VIRGINIA ‘SUE’ RHODES

CENTRAL — Virginia “Sue” Rhodes, 80, of Central, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

Born on July 5, 1944, she was the daughter of the late Ruby Lee Harvey and Clint Evans Crisp.

Ms. Rhodes was a longtime member of Fellowship Community Church, where she faithfully served in the children’s ministry for many years.

She loved spending time with her family and was well known for her delicious homemade biscuits and banana pudding.

She is survived by her daughters, Dottie King, Kathy Harris and Donna Rhodes; as well as eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Ed Crisp and her daughter, Judy Cox.

A visitation for Virginia was held on April 27, at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home, 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens, South Carolina 29671. A funeral service for Virginia was held the same day at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home in the funeral home chapel with a committal service that followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Flowers are accepted or donations may be made to Fellowship Community Church Children’s Ministry fund.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting dillardfunerals.com.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

OLIN D. ‘SNAKE’ MASTERS

PICKENS — Olin D. “Snake” Masters,  90, loving husband to the late Lillie Mae Smith Masters, was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, April 25, 2025, passing peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on Mar. 21, 1935, in Pickens, Olin was the beloved son of the late Millard Masters and Edith Grace Hargrove Masters. He was a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church in Pumpkintown, where his love for the Lord was evident in both word and deed.

A man of deep devotion, Olin lovingly cared for his late wife, Lillie Mae, often expressing his affection by singing to her, a tender reflection of the bond they shared. He served his community with honor as a firefighter for 30 years, and also dedicated 40 years of hard work at Singer/Ryobi.

In his spare time, Olin found joy in the simple pleasures of life, working on cars and nurturing his garden, both of which brought him peace and pride.

More than anything, Olin lived a life that reflected his faith, his love for others, and his unwavering hope. His parting words remain a powerful message to all who knew him: “I have preached my own funeral with my life. I love the Lord, and I love you. Get ready and meet me in heaven, and I love you!”

Survivors include his children, Ronald O. Masters (Debra) of Pickens, Kathy Medlin of Pickens, Marie Burgess (Donald) of Pumpkintown and Shelia Turner (Daniel) of Easley; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews. Olin was the last surviving member of his beloved siblings, marking the closing of a cherished chapter in the Masters family legacy.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Masters was predeceased by his granddaughter, Courtney Turner and grandson-in-law, John Gilstrap.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Hospice of the Upstate for their compassionate care during Olin’s final days. A special expression of gratitude goes to Toby and Gary, whose kindness and attentive care brought comfort and peace to both Olin and his loved ones.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 1, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home with a funeral service to follow at 2 p. m. Burial will follow the service in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Flowers are accepted or memorial donations in Olin’s honor may be made to New Hope Baptist Church General Fund, 108 New Hope Rd, Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Masters family.

 

GENEVIE FOWLER

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Genevie Wilson Fowler, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the Liberty community. She was born on Aug. 19, 1932, in Central, and she left this world peacefully on April 25, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born in Central, she was the widow of William L. “Billy” Fowler and a daughter of the late Edgar and Mattie Elrod Wilson.

She dedicated her life to her family and her work. She spent many years as a skilled seamstress at JP Stevens, where she was well-loved by her coworkers. After retiring, she opened her heart and home to children, providing care and warmth that will always be remembered. Her passion for nurturing and her dedication to the next generation truly illuminated her life.

For over 63 years, she was a devoted member of Calumet Baptist Church, where she worked tirelessly in the nursery for more than 60 years. Her compassion and spirit shone through every child she cared for and every life she touched.

Those left to cherish her memory are two daughters, Lynn Fowler of Liberty and Lisa Stone (Matt) of Easley; a son, Randy Fowler (Kaye) of Liberty; a grandson, Kevin Fowler (Kelli) of Liberty; and two great grandchildren, Kason and Kaylee.

