DORIS K. CHILDS

PICKENS — Doris K. Childs, wife of the late Jake D. Childs, passed away on July 29, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born in Pickens County, she was a daughter of the late Earlie C. Simmons and the late Ollie Hudson Simmons and was the last member of her immediate family. Mrs. Childs retired from Swirl, Inc., where she worked for 43 years.

She was a member of Bethany Church of God. Doris loved to cook and sew and had a special talent for both. Later in life when she could no longer cook and sew, she became interested in coloring and delighted in sharing her beautiful pictures with family and friends.

She will be missed by many nieces, nephews and friends.In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by four brothers; Clarence, Garcie, Carland Garland Simmons; three sisters; Nina Anderson, Edna Tinsley and Gertrude Hughes.

A funeral service for Doris were held on Aug. 4, at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home, 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens, in the funeral home chapel. A committal service followed at Porters Chapel United Methodist Church, 151 E Preston McDaniel Rd, Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oconee Memorial Hospital for Hospice of The Foothills, 298 Memorial Drive Seneca, South Carolina.

The family will be at the home of her niece, Audrey Morris. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

MARTHA HINKLE MINGS

SPARTANBURG — Martha Hinkle Mings, 58, loving wife to James Mings, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Spartanburg Medical Center.

Born on July 5, 1967, in Spartanburg, Martha was the cherished daughter of the late Thomas Hinkle and Christine Hinkle.

Survivors include her husband, James Mings; sons, Jon Hinkle of Sunset and Justin Hinkle of North Augusta; sister, Mary Hinkle Harden; and brother, David Hinkle (Cindy).

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Mings was predeceased by her brother, Tommy Hinkle and brother-in-law, Joe Harden.

The family will hold a memorial service on Aug. 9, at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary of Grace United Methodist Church in Pickens. A visitation will be held prior to the service at 10 a.m.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Hinkle-Mings family.

 

DONNIE R. BAKER

EASLEY — Donnie R. Baker, 82, loving husband of 61 years to Jean E. Baker, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his family.

Born on June 11, 1943, in Pickens County, Donnie was the cherished son of the late Sam Baker and Leecie Holcombe Baker. A man of deep faith and strong values, Donnie was a devoted member of Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley, where his love for gospel music found a natural home.

A gifted vocalist, Donnie shared his talent by singing in several gospel quartets over the years. Whether performing in church or alongside fellow singers, music was one of his greatest joys, second only to the time he spent with his beloved family.

Donnie was known for his kind heart, easy smile, and a deep love for the simple pleasures in life. He enjoyed fishing on quiet days and could often be found selling at the Anderson Jockey Lot. He was a proud supporter of all things Clemson—whether it was football Saturdays or everyday conversations, his Tiger pride ran deep.

Above all, Donnie treasured his family. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he delighted in their company and accomplishments. His legacy is one of faith, love, music, and devotion—a life well-lived and deeply loved.

Survivors include his wife, Jean E. Baker of the home; daughter, Dawn Smith (Chris) of Greenville; son, Kevin Baker (Pam) of Easley; grandchildren, Austin, Cameron and Rylee; great-grandchild, LeiLani; and sisters, Joyce Jewell (Floyd) of Six Mile, Doris Bolding of Easley and Connie Baker of Pickens.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Baker was predeceased by his brothers, Charles Baker, Jimmie Baker and Merrell Baker.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Aug. 5, in the sanctuary of Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley. Burial followed the service at Rock Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.

Flowers will be accepted.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Baker family.

 

BILLY ‘BILL’ FRANK GAINES

EASLEY — Billy “Bill” Frank Gaines, 85, of Easley, loving husband of Claudia Gaines, passed away on Thursday, July 31, 2025.

Born on Feb. 18, 1940, in Hartwell, Ga., he was a son of the late Guy Gaines, Sr., and Pauline Moss Gaines. Bill was a proud graduate of Parker High School, class of 1958, and dedicated much of his life to his work as a Textile Machinist at G&F Machine Shop. Bill was well known for his fun-loving personality. He was the life of the party, always bringing joy and laughter to those around him. He cherished his family deeply and made it a point to show them how much he cared. In his free time, he enjoyed a variety of hobbies. Bill was an excellent pool player and had a great love for watching old Westerns. He was also an avid reader and had a special passion for football, particularly supporting the University of South Carolina Gamecocks and the Kansas City Chiefs.

