SHIRLEY LYDA

LIBERTY — It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Shirley Faye Lyda, on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the age of 86 at her home in Liberty.

She was born on Oct. 14, 1938, in Liberty to the late William Loyd and Mattie Lousie Gantt Waldrop. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wallace Thurston Lyda, brother, Melvin “Jack” Waldrop, and sister, Betty Nell Carver.

Wallace and Shirley “Bit” were married on Dec. 17, 1956, and were married for 56 years. She worked for 30 years at Engineered Custom Plastics as a human resources manager, where she retired. Shirley loved the outdoors, especially cutting her grass and tending to her flowers.

She is survived by three daughters, Melody (Don) Young, Vicki (Brian) Smith and Patti (Jim) Simmons. She has four grandchildren, Juston White, Erin Shealy, Summer Austin and Will Mays. She has 12 great-grandchildren, extended family, nieces, and nephews. Shirley was her happiest when she was home with family.

Shirley was a member of Rice’s Creek Baptist Church.

Funeral services to honor her life were held on June 6 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. She was laid to rest beside her husband at Rice’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who honored and loved our mother.

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

 

FREDERICK L. ‘FRED’ HODGES

EASLEY — Frederick L. “Fred” Hodges of Easley passed away at the age of 64 on Monday, June 2, 2025.

Fred was born on Jan. 29, 1961, in Cuyahoga, Ohio, to his mother, Dolores.

He had a passion for collecting knives and often carried two with him. Fred loved spending time in his camper and had a quirky sense of humor that made him a true jokester. In his free time, he enjoyed riding his electric bike and tending to his garden, where he planted flowers and herbs.

Above all, Fred deeply loved his wife, children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Teresa Hodges; his children, Adam James Pennington and Niki Lynn Pennington; numerous grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; mother, Dolores; sisters, Mary Ann, and Brenda; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family at this time.

 

WILLIAM LAW

CENTRAL — William Law, 66, passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

He was born in Georgia on July 29, 1958, to the late Patsy Ann and Wade Hampton Law.

William had a deep love for music, especially country and rock, and was a devoted animal lover. He took great pride in his work as a tree surgeon, a career that earned him the affectionate nickname “Earl the Squirrel” from coworkers and friends.

He is survived by his loving partner of 27 years, Mary Hayes; his son, William Law Jr.; daughters, Rebecca Law and Patricia Driscoll; grandchildren, Amarion Watson, Roman Law and Devin Madai; and great-grandchild, Armani Watson.

In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by his brothers, Wade H. Law Jr. and Rodney Law.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the family at this time.

 

LINDA GAIL REEVES AULTMAN

PICKENS — Linda Gail Reeves Aultman, 76, loving wife of the late Stanley Aultman, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at AnMed Cannon Hospital in Pickens.

Born on July 29, 1948, in Pickens County, Linda Gail was the cherished daughter of the late Alton “Tot” Reeves and Malone Chappell Reeves. She was a devoted member of Red Hill Baptist Church in Pickens, where she found spiritual solace and community.

For 41 years, Linda Gail dedicated herself to her work at the Milliken Gayley plant, embodying a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Her unwavering love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life. She found joy in the simple pleasures, particularly in watching birds, with hummingbirds holding a special place in her heart.

Despite facing the challenges of rheumatoid arthritis, Linda Gail remained a fighter, never allowing the condition to slow her down. Her resilience and determination were an inspiration to all who knew her. Linda Gail’s legacy is one of love, strength, and unwavering faith. She leaves behind a family and community forever grateful for the time they shared with her.

Survivors include her daughter, Suzanne Aultman of Greenville; brother, Roger Reeves of Pickens; brother-in-law, Bill Aultman (Linda); sisters-in-law, Vicky Anthony (Jim) and Dottie Aultman; and numerous special nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Aultman was predeceased by a sister, Drunell Rhodes; a brother, Sammy Reeves; and brothers-in-law, Bob Aultman and Sanky Aultman.

Funeral services were held on June 9, with burial at Holly Springs Baptist Church in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Linda Gails’s honor may be made to Red Hill Baptist Church, 558 Red Hill Road, Pickens, SC 29671, or to the charity of your choice.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Aultman family.

