LORETTA J. BURGESS

EASLEY — Loretta J. Burgess of Easley, and formerly of Vero Beach, Fla.; passed away on March 29, 2026, at the age of 95.

Born on Feb. 13, 1931, in Decatur, Ill., she was the daughter of Frances and Emerson Shaner. Loretta was an active member of Easley First United Methodist Church for many years and enjoyed helping in the community wherever she was needed.

Hiking in the mountains was one of her great passions, as well as travel, and in her earlier years she especially enjoyed RV camping and motorcycling all around the United States with her late husband, Willard.

Loretta is survived by her daughters, Patricia Dean and Sandra Delorenzo; granddaughter, Alissa Sugrim; and great-grandchildren, Will Sugrim, Ben Sugrim and Cate Sugrim.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willard B. Burgess, and her brother, Edwin Shaner.

Inurnment was held on April 10 at Hillcrest Memorial Park with family and friends in attendance.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the family.

 

HAROLD EDENS  ‘PUFF’ BOWIE

PICKENS — Harold Edens “Puff” Bowie, 73, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on July 3, 1952, in Pickens County, Harold was the beloved son of the late Lee Albert Bowie and Dewey Louise Bowie-Gillespie. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he carried a spirit of service and dedication throughout his life. Harold found great peace in the simple joys of nature, especially while fishing along the banks of the Eastatoe River and Laurel and Hardy Fishing Lakes, places he dearly loved. He also cherished time spent at the Holly Springs Country Store, where he enjoyed fellowship and the comfort of familiar faces. Above all, Harold loved his family deeply, and the time he shared with them was his greatest treasure.

Harold is survived by his children, Toby Barnett (Kaitlyn), Scott Bowie (Nicole), Greg Bryant and Michelle Franco, all of Pickens; grandchildren, Joshua, Alexus, Dillon, Daniel, Alyssa, Aaron and Alicia; great-grandson, Ivan; brothers, Leonard Lee Bowie (Kathy) and Henry Alvin Bowie (Marie); in-laws, Vickie Bowie of Liberty and Evelyn Bowie of Pickens; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Harold was predeceased by his wife, Shelby Bowie; stepfather, B.C. Gillespie; brothers, Allen Eugene Bowie and Stanley Ray Bowie; and sister, Vicki Mae Bowie.

The family will hold a memorial service to honor Harold’s life at 3 p.m. April 19 in the sanctuary of New Hope Baptist Church in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bowie family.

 

JOYCE H. GILLESPIE

LIBERTY — Joyce H. Gillespie, 81, loving wife of the late Graham Gillespie, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born on Feb. 22, 1945, in Six Mile, Joyce was the cherished daughter of the late Samuel I. Henderson and Gertrude Skelton Henderson. A woman of the Baptist faith, she lived a life grounded in quiet devotion and simple joys. Joyce found great pleasure in reading and expressed her creativity through crafts, especially knitting, crocheting and quilting, skills that reflected both her patience and her love for creating something meaningful by hand. She was a proud member of the Yak and Yarn group, where she shared her talents and fellowship with others who held similar passions.

Joyce’s beloved little dog, Rosie, brought her immense comfort and happiness. She cared deeply for her faithful companion and found peace in knowing her furry friend would always be looked after.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Kristal Doherty and husband Thomas Jr. of Pickens; her son, Scott Gillespie and wife Cynthia of Liberty; her grandchildren, Thomas Doherty III and fiancé Waverly, Ryan Doherty, Erin Doherty Proffitt and husband Ryan, Katelyn Turner, Avery Gillespie and Jaylie Gillespie; great-grandchildren, Ellie, Nate and Juliette; sister, Carol Henderson Walsh of Easley; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Henderson; sister-in-law, Frances Henderson; and brother-in-law, Bill Walsh.

Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. April 18 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. Burial will take place following the service at the Flat Rock Baptist Church cemetery in Liberty.

Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the Gillespie family.

 

SHERREE SIMMONS ROBINSON

PICKENS — Sherree Simmons Robinson, 71, loving wife of 52 years to Victor Robinson, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on Dec. 27, 1954, in Greenville, Sherree was the cherished daughter of the late Lendon Simmons and Patricia Childs Simmons. A woman of deep and abiding faith, she was a devoted member of Red Hill Baptist Church in Pickens.

Sherree’s life was centered around her family, whom she loved dearly, especially her beloved grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She treasured capturing life’s special moments through family photographs, preserving memories that will be cherished for generations. She shared a deep and loving bond with her husband, whom she adored.

Known for her warm and affectionate nature, Sherree was a “hugger” who never met a stranger and made everyone feel welcome. She also had a sweet tooth, with a special love for chocolate. Her kind spirit, loving heart and joyful presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sherree is survived by her husband, Victor Robinson of the home; children, Brian Robinson (Jessica) of Easley, Jason Robinson (Marie) of Greenville and Rebecca Pilgrim (Brent) of Six Mile; grandchildren, Chase (Hannah), Cameron, Nehemiah, Bethany, Cora and Sadie; siblings, Richard Simmons (Georgia), Ronald Simmons (Elaine), Roger Simmons (Debbie) and Sharon Nealy (John); and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Randall Simmons.

