DERRILL EDWARD ‘BUDDY’ BOTTOMS

LIBERTY — Derrill Edward “Buddy” Bottoms, 85, loving husband of 63 years to Carolyn Chandler Bottoms, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, May 27, 2024, at his home.

Born March 3, 1939, in Oconee County, Buddy was the son of the late C.L. Bottoms and Ella Mae Henson Bottoms. Mr. Bottoms was of the Church of God faith. He built a successful business at Buddy’s Chainsaw in Pickens. He was a good, gentle person who loved his family and looked out for others. He enjoyed boating and fishing and loved flying his model airplanes.

Survivors include his wife, Carolyn Chandler Bottoms of the home; son, Mike Bottoms (Angie) of Liberty; grandchildren, Rebecca Addison (Ryan) of Clemson and Jared Bottoms (Shelby) of Liberty; and great-grandchildren, Elliott, Charlie and soon to be a third.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Bottoms was predeceased by a brother, Morris Bottoms.

A graveside service was held at Oconee Memorial Park on May 31.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Bottoms family.

DAVID ELLIS SILL

EASLEY — Mr. David Ellis Sill, 73, loving husband to Susan Sill, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, May 30, 2024.

David was born to the late Jacob Thornwell and Geraldine Houk Sill on Dec. 21, 1950.

He served our country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. In his spare time, David enjoyed NASCAR Racing, riding motorcycles, playing the bass guitar and listening to music. He also enjoyed working on classic cars, especially Camaros. Most of all, David loved spending time with his family. David loved being “Poppy” to his six grandchildren. He leaves a legacy of faith, kindness and love for all who truly knew him.

In addition to his wife of 17 years, David is survived by two sons, Mitch Sill (Chelsea) and Clayton Sill (Brittany); one daughter, Emily Porter (Kyle); six grandchildren, Kenna Sill, Karli Sill, Benjamin Sill, Addison Sill, Micah Porter and Gideon Porter; and two brothers, John Sill (Anne) and Harold Sill (Patty).

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his sister, Jeanette Sill.

The funeral service was conducted at the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home on June 3.

David was laid to rest at Secona Baptist Church, in Pickens, following the chapel service.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the team of caregivers that helped David over the last few years, Affinity Hospice and The Baptist Easley ICU Medical Team.

Flowers are accepted or memorials can be made to Secona Baptist Church Music Ministry located at 234 Secona Road, Pickens, SC 29671.

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

AMANDA M. BURGESS

EASLEY — Karie Amanda McCoy Burgess, 47, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at her residence.

Born in Greenville, she is the daughter of Robert E. “Bob” McCoy (Nancy) of Easley and Jane Whitlock Moorehead (Aaron) of Westminster.

Amanda graduated from Forsyth High School in Georgia and was formerly employed with Walgreens in Powdersville. She loved art and listening to her favorite music.

Surviving are her husband, Brian Keith Burgess; her children, Molly Burgess and Paul Burgess; her siblings, Joshua McCoy of Spartanburg, Elizabeth McCoy of Byron, Ga., Jessica Potter of Fennville, Mich., Jonda Chapman of Norris and Tammy Elliott of Liberty.

A memorial service will beheld at 3 p.m. on June 6, in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.

Flowers will be accepted.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory-Downtown, Easley.

HELEN LOUISE ELLENBURG (HINEY)

PICKENS — Helen Louise Ellenburg (Hiney), 93, faithful mother and loving wife of 38 years to the late Rev. James Anthony Ellenburg, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, June 3, 2024, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born Jan. 19, 1931, in Oconee County, Hiney was the daughter of the late George Holcombe and Ila Patterson Holcombe. Hiney was the greatest mother in the world. She was a charter member of Northside Baptist Church in Pickens. Her favorite hobbies included knitting and crocheting, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her children, Cindy Ellenburg Anthony (Robert), Tommy Lee Ellenburg (Angie) and Sammy Ellenburg (Karen), all of Pickens; grandchildren, Shannon Ellenburg, Brent Ellenburg, Eric Holcombe, Tiffany Moss and Taylor Ellenburg; great-grandchildren, Miles Ellenburg, Hank Ellenburg, Nevaeh Ellenburg, Arie Ellenburg, Gigi Ellenburg, Jace Holcombe, Bella Little, Tucker Hayes, Adley Hayes, Linley Ellenburg and Luke Ellenburg; and siblings, Hershel Holcombe, Evelyn Gilstrap, Betty Whitlock, Roberta Pace, Darlene Madden, Linda McCall, Doug Holcombe, Jerry Holcombe and Dwight Holcombe.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Ellenburg was predeceased by a son, Ernest Ellenburg, and a brother, Glenn Holcombe.

Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. June 6 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home in Pickens, with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens. Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Ellenburg family.

 

MICHAEL DAVID ELDRIDGE

PICKENS — Michael David Eldridge, 67, of Pickens, died Saturday, June 1, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

A native of Shreveport, La., he spent many years in Houston, Texas, before moving to South Carolina in 2006. He was a graduate of Aldine High School in Houston and completed a culinary degree at Greenville Technical College. He held numerous positions, including sous chef, sales, online reservationist and manufacturing. He was an avid nature photographer.

The husband of 36 years to Karen Keith Eldridge, he was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marge Eldridge.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are a daughter, Annie Eldridge of Houston; a son, Michael Eldridge Jr. of Houston; two sisters, Susan Brown (Steve) of Schertz, Texas, and Carolyn Ketchie of Carrollton, Texas; three brothers, John Eldridge Jr. “Bud” of Cibolo, Texas, Ronnie Eldridge (Sherry) of Brenham, Texas, and Harold Eldridge (Janet) of Edmonton, Canada; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, John and Jenny Aartun of Sunset; and a large extended family.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Eldridge family.

 

MICHAEL BOWIE

EASLEY — With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Michael Eugene Bowie, a cherished son, brother and friend to many.

Born on Dec. 5, 1975, in Easley, he was a son of the late Allen Eugene Bowie.

He faced many challenges in his life, but through it all, he maintained a love for fishing, and working on cars with his dad. His passion for watching Bruce Lee films brought him great joy and entertainment.  He was a member of Maranatha Baptist Church, and he loved his Lord.

He is survived by his loving mother Vickie Bowie of Liberty; two children, Jarred Bowie and Addison Bowie; a sister, Marsha Alexander (David); two brothers, Mitchell Bowie (Dana) and Joshua Bowie; also surviving is a granddaughter, Maxcine Bowie.

Services and burial at Liberty Memorial Gardens will be private.  Michael leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience and a love for the simple pleasures in life. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

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

 

DENA GAIL HOLZER

CENTRAL — Dena Gail Holzer, 63, passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024.

Born Nov. 14, 1960, in Florida, Gail was the daughter of the late Andrew Smith and Della Mae Mullins. Mrs. Holzer loved to make people laugh. She made regular donations to St. Jude’s Hospital and the ASPCA. She loved the beach and riding in the mountains. She enjoyed horses and loved her dogs, Harley and Lady. She was an awesome cook and made the best chili beans and lasagna.

Survivors include her daughter, Misty Sanders (Rubin) of Clemson; grandchildren, Bryon Sanders and Ziva Sanders; siblings, Glenda Daly of Pickens, Bertha Bloomster (Robert) of Dahlonega, Ga., John Smith (Kelly) of Cape Canaveral, Fla., Rickey Banks of Pickens and Ronnie Banks of Pickens; and a special friend, Bobby Taylor of Liberty.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Holzer was predeceased by J.L Banks, the father who raised her, Barbara Taylor Banks, the mother who raised her, and her grandmother, Corrie Taylor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Gail’s honor may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, by calling (800) 805-5856, by mailing 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or by visiting stjude.org/.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Holzer family.

 

DOROTHY ‘DOT’ ANN JOHNSON

LIBERTY — Dorothy “Dot” Ann Johnson, 76, of Liberty, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024. Dorothy was formerly of Salem.

Born to the late George and Annie Reid, she was a member of Crosswell Apostolic Church in Easley, for more than 40 years. Dot and her husband were foster parents in Pickens County for around 10 years.

Dot was a bus driver for the School District of Pickens County for close to 10 years. She loved crocheting, sewing and gardening, and above all spending quality time with her family. She was always making gifts for the ones she loved. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, she would always go above and beyond to lend a helping hand.

Dot is survived by her two sons, Scott Johnson (Cindy) and Timmy Johnson (Holly); two daughters, Shaunna Green and Crystal Broome (Chris); 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Wanda Garren.

Dot was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Lloyd Henry Johnson; siblings, Gertrude Moore, Leon Reid and Mildred “Eloise” Proffitt; and her son-in-law, Cliff Green.

Funeral services for Dorothy were held May 31, at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home in Pickens. A committal service followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

MICK STEWART

CENTRAL — Our beloved Milford Jenkins ‘Mick’ Stewart passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at the age of 89.

Born in Six Mile, on Feb. 5, 1935, he was a devoted husband to Thoma Sue Broom Stewart, and a son of the late Burley James and Gertrude Messer Stewart.

He dedicated his working life to the construction industry, specifically at F.O. Day Company in Rockville, Md., as a heavy equipment operator and foreman. He is remembered for his skilled craftsmanship and unwavering work ethic, and some colorful early-morning drives to work with his sons.