 

PAUL DUANE WHITE

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Duane White, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and cherished friend, who left us on June 4, 2025, at the age of 60.

Born on Dec. 28, 1964, in Elberton, Georgia, he was a son of Wayne and Anne Todd White.

Paul was a shining light in the lives of those who knew him. A proud veteran of the Navy, he later devoted his professional life to technology, having worked as a systems administrator for the School District of Pickens County and Anderson County. He was the go-to tech support for his family, solving everything from computer glitches to mobile phone mysteries with patience and a generous spirit.

Outside of work, Paul was an adventurer at heart. His passion for racing dirt bikes brought him joy and camaraderie, often found on tracks, where his infectious laughter was as prominent as his competitive spirit. An incredibly talented musician, he not only played guitar but also built them, filling his home with music that resonated with the love he shared with his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his loving wife, Jan White; his daughter, Alex Knutson (Ryan); his brothers, Brandon (Amber), Kevin and Danny White; and his father and mother-in-law, Alton and Shelby Howard. Also surviving are his two precious grandchildren, Brody and Bear.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity and laughter that will forever be cherished.

To honor Paul’s life, a memorial service was held on June 10 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel.

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

 

JAMES HENRY ‘JABO’ NIX

PICKENS — James Henry “Jabo” Nix, 62, loving husband of 36 years to Stephanie M. Nix, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Cottingham Hospice House in Seneca.

Born on Jan. 2, 1963, in Pickens, James was the cherished son of Willie Edward Nix Sr. and the late Roxie Jonell Capps Nix. A proud veteran of the United States National Guard, James was known for his gentle spirit and big-hearted nature — a true teddy bear to all who knew him.

A lifelong fan of the South Carolina Gamecocks, James also had a passion for NASCAR and wrestling. He found joy and freedom in driving his tractor-trailer, and he never passed up the chance to enjoy a good meal. He loved fishing for “anything that would bite,” and camping under the stars brought him peace.

Above all else, James cherished his family. His compassionate soul, love for the simple pleasures in life, and unwavering devotion to those he loved will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

In addition to his wife and father, James is survived by his children, Christopher Talbert (Crystal) of Easley, Joseph Nix of Pickens, Crystal Galloway (Len) of Pickens, Rachel Taylor (Travis) of Summerville, Amber Hannah (Zach) of Pickens, Kayla Nix (James) of Pickens, Anna Nix of Pickens, Jamie Nix (Megan) of Easley, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Johnson of Liberty; 20 loving grandchildren; one precious great-grandchild with another on the way; brothers, Willie “Billy” Edward Nix Jr. (Connie) and Joseph “Nicky” Nix (DeAnna); brother-in-law, Kenneth Crocker; and many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Mr. Nix was predeceased by his mother, Roxie Jonell Capps Nix, and a sister, Bessie Jonell Crocker

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hope Raby for the compassionate and gentle care she provided to James. Her kindness and support during his time of need will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, June 11, in the sanctuary of Maranatha Baptist Church in Pickens, with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. Burial will follow the service at the Bethlehem Church cemetery in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in James’s honor may be made to Cottingham Hospice House, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Nix family.

 

MELISSA BURNS

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts but joyful memories that we announce the passing of Melissa Campbell Burns, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, who departed this world on June 6, 2025, just shy of her 68th birthday.

Born in Anderson, she was the widow of Charles Melvin “Meatball” Burns and a daughter to the late James Thomas and Lois Hawkins Campbell. Melissa spent her life nurturing both her family and the beauty of nature around her.

Melissa was a true lover of life. Her passion for flowers and wildlife shone brightly in the lovely Koi ponds she tended to with devotion at her home in Liberty. A dedicated homemaker, she poured her heart into everything she did, ensuring that her children-Amanda Wood (Travis), Austin Burns, and Ryan Burns (Alicia)-always felt cherished. Her love extended to her grandchildren, including Davis Wood (Michaela) and Connors Wood, Alexis and Anna Grace Barbery, and Gabriel Burns, who brought her immense joy and filled her life with laughter. She also had fond memories through life with her sister, Rita Bell, her favorite brother-in-law, Mark Burns, and especially her close family friend, Carolyn Rice.

