call of Duty, spending time fishing and making memories with his friends. He especially enjoyed riding dirt bikes where his competitive spirit and sense of fun shined through.

Leland was known for his kind and selfless heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to family and friends, never hesitating to show up when someone needed him. He had a special gift for listening and offering comfort, making others feel valued and understood. His caring nature, loyalty, and genuine love for those around him will be remembered and cherished forever.

In addition to his parents, Leland is survived by his girlfriend, Kaylee Reece; sisters, Bella Yates and Kassidy Seay; nana, Deborah Mann; grandmother, Mama Sandy; aunts and uncles, Scotty Mann (Kim), Clifton Yates (Leslie), Bandetta Cehen (Tim) and Kerry Cehen (Elise); and numerous cousins.

Mr. Yates was predeceased by his grandparents, Martha McGill Bishop, Mark Bishop and Derrill Mann; great-grandmother, Kascenia Underwood; and cousin, Story Yates.

Funeral services were held on Feb. 27, at the sanctuary of Pickens Church of God. Burial took place following the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Yates family