A funeral service was held on April 10 in the sanctuary of Red Hill Baptist Church. A private family burial was held.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Robinson family.

 

DANNY W. KING

EASLEY — Danny W. King, 81, loving husband of 60 years to Linda Cooper King, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Baptist Easley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on Jan. 9, 1945, in Kings Mountain, N.C., Danny was the beloved son of the late John H. King Sr. and Grace Parris King. A man of strong faith, he was a devoted member of Carmel Presbyterian Church in Liberty.

Danny had a heart for service and mentorship, dedicating many years as a Cub Scout leader, where he positively impacted the lives of countless young people. He had a deep love for music and found great joy in playing the guitar. In the kitchen, he was known as an avid and talented cook, always happy to prepare meals for those he loved.

He cherished the outdoors and embraced every opportunity to spend time in nature. Above all, Danny was a devoted family man who was deeply involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories and traditions. His kindness and guidance extended beyond his own family, as he served as a father figure and role model to many within his community.

Danny earned his degree from the University of Tampa and built a dedicated career in construction, working with Suit Construction, Davis Mechanical and Construction Control. His work took him across many places, allowing him to travel extensively throughout his career.

He will be remembered for his generosity, his steady presence and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Cooper King of the home; sons, Larry King (Melody) and Terry King (Crystal), both of Easley; grandchildren, Justin (Lauren), Nolan and Dylan; great-grandson, Kash Harvey; brother, John H. King Jr. (Susan) of Greenwood; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Mr. King was predeceased by his brothers, Jim King and Jerry King.

The family will hold a memorial service to honor Danny’s life at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the King family.

 

STEPHEN HAL ‘STEVIE’ RAMEY II

EASLEY — Stephen Hal “Stevie” Ramey II, 47, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 6, 2026, at his home.

Born on Jan. 16, 1979, in Easley, Stevie was the beloved son of Steve Ramey and Teresa Andrews Lewis. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially roller skating and spending time tubing on the water. Stevie had a deep love for the outdoors, often enjoying hiking and time along the rivers.

Above all, he cherished his family. His children and grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he loved them deeply. Stevie was a complex soul — he could be hard to understand at times, but those who were fortunate enough to be loved by him knew that his love was genuine, unwavering and given with his whole heart.

In addition to his parents, Stevie is survived by his fiancé, Dee Dee Follett; children, Deandra Ramey of Duncan, Ariz., Chloe Follett of Anderson and Patrick Strickland of Easley; grandchildren, Wyatt and Waylon; brother, Shane Lewis of Greenville; and beloved fur baby and companion, Dixie.

The family will hold a memorial service to honor Stevie’s life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Stevie’s honor may be made to the Pickens County Animal Shelter, 193 County Farm Road, Pickens, SC 29671.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Ramey family.

 

SHELBY J. FREEMAN

PICKENS — Shelby J. Freeman of Pickens went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from the Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca, after many years of COPD and dementia.

She was born Feb. 29, 1944, in Cateechee, a daughter of the late Lewis Barnwell and Lillie Teat Barnwell.

Shelby loved life and her family. She loved visiting Gatlinburg when she could, as well as going on day trips. She also loved going with her daughter thrifting and shopping. Her biggest joy was singing. Shelby would grab a hairbrush any day and sing her heart out. She was not able to attend church regularly over the past few years, but when she did, she would attend The Church Gathering in Easley, where her grandson, Pastor Chasen Callahan, is the pastor.

Shelby is survived by her husband of 26 years, Tommy Freeman; her daughter, Lynn Callahan (Alan), her stepsons, Allen Freeman (Angel) and Jeremy Freeman (Grace); and her grandchildren, Rev. Chasen Callahan (Casey), Chance Callahan (Brooke), Austin Freeman, Madison Freeman, Alanna (Tanner) Blyth, Ashlyn (Cody) Young and Alden Freeman.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded death by an infant daughter, Crystal Rollins; her two brothers, Jim Barnwell and Frank Barnwell; and her sisters, Betty Patterson and Sue Entrekin.

Funeral services conducted by Rev. Alan Callahan, Pastor Chasen Callahan and Chance Callahan were held April 13 at The Church Gathering. Burial followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Shelbys memory to Cottingham Hospice Care Facility, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca SC 29672.

A special thank you to Liberty Mortuary for being so compassionate in this tender time for our family.

You may share memories and send condolences to the family by visiting libertymortuary.com.

 

ELAINE HAYES WALDROP

PICKENS — Elaine Hayes Waldrop, 96, of Pickens, went to her Heavenly home on April 9, 2026.

Born in Pickens, she was the daughter of the late James Manley Hayes and Lillie Keith Hayes. She was a devoted member of North Side Baptist Church and retired from Singer/Ryobi, where she worked in production. She had a serving heart, and volunteering at the Pickens hospital was one of her biggest joys.

She enjoyed reading, crocheting, quilting, spending time in her yard and making memories with their friends at the lake.

Elaine also loved making memories with her family that they will cherish forever.

