WILLIAM DAVID NORRIS

PICKENS — Some people leave behind memories, some leave behind traditions, and others leave behind a legacy. Legacy is exactly what Coach David “Red-Bone” Norris left behind to the countless men and women he mentored and coached for more than 50 years.

Even more important was the legacy he leaves with his family, a legacy of love, trust, and kindness that will be forever remembered and carried on for generations to come.

“Uncle Dump,” as he was affectionately known by his 30 plus nieces and nephews and more than 100 great and great-great nieces and nephews, will not be remembered for his loyalty to the Pickens Blue Flame or the Clemson Tigers as much as he will be for his unwavering devotion and commitment to his family. Whether he was teaching them to drive, fish, throw a football, swing a golf club, or simply kissing boo-boos and having tea parties, he always found a way to make each one feel special.

Born and raised in Pickens, David had a deep love for the outdoors. Whether in the mountains, woods, or along the streams, you could often find him there, unless he was on the sidelines or in the dugout of a local game. For over five decades, he coached and supported programs ranging from recreation leagues to Middle and High school level in Pickens as well as working in Recruitment and Youth Camps at Clemson.

His impact spanned multiple sports, including boys’ and girls’ basketball, softball, baseball, and football.

He also faithfully served as the leader of the Pickens “Chain Gang” for Blue Flame football games and pulled Chains for Clemson Home Games as well. A dedicated Clemson supporter, he was a lifelong IPTAY member and booster. He retired from Ryobi Motor Products and later worked with The Cliffs Communities and Ohio Gear. David was also a devoted member of Bethany Church of God in Pickens.

He was the beloved son of the late Wilson and Clara Gillespie Norris. One of ten children, he is survived by two sisters, Margaret Bolding and Lola Townsend, both of Pickens. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles, Hagood and Larry Norris, and by his sisters, Ruby Galloway, Martha Jean Wardlaw, Patsy Raines and Katherine Holcombe.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on May 30, at Bethany Church of God located at 428 Hagood Mill Road in Pickens, officiated by the Rev. Roger Stephens.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather and share memories and fellowship.

The family requests that attendees wear their favorite Pickens Blue Flame or Clemson Tigers attire in his honor.

MARJORIE JOAN PREUSZ

PICKENS — Marjorie Joan Preusz, 91, went to be with her Lord and Savior on May 17, 2026.

Marjorie devoted her life to her family and church. She had a remarkable gift for remembering the little things that made others happy — favorite foods, comforts, preferences and routines. Her kids and grandkids knew they could count on a well-stocked cupboard and fridge for their visits. She spent months planning gifts and games for Christmas, her favorite time of the year.

Marjorie served as church pianist and organist for most of her life in Indiana, North Carolina and South Carolina alongside her husband, Wayne, who pastored the churches. She and Wayne devoted themselves to each other through the highs and lows of 73 years of marriage, and their gentle affection remains an inspiration to many. Musically gifted, Marjorie started playing and singing for church at age 12. She could read music but typically did not need to. Rather, she would read the mood of the church service and provide the perfect background music from her creative mind and memory. She also dedicated countless hours to developing and leading children’s church programs.

Marjorie loved shopping, rearranging furniture for a fresh look and spending time with family. She enjoyed daily lunches at Jimmy’s Family Restaurant, getting to know the owners and staff. She prayed daily for her family and was known for her lively conversations and sharp wit. Her mind and memory remained strong until her final days. She loved to cut up with friends. In fact, with two or three of her longtime friends, you could be sure that mischief would ensue if they were together. Her family and friends will remember her warmth, humor and the many ways she cared for them.

She is survived by her husband, T. Wayne Preusz of Pickens; four children, Debbie Hines (Barry) of Plain City, Ohio, Rachel Gulledge (Scotty) of Canton, Mich., Mike Preusz (Sandy) of Pickens and Paula Lemons (Derrick) of Watkinsville, Ga.

She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Chad Hines (Heather) of Plain City, Ohio, Christy Thompson (Cory) of Plain City, Ohio, Cory Sáenz (Hunter) of Charlotte, N.C., Joshua Gulledge (Lyndsay) of Pinckney, Mich., Caleb Gulledge (Julie) of Dunwoody, Ga., Michaela Cisneros (Austin) of Manhattan, Kan., Nathaniel Lemons of Athens, Ga., and Zachary Lemons of Watkinsville, Ga.