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

Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Fowler were conducted, April 29, at the Liberty Mortuary chapel. She was laid to rest beside her husband at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

EVELYN ‘MONZEL’ ANDERSON

PICKENS — Evelyn “Monzel” Anderson, 88, of Pickens, passed away April 25, 2025, peacefully at home with family by her side. Monzel was born on Nov. 20, 1936, in the Midway Community in a two-room log cabin to Wadie H. and Lois Powell Anderson. She lived her life out in that same community and loved sharing stories about her younger years that were spent there.

Ms. Anderson retired from Stone Manufacturing in Greenville where she worked for more than 40 years. Following her retirement, she was part of the lunchroom staff at East End Elementary for 10 years where she adored her coworkers and loved her job. She loved nothing more than being in the kitchen and being with children, so it was no surprise that she continued to substitute until she was no longer able to work.

She was known for her cooking and inviting anyone she came across to have a seat at her dining room table for supper. She enjoyed working in her yard with her numerous plants and flowers, usually with one of her prized cats or dogs right at her feet. She kept multiple large gardens every summer while she was able and would spend hours upon hours planting, tending and picking. She was a member of Mountain Grove Baptist Church in Pickens but in recent years, attended New Hope Baptist Church in Pumpkintown.

Monzel is survived by brothers, Donnie Anderson (Jean) and Gary Dale Anderson (Sandra) and sister-in-law Nancy Anderson, all of Pickens. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews that she helped raise; Tim Anderson (Vicky) of Pickens, Tammy Peek (Steve) of Piedmont, Richard Anderson (Susan) of Inman, Michael Anderson (Deborah) of Pickens, Thomas Anderson (Amanda) of Pickens, Jonathan Anderson (Sadie) of Pickens, Stacy Simmons (Alex) of Pickens, Justin Anderson (Katie) of Pickens and Jessica Landers (Kyle) of Pickens. She was also a very proud “Mimi” to dozens of great and great-great nieces and nephews as well.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Truman “Bunt” Anderson and Tracy “Bill” Anderson, and her very special boyfriend of over 50 years, Walter Bramlett.

The family would like to thank everyone who took part in caring for Monzel in recent years. She was very proud to have such loving friends and family.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 30, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. in the sanctuary of New Hope Baptist Church in Pumpkintown with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service in Midway Baptist Church Cemetery in Pickens.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Anderson family.

 

HERBERT PAUL EADES

EASLEY — Herbert Paul Eades, 83, loving husband of 19 years to Teresa Ann Willis Eades, passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025, at his home.

Born on July 14, 1941, in Dacusville, Paul Eades was the beloved son of the late J.B. Eades and Arizona Scroggs Eades. A proud veteran, Paul honorably served his country in the United States Army, exemplifying the values of duty, honor, and dedication throughout his life.

Paul had a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He found peace working in his yard and loved nothing more than hitting the road for a spontaneous trip. A devoted reader of the Bible, his faith was a guiding force in his life. Known for his sense of humor, Paul often lightened the mood with a well-timed joke and a warm smile. His vibrant spirit and love for life left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Teresa A. Eades of the home; sons, Kevin Shawn Eades of Easley (Laura), Eric Tyler Eades (Jennifer) of Pickens and Nathan Willis Kelley of Easley; grandchildren, Oliva Eades, Scarlette-Anne Eades, Anna Eades, Morgan Cooper, Trevor Kelley, Anslei M. Kelley, Jordan Dodgens, Haley Jones, Chase Jones, Anna Galbreath and Tressa Sarvis; great-grandchildren, Nathan Lane Kelley and Sophia Holcombe; and great-great-grandchildren, Colton and Ailya.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings, the last of 10 children.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to caregiver Connie Jones for her compassionate care, as well as to the dedicated team at Prisma Hospice of the Foothills for their unwavering support and kindness during Paul’s final days.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 2, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. in the sanctuary of Amazing Grace Fellowship, 229 Pearl St, Pickens, with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. A private burial will take place at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans’ Cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Eades family.

 

JOHN WESLEY ‘J.W.’ COX

EASLEY — John Wesley “J.W.” Cox, 67, loving husband of 32 years to Mary Gillespie Cox, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.

Born on Jan. 9, 1958, in Pickens, J.W. was the son of Tom John Cox and the late Annie Ruth Lucas Cox.