Elaine is survived by her beloved husband of 75 years, Guy Ansel Waldrop; daughter, Judith Elaine Erickson (Jim); three granddaughters, Erin Meece (Scott), Kaci Halphen (Paul) and Jeni Melvin (Michael); and six great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her five sisters and three brothers.

A graveside service was held on April 13 at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northside Baptist Church at secure.myvanco.com/L-ZP0P.

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

 

VIRGINIA LOIS  STEWART POWELL

PICKENS — Mrs. Virginia Lois “Bea” Stewart Powell, 94, beloved wife of the late Earl Powell, of Pickens, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Prisma Health Baptist Easley Hospital in Easley.

Born on Jan. 12, 1932, in Pickens County, Virginia was the cherished daughter of the late Avery A. Stewart and Dora Holcombe Stewart. She was a woman who found joy in life’s simple pleasures and was deeply grateful for all she had. Virginia was known for her generous spirit, always willing to share with others, and for her strong and unwavering work ethic.

Her dedication was evident through her many years of employment at LeJuan’s Restaurant and later Auntie Ann’s Restaurant in Pickens, where she formed lasting friendships with both coworkers and customers. Virginia never met a stranger — she loved talking with people and brightening their day. In her quieter moments, she found great happiness tending to her garden, especially nurturing her beautiful flowers.

Virginia is survived by her loving son, Randall T. Powell of Liberty; her granddaughter, Melissa Smith (Brady) of Pickens; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Will, Alex and Matthew Smith. She is also survived by her brother, William Robert Stewart of Sunset, along with many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

In addition to her husband and parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Wanda Powell; her sister, Mary Sue Lesley; and her brother, Charles C. “Bub” Stewart.

Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. April 16 at the Red Hill Baptist Church cemetery in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the Powell family.

 

HAROLD CHASTAIN

EASLEY — Arthur “Harold” Chastain, 91, beloved husband of Frances Fender Chastain, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, he was the son of the late Arthur “Milton” Chastain and Chloe Annie Townes Chastain.

Mr. Chastain was a 1953 graduate of Pickens High School. He worked for Sangamo in Pickens for 33 years and for the Pickens County Administrative Office for 19 years, and was known as “Mr. Fix It.” He enjoyed listening to country music and watching old western TV shows. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956-58. He was a lifelong member of Holly Springs Baptist Church in Pickens.

In addition to his wife, Frances, of 62 years, he is survived by a niece, Vonda Fay Holliday.

Mr. Chastain was predeceased by his parents, a sister, Chloe “Fay” Holliday, and brother-in-law, Kenneth C. Holliday.

A funeral service was held on April 13 in the chapel at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Burial took place at the Holly Springs Baptist Church cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Holly Springs Baptist Church, 3450 Table Rock Road, Pickens, SC 29671.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com.

 

VIRGINIA LOIS STEWART POWELL

PICKENS — Mrs. Virginia Lois “Bea” Stewart Powell, 94, beloved wife of the late Earl Powell, of Pickens, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Prisma Health Baptist Easley Hospital in Easley.

Born on Jan. 12, 1932, in Pickens County, Virginia was the cherished daughter of the late Avery A. Stewart and Dora Holcombe Stewart. She was a woman who found joy in life’s simple pleasures and was deeply grateful for all she had. Virginia was known for her generous spirit, always willing to share with others, and for her strong and unwavering work ethic.

Her dedication was evident through her many years of employment at LeJuan’s Restaurant and later Auntie Ann’s Restaurant in Pickens, where she formed lasting friendships with both coworkers and customers. Virginia never met a stranger — she loved talking with people and brightening their day. In her quieter moments, she found great happiness tending to her garden, especially nurturing her beautiful flowers.

Virginia is survived by her loving son, Randall T. Powell of Liberty; her granddaughter, Melissa Smith (Brady) of Pickens; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Will, Alex and Matthew Smith. She is also survived by her brother, William Robert Stewart of Sunset, along with many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

In addition to her husband and parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Wanda Powell; her sister, Mary Sue Lesley; and her brother, Charles C. “Bub” Stewart.

Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. April 16 at the Red Hill Baptist Church cemetery in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the Powell family.

 

HAROLD CHASTAIN

EASLEY — Arthur “Harold” Chastain, 91, beloved husband of Frances Fender Chastain, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, he was the son of the late Arthur “Milton” Chastain and Chloe Annie Townes Chastain.

Mr. Chastain was a 1953 graduate of Pickens High School. He worked for Sangamo in Pickens for 33 years and for the Pickens County Administrative Office for 19 years, and was known as “Mr. Fix It.” He enjoyed listening to country music and watching old western TV shows. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956-58. He was a lifelong member of Holly Springs Baptist Church in Pickens.

In addition to his wife, Frances, of 62 years, he is survived by a niece, Vonda Fay Holliday.

Mr. Chastain was predeceased by his parents, a sister, Chloe “Fay” Holliday, and brother-in-law, Kenneth C. Holliday.

A funeral service was held on April 13 in the chapel at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown. Burial took place at the Holly Springs Baptist Church cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Holly Springs Baptist Church, 3450 Table Rock Road, Pickens, SC 29671.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com.