She is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren, Kyle Hines (Ashley), Lexi Hines, Gavin and Reese Johnson; Blake, Lauryn, Mackenzie and Avery Gulledge; Jaina, Scarlett and Rory Gulledge; and Casyn Cisernos.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Edith Johnson; her sister, Lucretia Call; her brother, Wayne Johnson; and her grandson, Jonathan Gulledge.

A visitation will be held on June 6, from 11-11:50 a.m., with the funeral service to begin at noon at Pickens View Wesleyan Church, 744 Bethlehem Ridge Road, Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Pickens View Wesleyan Church or Agape Care of South Carolina.

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

MAXINE ROGERS MAULDIN

PICKENS — Some people leave behind memories. Others leave behind traditions, recipes, gardens, stories and a way of loving that becomes woven into a family forever.

Maxine Rogers Mauldin was one of those people.

On May 18, 2026, Maxine entered her eternal home at the age of 89, leaving behind generations of family who knew her as the steady center of so many of life’s memories. While there is deep sadness in saying goodbye, there is also tremendous joy in knowing that after a life marked by unwavering faith, service and love, she is now in the presence of her Savior, with that same smile that reached her eyes, walking and talking with Him in the garden.

Born and raised in the Upstate of South Carolina, Maxine worked 36 years at WestPoint Home in Clemson before retiring. For more than 75 years, she was a faithful member of Gap Hill Church of God in Six Mile, where her faith was not simply something she believed, but something she lived every day.

She prayed constantly for her children, grandchildren, church family, friends and anyone carrying a burden. Family often joked that she had a direct line to Jesus, because if you knew Maxine, chances are you knew she was praying for you.

Her home was rarely quiet. Cars lined the yard on holidays, birthdays and ordinary Sundays that somehow became special. The kitchen was always busy. Even into her later years, she was preparing meals for everyone, making biscuits straight from the Crisco can and feeding anyone who walked through the door, always making sure they got enough to eat.

Throughout the halls of Maxine’s home, generations of family photos and gifted artwork lined the walls, alongside bookshelves filled with personalized scrapbooks she lovingly created for each of her children and grandchildren. She spent countless hours piecing together not only photographs, but little details of life many would overlook. Old menus, invitations, newspaper clippings, used wrapping paper and party napkins woven together with handwritten notes to preserve the stories behind moments both big and small. She had a way of making people feel like every part of their life mattered because, to her, it did.

She faithfully sent birthday cards, thank-you cards and “just because” cards because she never wanted anyone to forget just how much they were loved and appreciated.

Maxine was resourceful and creative, saving baggies because they still had life left in them, grilling everything at once in the fridge because she wasn’t about to waste good coals, and could sew, fix and repurpose just about anything.

She also had a gift for growing things. Flowers, vegetables and plants thrived in her care. She would often take the seeds from a good juicy store-bought “tomata” and proudly grow her own. In many ways, she lived life the same way, taking what God gave her and nurturing it with care, patience and love.

Her strength and perseverance shaped her family in ways that will continue long after her passing. She raised her daughters with determination and grace and spent a lifetime caring for others, especially those who depended on her most. She showed up, over and over again, for birthdays, events, celebrations and all the ordinary days in between.

Many will remember hearing, “Come here, I got something I want to show you,” because she never stopped finding joy in sharing life with you. There’s no doubt if you were ever lucky enough to walk through Maxine’s door, you were welcomed, cared for and usually leaving with something in your hands.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Mauldin; her parents, Oscar Rogers and Juanita Reid Rogers; and her sister, Oberia Rogers Wells.

She is survived by her daughters, Lisa O’Bryant (Dennis) of Greer and Melanie Trotter (Allen) of Liberty; her stepchildren, Elaine Stanley of Pickens, Ronnie Mauldin of Pickens and Mark Mauldin (Lori) of Columbia; two grandchildren raised in the home, Drew Mauldin (Sally) of Easley and Adrienne Wate (Dee) of West Union; seven grandchildren, Michele Brown, Lee Cathey (Amber), Matthew Trotter (Shelley), Todd Trotter (Hannah), Harrison Mauldin, Rayleigh Mauldin and Emerson Mauldin; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; her brother, Wallace Rogers (Lynn) of Waynesville, N.C.; along with countless extended family members, church family and friends.