In his leisure time, he found solace in the art of fishing, spending serene days on the water. He also had a passion for woodworking, finding joy in creating intricate pieces and turning wood he had foraged into works of art. It was in these moments of creation that Mick’s spirit shone brightest, leaving a legacy of creativity and dedication for all to witness. He loved to gift these pieces to his niece Cindy and would proudly display new pieces to everyone who came by to visit.

His beloved grandfather clock stands proudly in the living room, a constant reminder of the time, and of the mistaken engraving … ‘Milfrod’ Stewart. A Pickens jockey lot regular, he loved haggling and finding hidden treasures to add to his collection. His family will miss his strong hugs, his smile and his sense of humor. He was a man of few, usually gruff words. Carefully chosen for their audience, his words were always accompanied by a sly grin and a chuckle. Rubbing at that smile with his left hand, wrist clad in his gold watch, he was a creature of habit.

If you arrived at Mammaw and Pappaw’s on any given day in the last decade, he could be found tinkering. Whether it be with his (Ronald’s) tractor, his woodworking or his crops, the man was always busy. Growing okra, tomatoes, green beans and the best cucumbers you’ve ever had, he was an avid and talented gardener.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, Mickey Stewart (Angel) of Charleston, Ronald Stewart (Tonyia) of Central and Richie Stewart (Donna) of Central; a sister, Eloise Stewart Carver of Holcombe, Miss.; six grandchildren, Jessica Stokes, Dylan Stewart (Alyssa), Falcon Stewart, Trinity Stewart, Georgia May (Max) and Ella Stewart; and four beloved great-grandchildren, Lukas, Charlie Jane, Mazy and Bryson.

In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by eight siblings, Opal Lee Broom, James Wilton Stewart, Lola Faye Lusk, James Marvin Stewart, Etta Mae Breazeale, John Lesley Stewart and infant sisters Shirley Jean Stewart and Priscilla Gayle Stewart.

Graveside services to honor the life of Mr. Stewart were held on June 3 at the Mile Creek Baptist Church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Patriot Hospice, 4741 S.C. 153, Suite B, Easley SC 29642. We want to extend a special, heartfelt thank you to caregivers Audra and Melissa.

May his memory live on in the laughter we shared, the moments we cherish, and the legacy he leaves behind. May his spirit forever guide us. Rest in peace, Milford Jenkins Stewart Sr.

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

ANGELA REBECCA HAMILTON

ANDERSON — Angela Rebecca Hamilton, 56, loving wife of 17 years to David Wayne Hamilton, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Born Nov. 27, 1967, in Oconee County, Angela was the daughter of Frances Yolonda “Lonnie” Galloway Harris and the late Carzell Wayne Harris. Mrs. Hamilton was a CNA for many years and loved taking care of patients for more than 40 years. She loved her family dearly, and her grandchildren were her life.

Survivors include her husband, David Wayne Hamilton of the home; a daughter, Ashley Holder (Karen) of Anderson; two sons, Chad Holder (Katlyn) and Donnie Hamilton, both of Anderson; five grandchildren, Angel, Austin, Jasmine, CJ and Anthony; a sister, Tamara Johns of Westminster; a brother, Steven Harris (Connie) of Anderson; and her mother, Lonnie Harris.

In addition to her father, Mrs. Hamilton was predeceased by two daughters, Haley Holder and April Holder.

Mountain View Funeral Home – Pickens Chapel is serving the Hamilton family.

 

MILTON MAULDIN

LIBERTY — James Milton Mauldin, a cherished member of the Liberty community, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2024, at the Cottingham Hospice House.

Born on Nov. 11, 1942, in the same town he called home his entire life, he was a dedicated and hardworking individual who found his passion as an accountant in the manufacturing industry.

Throughout his career at TTI that spanned 46 years, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and a meticulous attention to detail that earned him the respect of his colleagues and peers. Upon retirement, he continued to lead a life of quiet dedication, always putting the needs of others before his own.

Milton was a humble soul, a gentle spirit who never sought the spotlight but instead found joy in helping those around him. He was a loyal member of Landmark Baptist Church, where his kindness and compassion touched the lives of many.

He was the last surviving member of his immediate family, and he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Milton’s life was held May 30 at the Liberty Mortuary chapel. Burial followed at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

In his passing, James Milton Mauldin leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love that will forever be cherished by those who had the honor of knowing him. He will be deeply missed by all who were touched by his gentle spirit and his unwavering compassion. May he rest in peace, knowing that his impact on the world will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers memorials are requested to the Tabernacles Children Home, 3931 White Horse Road, Greenville SC 29611.

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