A true enthusiast at heart, J.W. had a passion for model cars, spending countless hours building and admiring them. He was an avid NASCAR fan and could often be found enjoying his favorite cooking shows, always eager to try something new in the kitchen.

J.W. had a deep love for the outdoors, he found peace in nature and took great joy in hunting.

Above all, he cherished his family, holding them close to his heart and loving them with unwavering devotion.

In addition to his wife and father, Mr. Cox is survived by his children, Tiffany Porter (Chris) of Pickens, Matthew Harris (Kristie) of Liberty, Breanna Cox (Shawn) of Easley and Chris Brown of Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Montana (Logan), Taylor, Kendyl, Katara, Braylen, AnniBell, Addison, Skylynn, Adam, J.W., Gracelyn, Kinleigh and Aiden; a great-granddaughter, Naomi-Rose; siblings, Lisa Cox, Danny Cox and Steve Cox, all of Pickens; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his mother, J.W. was predeceased by a son, Dakota Wesley Cox; a daughter, Candice Cox Macmillan; and a brother, Larry Cox.

Funeral services were held on April 29, at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home. Burial followed the service in Liberty Memorial Gardens in Liberty.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Cox family.

 

BRIAN ROLLINS

EASLEY — With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Brian Rollins on April 20, 2025, at the age of 35. Brian was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend – known for his kind heart, gentle spirit, and love for the outdoors. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and warmth to those fortunate enough to know him.

Born on Oct. 20, 1989, Brian lived life with a deep appreciation for nature. Whether casting a line at his favorite spot or enjoying quiet moments outside, the outdoors was his sanctuary. His love for nature reflected the way he lived: calm, grounded and full of quiet joy.

Among his many roles, Brian was most proud to be a father. His daughter, Hannah Rollins, was the light of his life and the center of his world.

Brian is survived by his daughter, Hannah Rollins and his loving mother, Brenda Smith. He also leaves behind his siblings, Chris Rollins, Johnny Smith (Victoria Smith), Bobby Rollins, Charlie Rollins, Ryan Rollins and Sarah Rollins (Cory Peek). He was a proud uncle to Aubrie Smith, Kaylee Broom, Kinsley Rollins, Mason Smith, Kaid Rollins, Harper Smith and Kasiley Rollins; and is also remembered fondly by his three aunts, three uncles and many extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Rollins.

Brian’s gentle spirit, infectious smile, and the way he made others feel at ease will be deeply missed. His legacy will live on in the memories of all who loved him and in the countless lives he touched along the way.

A celebration of Brian’s life was held on April 28, at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Rollins family.

 

LAURIE ANN BROWN

LIBERTY — It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Laurie Ann Brown, 63, who left us peacefully on April 24, 2025, at Fleetwood Post Acute in Easley. Born on Sept. 23, 1961, in Anderson, she was a daughter of the late Vernon Eugene Owen.

She dedicated much of her career to Bosch, where she excelled as a technician in the manufacturing industry. She was known for her hard work and strong spirit, leaving a positive impact on those around her.

Laurie’s vibrant spirit was evident in her many passions. A devoted NASCAR enthusiast, she cherished the thrill of the races, especially when cheering on her favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt. Her love for adventure also extended to the beach, where she created countless joyful memories traveling with her beloved husband, Monroe Brown. Together, they embraced life and cherished their time spent under the sun and by the waves.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Monroe Brown; her son, Aaron Brown; her mother, Mary “Jimmy” Tinsley; and her sister, Tracy Mosley. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.  Also surviving are five grandchildren, Tyler Brown, Taylor Brown, Hailey Brown, Tessa Neal and Sierra Moore; one great granddaughter, Promise Moore.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a son, Chad Brown.

May you rest in peace, Laurie, and may your spirit continue to inspire all who knew you.

The family will host a celebration of life service at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at Refuge Baptist Church.  The family will receive friends following the service in the Fellowship Building.

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

 

REVEREND FOSTER DEAN GENTRY SR.

PICKENS — Reverend Foster Dean Gentry Sr., 89, of Pickens, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Born on Aug. 29, 1935, he was the son of the late Rosalie Howard Gentry and Thomas Herbert Gentry.

