GARY OWEN

PICKENS — Gary Owen, 77, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Born on July 7, 1947, Gary was the beloved son of the late Inez Galloway Owen and Will Owen.

A gifted musician, Gary had a natural talent for music and was proficient in playing multiple instruments. His curiosity and creativity extended beyond music, as he also found great joy in tinkering with electronics. In his earlier years, Gary held a deep appreciation for the outdoors, where he found both inspiration and peace. Gary was deeply devoted to his family, whose love and presence brought him endless joy.

Gary is survived by his son, Gary Dale Owen of Pickens; his daughter, Denise Holliday of Pickens; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Ophelia Ashe, and his brother, Stanley Owen of Pickens.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his siblings, Vera Bowie, Jaroll Owen, Caroll Owen, Faroll Owen, Denver Owen and A.B. Owen.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 25, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2410 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens.

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

 

JOSEPH DANIEL ‘DAN’ GILLESPIE SR.

EASLEY — Joseph Daniel “Dan” Gillespie Sr., 80, loving husband to the late Sandra Gail Freeman Gillespie, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Born on July 17, 1944, in Pickens County, Dan was the beloved son of the late Clarence Nebraska Gillespie and Mary Merck Gillespie. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Mr. Gillespie exemplified dedication and service throughout his life. Dan found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a devoted reader of the Bible, drawing strength and guidance from its teachings. A creative spirit, he spent hours crafting model airplanes from popsicle sticks, a hobby that showcased both his patience and imagination. He also had a deep appreciation for classic Westerns, often spending quiet moments enjoying tales of the American frontier.

Professionally, Dan was the owner of Easley Ceramic and Tile, where he took great pride in his craftsmanship and the relationships he built through his work. His commitment to excellence and strong work ethic left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Survivors include his children, Joseph Daniel Gillespie Jr. of Easley, Dana Michelle Atkinson (Gary) of Easley and James Darren Gillespie (Jessie) of Pickens; grandchildren, Mitchell, Phillip, Brittany, Elin, Ean and Easton; great-grandchildren, Easlee, Addaley, Dalton and Blayne; and sister, Martha Jane Dodd.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Gillespie was predeceased by his brothers, Johnny Gillespie, Jimmy Gillespie and Ben Gillespie, and his sisters, Kitty Hawkins and Betty Strouse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Dan’s honor may be made to Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home, 4605 Belton Highway, Anderson, SC 29621.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Gillespie family.

 

MICKEY ROACH

CENTRAL — It is with a mix of sadness and celebration that we announce the passing of Michael Russell Roach, who left us on June 11, 2025, at the age of 67.

Born in Easley on Nov. 9, 1957, he was a son of the late Ralph and Lola Gunnells Roach.

He was a father, brother and friend who brought joy to those around him with his infectious spirit and love for life.

Mickey lived in Central, where he embraced every opportunity to share his passion for NASCAR racing. A fan through and through, he eagerly followed his favorite driver, the legendary Dale Earnhardt. Those who knew him can fondly recall the excitement in his voice as he recounted the highlights of races or shared the thrill of a well-executed pit stop.

He is survived by his daughter, Kala Riley; his brother, James Roach; his sister, Lisa Beeler; and four grandchildren, Brayden, Natalie, Scout and Willow.

No services are planned.

Rest well, Mickey. You’ve taken the checkered flag, and we’ll carry your memory in our hearts, always racing forward in your honor.

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

 

RICHARD CHRISTOPHER (CHRIS) FISHER

EASLEY — Richard Christopher (Chris) Fisher, 47, passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at his home.

Born in Greenville on Jan. 5, 1978, Chris was the beloved son of the late Richard Herman Staggs and Deborah Ann Fisher Roach. He had a deep passion for music, with a special place in his heart for the Grateful Dead. Chris found freedom and joy on the open road, often seen riding his Harley, chasing adventure wherever the wind took him.

A free spirit by nature, he loved to travel — whether it was a spontaneous road trip or a getaway to Las Vegas, he embraced every opportunity to make memories. Chris had a zest for life and was always up for a good time, bringing laughter and warmth wherever he went.

More than anything, Chris cherished his family. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life, and the joy they brought him was immeasurable. He loved them deeply and took pride in every moment shared together.

Survivors include the mother of his children, Olivia A. Fisher of Liberty; his life partner, Tiffany Caldwell of Easley; children, Richard Dylan Fisher (Alice) of Liberty, Samson Kane Fisher (Christina) of Taylors, Trinity Daydream Fisher of Liberty and Milton Gage Fisher of Liberty; grandchildren, Hazleigh and Eliza Fisher; siblings, Kayla McCollum of Pickens, Gidget Jones (Ricky) of Conestee and Chastity Aleman (Pedro) of Conestee; special aunt, Rita Hughes; and cousin, Kenji Hughes.

Mr. Fisher was predeceased by his parents.

A funeral service was held June 19 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Fisher family.

 

GLEN GARY SIMPSON

PICKENS — It is with a heavy heart yet joyous spirit that we announce the passing of Glen Gary Simpson, a beloved brother, master carpenter and friend to many, who left this world on June 18, 2025, at the age of 69.

Born on Feb. 9, 1956, in Casper, Wyo., to the late Alexander and Dixie Lee Davis Simpson, Glen dedicated his life to his craft, becoming a self-employed master carpenter and professional home builder known for his meticulous attention to quality and detail. He built beautiful homes and mansions all throughout South Florida.