She may no longer be here with us on earth, but you don’t have to look far to see her legacy — gathered around the table, in handwritten cards and photographs, in blooming flowers and plentiful gardens, and in generations of people whose lives were forever touched by her love.

Services were held at Gap Hill Church of God on May 23, with a committal service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Arrangements are being handled by Dillard Memorial Funeral Home.

 

SUSAN L. BRINKLEY

CENTRAL — Susan L. Brinkley, 62, loving wife of 36 years to Donnie T. Brinkley, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Lila Doyle Post Acute in Seneca.

Born on July 12, 1963, in Pickens County, Susan was the cherished daughter of the late Rayborn Roach and Linda Scruggs Roach. A member of Elljean Baptist Church, she lived her life with kindness, warmth and a heart for others. Susan loved her family deeply and treasured every moment spent with them. She never met a stranger and had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome and cared for.

Susan found great joy in the outdoors and especially loved flowers and gardening, taking pride in the beauty she created around her home. She worked as a waitress for many years, where her friendly personality and genuine compassion left a lasting impression on countless people. With her warm spirit and natural way with others, Susan formed friendships wherever she went and touched the lives of many

Survivors include her husband, Donnie T. Brinkley of the home; sons, Shane Rackley of Pickens, Zachary Rackley of Pickens and Michael Willis of Central; grandchildren, Camron and many other grandchildren; brother, Franklin Roach of Easley; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Susan was predeceased by her brother, Curtis Roach, and sister, Vivian.

A funeral service was held on May 22 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens. Burial took place following the service at Gap Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Six Mile.

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

 

ALTON RAY ESUARY

PICKENS — Alton Ray Esuary, 83, loving husband of 40 years to Julie Esuary, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Born on Dec. 12, 1942, in Pickens County, Alton was the beloved son of the late Clayton William Esuary and Julia Irene Brown Esuary.

Alton loved his family deeply and enjoyed spending time with them. He was a talented handyman who could build or fix almost anything. Early in life, he worked as a painter and later spent many years employed with Sangamo/Cornell Dubilier. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time outdoors.

Survivors include his wife, Julie Esuary of the home; children, Sharon Hager (Mike), Kathy Brezeale (Scott), Steven Esuary (Anna) and Niki Rusher; grandchildren, Angie Hager (Emily), Cody Hager (Sarah), Jed Hager, Brittany Copeland (Jeremy), Haley Troyer (Seth), Keith Brezeale (Lea), Katie Dickard (Jason), Taylor Rusher, Jacob Rusher, Karlyn Esuary and Isaac Esuary; 10 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Jacky Esuary and Jimmy Esuary.

In addition to his parents, Alton was predeceased by his first wife, Vivian Holcombe Esuary; their son, Barry Alton Esuary; his brothers, Tommy Esuary, Billy Esuary and Bobby Esuary; and his sister, Betty Gillespie.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Agape Hospice and TerraBella Summit for the exceptional care, kindness and compassion shown to Alton during his final days.

Services were held on May 26 at Dillard Funeral Home and Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

WILLIAM DAVID NORRIS

PICKENS — Some people leave behind memories, some leave behind traditions, and others leave behind a legacy. Legacy is exactly what Coach David “Red-Bone” Norris left behind to the countless men and women he mentored and coached for more than 50 years.

Even more important was the legacy he leaves with his family, a legacy of love, trust, and kindness that will be forever remembered and carried on for generations to come.

“Uncle Dump,” as he was affectionately known by his 30 plus nieces and nephews and more than 100 great and great-great nieces and nephews, will not be remembered for his loyalty to the Pickens Blue Flame or the Clemson Tigers as much as he will be for his unwavering devotion and commitment to his family. Whether he was teaching them to drive, fish, throw a football, swing a golf club, or simply kissing boo-boos and having tea parties, he always found a way to make each one feel special.