In 1954, Rev. Gentry graduated from Easley High School, where he was a member of the school band and played the cornet.

Rev. Gentry was a lifelong servant of God and a devoted leader in the Wesleyan Church. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Central Wesleyan College now Southern Wesleyan University in Central, where he deepened his commitment to ministry and spiritual service.

Over the course of his distinguished pastoral career, he faithfully served several congregations across South Carolina. His ministry included five years at Welcome Wesleyan Church in Seneca, six years at Easley First Wesleyan, 15 years at Carlisle Wesleyan in Spartanburg, six years back at Welcome Wesleyan for a second time, and 15 years at Pickens View Wesleyan Church.

He also held several offices in the South Carolina District of the Wesleyan Church, where he contributed to the growth and guidance of the denomination in the region.

In addition to his ministry, Rev. Gentry was an active member of the Rotary Club in Pickens, where he participated in community service and built lifelong friendships.

Rev. Gentry is survived by his two sons, Dean Gentry (Rev. Deana Gentry) and Steven Gentry; his special friend, Barbara Bagwell; his former daughter-in-law, Cathy DeJong Gentry; and his grandchildren Ross Gentry, Gabriella Gentry and Sam Gentry. He also leaves numerous nieces, nephews and cousins to cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Bailey Gentry; his siblings, Howard Gentry, Frank Gentry, David Gentry, infant brother Jack, Helen Shirley Corn and Sara Beth McQueen.

Services were held on April 26, 2025, at Pickens View Wesleyan Church.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

RALPH C. ROBINSON

PICKENS — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ralph Curtis Robinson, a beloved brother, veteran, and friend, who left us peacefully on April 8, 2025, at the age of 81.

He was born on Oct. 29, 1943, in Pickens, a son of the late Ira F. and Ocie Jackson Robinson.

Ralph was not just a skilled welder, dedicating many years to the construction industry; he was also a proud combat veteran who served as a squad leader in the United States Marine Corp during the Vietnam War. He received a Bronze Star for his heroic actions during the war. His courage and dedication to his country were a testament to his character, and his commitment to service extended far beyond his time in uniform. After his honorable discharge, he continued to lead by example, demonstrating resilience and determination in everything he did.

His warm smile, kindness, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by two sisters, Joyce Latour and Julie Mosley; a brother, William “Tex” Robinson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by several siblings.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, at M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veteran’s Cemetery in Anderson.

We invite all family and friends to join us as we celebrate Ralph’s life and pay our final respects to a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many. In remembrance of Ralph, let us carry forward his spirit of service and love.

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

 

ROBERT STEWART DODGENS

PICKENS — Robert Stewart Dodgens, 71, loving husband of 52 years to Norma Anderson Dodgens, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at his residence.

Born on June 22, 1953, in Pickens, Stewart was the son of the late Marvin F. Dodgens and Elise Nix Dodgens. He was a man who found happiness in life’s simple moments — whether it was catching an old episode of Gunsmoke or Perry Mason, or sitting down to enjoy some good fried chicken.

Stewart had a strong work ethic and took great pride in his career as a truck driver. He truly loved life on the road — the long hauls, the ever-changing scenery and the independence that came with it. He poured his heart into his work, and it showed.

Survivors include his wife, Norma A. Dodgens of the home; sons, Joshua Lee Dodgens and Stephen Fuller Dodgens (April) both of Pickens; grandchildren, Blake, Austin, Nicole, Keara, Stacie, Kadence, Ella and Henry; great-grandchildren, McKenna, Paisley, Harmony and Nevaeh; and sister, Jo Ann Crowe (Tony).

In addition to his parents, Mr. Dodgens was predeceased by a son, Curtis Robert Dodgens and a grandson, C.J. Dodgens.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Hospice of the Upstate, especially Toby, Ashley, Francis and Gary for the exceptional care, compassion, and support they provided to Stewart during his time of need.

A graveside service was held on April 26, at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Stewart’s honor may be made to Bethany Church of God, 428 Hagood Mill Rd, Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Dodgens family.