ROBERT THOMAS GIEHLS

EASLEY — Robert Thomas Giehls, 64, of Easley, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Born in Lexington, Ky., Robert spent his early childhood in Kentucky before moving to Tallahassee, Fla., where he grew up and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1979.

From a young age, Robert showed great promise as a golfer and competed throughout Florida as a junior golfer. His love of the game inspired him to attend Lake City Community College, where he earned a degree in turf management and golf course operations. He went on to enjoy a successful career as a golf course superintendent for many years before later transitioning into sales.

While golf was an important part of his early life, Robert’s interests eventually expanded to include cars, boats, and motorcycles. He had a remarkable gift for making friends wherever he went.

People were drawn to his warm heart, quick wit, generous spirit and fun-loving personality. He leaves behind countless family and friends who will cherish the memories, laughter and adventures they shared with him.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Linda Lorraine Scheerer Giehls; his daughters, Marie Lin Graziano (Dan) of Easley and Ria Lee Goodwin of Portland, Ore.; his sister, Mary Ellen Giehls Hawthorne (Mark) of Panama City Beach, Fla.; and his cherished grandchildren, Vance Graziano, Juliana Graziano and Addison Goodwin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Giehls Jr. and Bonnie Jean Blair Giehls.

The family will host a celebration of life in the parlor of Easley Presbyterian Church at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Robert’s honor.

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

JAMES STEWART RAY

EASLEY — James Stewart Ray of Easley, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 73.

He was born June 29, 1952, to Stewart and Lucille Ray in Washington County, Tenn. After high school, James entered the fire protection field as a fire sprinkler foreman and designer. He dedicated more than 40 years of his life to saving other lives and protecting property. James married Linda Ray in 1973, and together they shared 54 wonderful years. He loved fishing, hunting, playing golf and spending time with his grandchildren.

James is survived by his wife, Linda; daughter, Kim Westberry (Aaron); and grandchildren, Alex Westberry and Kate Westberry. He is also survived by his brother, David Ray (Diana); his brother, Wayne Ray (Elaine); his sister, Jenny Martin (Danny); and his sister, Faye Ray; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside funeral service was held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on July 3.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests for donations to be made to The Prisma Health Baptist Easley Foundation at prismahealth.org/giving/prisma-health-baptist-easley-foundation in his honor.

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

KATHERINE CARTEE

LIBERTY — With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Katherine Woodall Cartee on July 1, 2026, at the age of 95.

She was born on March 30, 1931, in Walhalla and was the widow of Joseph Lane Cartee. She was the daughter of the late Lawrence and Lula Denny Woodall.

She was a devoted mother, cherished educator and beloved friend to many.

Mrs. Cartee devoted more than 25 years to the students of Liberty Elementary School, after beginning her teaching journey at Liberty First Baptist Church Kindergarten. Education was her passion and a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. She brought joy, knowledge and encouragement to countless young minds. She was also known for her special talent in creating beautiful and memorable bulletin boards.

Her undergraduate studies began at Anderson College, where she served as president of the Baptist Student Union and was elected May Queen. She later completed her undergraduate degree at Central Wesleyan College. She continued her education by earning a master’s degree from Clemson University, reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning.

Her deeply rooted faith was a guiding force in her life. She was a devoted member of Rock Springs Baptist Church, where she taught the Willing Workers Sunday School Class. Prior to her time at Rock Springs, she was a member of Liberty First Baptist Church, where she faithfully served as a leader in the Girls’ Auxiliary ministry.

Katherine’s life was rich with love and the warmth of family. She leaves behind her two sons, Gary Cartee and Greg Cartee (Naw May Pearl Cartee), along with her grandson, Travis. She is also survived by two sisters, Bette Hair and Denny Neilson, and a brother, Gary Michael Woodall.

In addition to her husband and parents she was preceded in death by a brother, S.Y. Woodall.

Her family held a special place in her heart. She expressed her love in countless ways: reading to her sons and grandson when they were young, sharing her renowned culinary talents, and offering sincere, enthusiastic encouragement in all they did.

Funeral services to honor the life of Mrs. Cartee were conducted on July 7 at the Liberty Mortuary chapel. Burial followed at Oconee Memorial Park.

As we gather to honor Mrs. Cartee’s remarkable life, we celebrate her legacy of love, service, and devotion. May her spirit continue to guide us as we remember her kindness, beautiful smile, and passion for life. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to In Touch Ministries, PO Box 7900, Atlanta, GA 30357; Rock Springs Baptist Church, 201 Rock Springs Road, Easley SC 29642; or Liberty First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 207, Liberty SC 29657.

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