Born and raised in Pickens, David had a deep love for the outdoors. Whether in the mountains, woods, or along the streams, you could often find him there, unless he was on the sidelines or in the dugout of a local game. For over five decades, he coached and supported programs ranging from recreation leagues to Middle and High school level in Pickens as well as working in Recruitment and Youth Camps at Clemson.

His impact spanned multiple sports, including boys’ and girls’ basketball, softball, baseball, and football.

He also faithfully served as the leader of the Pickens “Chain Gang” for Blue Flame football games and pulled Chains for Clemson Home Games as well. A dedicated Clemson supporter, he was a lifelong IPTAY member and booster. He retired from Ryobi Motor Products and later worked with The Cliffs Communities and Ohio Gear. David was also a devoted member of Bethany Church of God in Pickens.

He was the beloved son of the late Wilson and Clara Gillespie Norris. One of ten children, he is survived by two sisters, Margaret Bolding and Lola Townsend, both of Pickens. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles, Hagood and Larry Norris, and by his sisters, Ruby Galloway, Martha Jean Wardlaw, Patsy Raines and Katherine Holcombe.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on May 30, at Bethany Church of God located at 428 Hagood Mill Road in Pickens, officiated by the Rev. Roger Stephens.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather and share memories and fellowship.

The family requests that attendees wear their favorite Pickens Blue Flame or Clemson Tigers attire in his honor.

WILLIAM ROBERT MORTON

PICKENS — William Robert Morton, 58, left this world on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at his home.

Born on Oct. 27, 1967, in Pickens County, William was the son of the late Berry F. Morton and Rachel Stephens Morton. He was a quiet and independent soul who enjoyed the simple things in life. William loved spending his time watching classic Westerns and listening to classic rock and old country music, finding comfort and enjoyment in the timeless stories and songs he cherished.

Survivors include his three brothers, Larry Morton, Terry Morton and Len Morton; three sisters, Shirley Crowe, Sandra Greene and Donna Morton; six nephews, Kenny Crowe, Brad Reed, David Morton, Andrew Cantrell, Justin Reed and Dusty Morton; two nieces, Amber Duncan and Erica Cantrell; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. He was especially close to Annistyn and Maddox Duncan.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Morton was predeceased by two brothers, Artie Morton and Tony Morton.

It is the sincere hope of the family that William has finally found peace. Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Morton family.

 

LEE WILLIAM CLEMENTS

LIBERTY — Lee William Clements passed away peacefully in his home on May 20, 2026, following a brave two-year battle with cancer.

Born to the late Harry Eugene Clements and Gertrude Swayngim Clements, Lee was a man who loved his family, his country, good music, fireworks, Amazon and the beautiful land he called home. Over the last two years, he faced his health challenges with remarkable courage and trusted in God, whom he called “the Peacemaker.”

Lee’s greatest joy and proudest achievement was his family. He was a loving husband to his wife, Pam Clements, with whom he shared a beautiful life.

His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, who brought immense pride and happiness to his life. He is survived by his son, Brandon Clements, and his wife Kristi, along with their children Sully, Remi, Isla and Ames; and his daughter, Hannah, and her husband Jacob, along with their children Millie and Ellis. They will all miss his laughter, his warmth and the quiet strength he brought to their lives.

Lee was a cherished pillar of his family and will be deeply missed. Thankfully, in his words, due to his trust in Christ, “death is not the end, but the beginning of what we’ve been waiting for.”

A celebration of Lee’s life was held at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens on May 23.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Clements family.

 

DEAN GALLOWAY

EASLEY — Geraldine Howard “Dean” Galloway, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 76.

Born on April 12, 1950, in Easley, she was a daughter of the late John and Ocie Nix Howard.

She was married for 60 wonderful years to the late Harvey Galloway. She was a retiree of Alice Manufacturing, where she worked for many years.

She will be affectionately remembered by her loving daughter, Lynne Maness (Glen); a grandson, Zack Ward; a great-grandchild, Derrian; and a brother, Tony Howard. She was cherished by several nieces and nephews and many friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Galloway was preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth Stancil, and a brother, John Edwin Howard.

No services are planned at this time. To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

WILLIAM ROBERT MORTON

PICKENS — William Robert Morton, 58, left this world on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at his home.