Glen’s journey was one of hard work and unwavering passion. He made his profession of faith in 1987, finding a spiritual home at Boca Glades Baptist Church in Boca Raton, Fla., where he was baptized and embraced a life filled with joy and purpose. Glen had a love for music that spanned all genres, often lifting the spirits of those around him with his playlists filled with tunes that inspired good times and fond memories.

An outdoorsman at heart, Glen cherished nature and often found solace in its beauty. He shared a special bond with his longtime sweetheart, Rose Dix, and he leaves behind cherished memories for his loving sisters, Jeanette deBrauwere (Scott) and Katherine “Katie” Yates (LaRue), as well as his brother, Craig Simpson (Birdie). He also leaves behind four nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and one great-nephew.

Private family services will be held at a later date. You may share memories and offer condolences to the family by visiting libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary and Cremation Services are assisting the family.

 

WILLIAM BUD TAYLOR JR.

WILLIAMSTON — William Bud Taylor Jr., 88, loving husband of 53 years to the late Edna Pauline Mosley Taylor, passed away on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson.

Born in Pickens County on Dec. 17, 1936, William was the cherished son of the late William Bud Taylor Sr. and Belle Lovadie Williams Taylor. A devoted and hardworking man, William found genuine fulfillment in staying busy and took pride in everything he did. Whether tending to his garden, meticulously cutting grass or tackling tasks around the home, he approached each job with quiet determination and care, often completing it before anyone even asked.

He was known not only for his work ethic, but also for his unwavering commitment to his family. A loving father and devoted family man, William’s greatest joy came from the time he spent with those he loved. His steady presence, selflessness and dependability left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Survivors include his sons, William Bud “Billy” Taylor III (Tammy) of Evington, Va., and Robert “Bobby” Taylor (Judy) of Easley; grandchildren, Shannon, B.J. and Ashley; step-grandson, B.J.; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Charles Taylor (Patsy) of Easley, David Taylor (Margie) of Travelers Rest and Mildred Rowland of Pickens; brothers-in-law, Bob Mosley (Star) of Easley and Joey Mosley of Covington, Ga.; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Taylor was predeceased by his brother, Howard Taylor, and his sisters, Dorothy Dowdy and Martha Scruggs.

A funeral service and visitation were held on Monday, June 23, in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home. Burial followed the service at Pine Grove Baptist Church cemetery in Sunset.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Taylor family.

 

EMILY BOWERS

SIX MILE — Emily Bowers, 79, loving wife to the late William Donnie Bowers, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Lila Doyle Post Acute in Seneca.

Born in Pickens County on March 18, 1946, Emily was the beloved daughter of the late Roy Reeves and Ruth Haynes Reeves. She shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Donnie. Emily found joy in the simple pleasures of life — cherished trips to the mountains, peaceful days camping and relaxing moments by the lake. A talented cook, she took pride in preparing meals for her loved ones whenever her health allowed. Her deep love for animals, especially dogs, was a defining part of her gentle spirit and compassionate heart.

Survivors include her daughter, Jan Alexander (Dan) of Six Mile; son, Joe Bowers (Amy) of Six Mile; and grandchildren, Kristy, Lisa, Tosha, Renee and Rebecca.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Bowers was predeceased by her siblings, James Reeves, Glenda Reeves and William “Bob” Reeves.

A funeral service was held on June 24 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home. Burial followed the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Bowers family.

 

 FRANCES G. ‘FRAN’ SENTELL

PICKENS — Frances G. “Fran” Sentell, 95, loving wife of more than 60 years to the late Thomas Hoyet Sentell, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at Manna Post Acute in Pickens.

Born in Pickens County on April 5, 1930, Fran was the cherished daughter of the late John Seaborn Gilstrap and Vadie Simmons Gilstrap. With a strong work ethic and a heart for service, she dedicated many years of her life to her career as an insurance agent at Canal Insurance, where she was known for her professionalism and commitment.

Mrs. Sentell is survived by many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Sentell was predeceased by her siblings, Mildred Senn, Willie Mae Roper, Ruth Smith and Joe “JM” Gilstrap.

A funeral service was held on June 20 in the mausoleum at Greenville Memorial Gardens in Piedmont. Entombment followed the service at Greenville Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Fran’s honor may be made to Servants For Sight by visiting servantsforsight.org, by calling (864) 249-7037 or by mailing P.O. Box 2122, Greenville, SC 29602.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Sentell family.

 

CHARLTON DELANO BOWIE

PICKENS — Charlton Delano Bowie, 90, of Pickens, passed away on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Charlton was born in Transylvania County, N.C., to the late Hinkle Erskine and Magree Fisher Bowie.

He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church and had a special appreciation for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and above all spending time with his family. Mr. Bowie proudly served as a staff sergeant in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict, with an occupation of aircraft mechanic. After his discharge, he was called back into the reserve at Donaldson Air Force Base, with his last assignment 77th Troop Carrier Squadron (TAC). He later retired from Ryobi/Singer after 39 years of service.

Mr. Bowie is survived by his son, Timothy Bowie (Lisa); daughter, Anita Finley (Greg); grandchildren, Rachel Finley Norfleet and Hannah Finley; great-grandchild, Odin Norfleet; and nephew, Scott Stancell (Georgette). He also leaves behind numerous beloved nieces and nephews by marriage.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Betty Coleman Bowie; and his sister, Tommie Stancell (Roy).

Services for Charlton were held on Tuesday, June 24, at Dillard Funeral Home and Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Flowers are accepted, or donations in Charlton’s memory may be made to Rainey Hospice House.

Online condolences may be expressed by visiting dillardfunerals.com.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.