In addition to her nurturing spirit as a homemaker, Melissa was the proud owner of “Lady Bug Gardens,” where she immersed herself in her love for plants-a testament to her green thumb and her desire to share the beauty of nature with others. Known for her spirited personality, she was also an avid shopper, always on the lookout for a great deal and a perfect find.

A celebration of Melissa’s life will take place at Liberty Mortuary on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in her honor, share stories, and celebrate the vibrant life she lived.

Flowers will be accepted but memorials may also be made to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road Anderson, SC 29621 or The Wilderness Way Girls Camp, 175 Camp School Lane, Fair Play, SC 29643.

You may share memories and offer condolences to the family by visiting libertymortuary.com Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services are handling arrangements.

 

BETTY HOAGLAND PEEPLES

EASLEY — Betty Hoagland Peeples, age 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Powdersville Post Acute in Easley.

Betty was born on Oct. 2, 1936, in Charlotte, N.C., she was a woman of remarkable strength and warmth. As a mother, she balanced discipline with deep affection, ensuring her sons grew up with strong values and a sense of responsibility. Her culinary skills were legendary; the aroma of her home-cooked meals was a constant source of comfort and joy. Her open-hearted nature meant she never met a stranger, and her presence was always uplifting. With her radiant beauty and charismatic spirit, she left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Survivors include her son, Andy Peeples of Easley; grandchildren, Drew Peeples, Luke Peeples, and Morgan Peeples; and daughter-in-law, Jeanne Peeples.

Mrs. Peeples was predeceased by her son, Robert Peeples.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Peeples family.

 

WILLIAM J. ‘BUD’ ELLENBURG

LIBERTY — Psalms 116 verse 15: Precious in the sight of the Lord are the death of his saints.

Our Father and Papa went to be with the Lord on the 8th of June 2025. He was of the Baptist faith. He was much loved by his family who cared for him during his sickness. He had worked in the textile industry at Wunda Weave Carpet until his retirement and work other opportunities afterwards.

Bud was born on Aug. 29, 1931, to the late Cless and Lake Ellenburg of Liberty. He was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Kate Ellenburg; his son, Rick Ellenburg; his brother, David C Ellenburg; and his sister, Edna Belle Ellenburg Aiken.

Bud and Kate had three sons, Steve (Cheryl) Ellenburg, Ronnie (Deborah Jean) Ellenburg and Rick (Deborah Mae) Ellenburg; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren, all from the Liberty and Pickens area.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Tunnel to Towers, Dad’s favorite charity.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting the Ellenburg family with their arrangements.

 

PEGGY STONE JORDAN

PICKENS — Peggy Stone Jordan, 87, loving wife to the late Frank Jordan, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Manna Post Acute in Pickens, having lived and served the Travelers Rest community for many years.

Born on Sept. 2, 1937, in Bassett, Va., to the late Albert Bernard Stone and Sally Bryant Stone. A devoted member of Forestville Baptist Church in Greenville for 40 years, she lived her faith with quiet strength and unwavering commitment. Peggy touched countless lives through her kindness, humility and the way she treated others — with grace, respect and warmth. She found joy and was faithful in her church’s FAITH Ministry serving weekly. Never needing much, Peggy lived simply, never asking for much, always seeking to serve rather than be served. Peggy was known for sharing her “five flavor” pound cakes. She enjoyed her time with her family, especially with her loving grandchildren. She will be remembered by her endearing quirky pleasantries.

Survivors include her two daughters, Carol Ellison (Brian) of Easley and Michelle Campbell Murphy (Wayne) of Marietta; grandchildren, Brandon Campbell (Brooke), Dawson Campbell (Elena), Abbey LeClair (J.D.) and Will Ellison; great-grandchildren, Rowan, Piper Rae, Ivy and Lander; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Jordan was predeceased by her husband, Frank Jordan; son-in-law, Scott Campbell; sister, Betty Carol Martin; and brother, Elwood N. Stone.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff of Manna Post Acute for the exceptional care provided to Mrs. Jordan. They are also profoundly thankful to Forestville Baptist Church for their continued spiritual support and ministry.

Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Thursday, June 12,  in the sanctuary of Forestville Baptist Church, 2 Old McElhaney Road, Greenville, SC 29617, with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Ebenezer Cemetery in Travelers Rest.

Flowers will be accepted. Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Jordan family.