Born on Oct. 27, 1967, in Pickens County, William was the son of the late Berry F. Morton and Rachel Stephens Morton. He was a quiet and independent soul who enjoyed the simple things in life. William loved spending his time watching classic Westerns and listening to classic rock and old country music, finding comfort and enjoyment in the timeless stories and songs he cherished.

Survivors include his three brothers, Larry Morton, Terry Morton and Len Morton; three sisters, Shirley Crowe, Sandra Greene and Donna Morton; six nephews, Kenny Crowe, Brad Reed, David Morton, Andrew Cantrell, Justin Reed and Dusty Morton; two nieces, Amber Duncan and Erica Cantrell; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. He was especially close to Annistyn and Maddox Duncan.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Morton was predeceased by two brothers, Artie Morton and Tony Morton.

It is the sincere hope of the family that William has finally found peace. Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Morton family.

 

LEE WILLIAM CLEMENTS

LIBERTY — Lee William Clements passed away peacefully in his home on May 20, 2026, following a brave two-year battle with cancer.

Born to the late Harry Eugene Clements and Gertrude Swayngim Clements, Lee was a man who loved his family, his country, good music, fireworks, Amazon and the beautiful land he called home. Over the last two years, he faced his health challenges with remarkable courage and trusted in God, whom he called “the Peacemaker.”

Lee’s greatest joy and proudest achievement was his family. He was a loving husband to his wife, Pam Clements, with whom he shared a beautiful life.

His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, who brought immense pride and happiness to his life. He is survived by his son, Brandon Clements, and his wife Kristi, along with their children Sully, Remi, Isla and Ames; and his daughter, Hannah, and her husband Jacob, along with their children Millie and Ellis. They will all miss his laughter, his warmth and the quiet strength he brought to their lives.

Lee was a cherished pillar of his family and will be deeply missed. Thankfully, in his words, due to his trust in Christ, “death is not the end, but the beginning of what we’ve been waiting for.”

A celebration of Lee’s life was held at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens on May 23.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Clements family.

 

DEAN GALLOWAY

EASLEY — Geraldine Howard “Dean” Galloway, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 76.

Born on April 12, 1950, in Easley, she was a daughter of the late John and Ocie Nix Howard.

She was married for 60 wonderful years to the late Harvey Galloway. She was a retiree of Alice Manufacturing, where she worked for many years.

She will be affectionately remembered by her loving daughter, Lynne Maness (Glen); a grandson, Zack Ward; a great-grandchild, Derrian; and a brother, Tony Howard. She was cherished by several nieces and nephews and many friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Galloway was preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth Stancil, and a brother, John Edwin Howard.

No services are planned at this time. To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

ALTON RAY ESUARY

PICKENS — Alton Ray Esuary, 83, loving husband of 40 years to Julie Esuary, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Born on Dec. 12, 1942, in Pickens County, Alton was the beloved son of the late Clayton William Esuary and Julia Irene Brown Esuary.

Alton loved his family deeply and enjoyed spending time with them. He was a talented handyman who could build or fix almost anything. Early in life, he worked as a painter and later spent many years employed with Sangamo/Cornell Dubilier. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time outdoors.

Survivors include his wife, Julie Esuary of the home; children, Sharon Hager (Mike), Kathy Brezeale (Scott), Steven Esuary (Anna) and Niki Rusher; grandchildren, Angie Hager (Emily), Cody Hager (Sarah), Jed Hager, Brittany Copeland (Jeremy), Haley Troyer (Seth), Keith Brezeale (Lea), Katie Dickard (Jason), Taylor Rusher, Jacob Rusher, Karlyn Esuary and Isaac Esuary; 10 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Jacky Esuary and Jimmy Esuary.

In addition to his parents, Alton was predeceased by his first wife, Vivian Holcombe Esuary; their son, Barry Alton Esuary; his brothers, Tommy Esuary, Billy Esuary and Bobby Esuary; and his sister, Betty Gillespie.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Agape Hospice and TerraBella Summit for the exceptional care, kindness and compassion shown to Alton during his final days.

Services were held on May 26 at Dillard Funeral Home and Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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