In addition to his wife of 35 years, he is survived by two sons, Scott Gaines and Steve Gaines; two daughters, Deborah Flowers (Johnny Hood) and Angela Mann (Scott); four grandchildren, Jake Gaines, Zachary Gaines, Heather Nathan (Brett) and Holly Knight (Hunter); three and a half great-grandchildren, Kennedy Nathan, Cole Nathan and Beau Knight; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers, Guy Gaines Jr., Denver “Skeeter” Gaines and Edward Gaines; and a sister, Sara Gaines Beacham.

Services will be private.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.

 

MARTHA BISHOP BEASLEY

EASLEY — Martha Bishop Beasley, 73, of Easley, wife of Kenneth Lee Beasley, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025, surrounded by her family at Prisma Health – Cottingham Hospice House.

Born on Feb. 7, 1952, in Greensboro, N.C., she was a daughter of the late John Baggott “J.B.” and Anna Mae Dillard Bishop. Throughout her life, Martha was known for her unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister.

She was known for her strong-willed nature which made her all the more endearing to those who knew her. As much as she cherished her family, she had a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, Barkley, J.B. and Bear, (whom she may or may not have loved more than her family). Martha enjoyed shopping, or as she fondly referred to it, “retail therapy”, spending many days browsing the aisles of clothing stores.

She was an avid reader and could often be found lost in the pages of her favorite books. Martha had a knack for making family gatherings feel extra special as she insisted on using real plates, silverware, and always provided “fancy” napkins to elevate the simple moments shared with her family. Martha’s generosity was evident in everything she did, as she consistently offered support and kindness to those around her.

In addition to her husband of 41 years, she is survived by three daughters, Monica Lea Blanton, of Easley, Erica Rae Land (Steven), of Liberty, and Allison Beasley Gantt (Eric), of Liberty; two sisters, Teresa Caine and Judith Spillers, both of Greensboro, N.C.; six grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grandmommie”, Luke Land, Gavin Land, Aimee Spence (Josh), Lindsey Cox (Taylor), Cameron Beasley (Courtney) and Hunter Beasley; a daughter-in-law, Kim Beasley; five great-granddaughters; and one great-grandson on the way.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a son, Scott Beasley; and a brother, Larry Bishop.

The family will host a celebration of life at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dreamweaver Farms Carolina Poodle Rescue, carolinapoodlerescue.org, or to Prisma Health – Cottingham Hospice House, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, South Carolina 29672.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.

 

CHRISTA GALLOWAY

EASLEY — Christa Galloway, 54, loving wife of 24 years to Zane Galloway, passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Christa was born on July 17, 1971, in Easley, to the late Kenneth Watkins and Linda Spearman Watkins Holmes.

A devoted member of Landmark Baptist Church, Christa found great joy in her faith, her family, and her many creative pursuits. She had a passion for crafts — especially crocheting, quilting and jewelry-making — and delighted in sharing her handmade creations with those she loved. Above all, Christa cherished her church community and adored her grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

She is survived by her loving husband, Zane Galloway of the home; her son, Joshua Watkins (Meghan) of Six Mile; and three cherished grandchildren, Levi, Kensleigh and Andrew Watkins. She is also survived by her siblings, Melisa Cox (David) of Easley, Rodney Raby (Leann) of Pickens and Travis Raby (Jill) of Easley; along with many loving and caring nieces, nephews and cousins who will miss her dearly.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Galloway was predeceased by her daughter Kayla Renee Watkins and a sister, Sandra Jean Watkins.

A service was held on July 28 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home.  Burial followed at Greenlawn Cemetery.

Memorials in Mrs. Galloway’s honor can be made to Prisma Health Cancer Center at (864) 679-3900 or at 900 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605.

 

 

BOBBY JOE LESLEY

 

LIBERTY — Bobby Joe Lesley, 87, of Liberty, went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 1, 2025.

Born in Pickens, he was the last surviving son of the late Andrew J. Lesley and Kitty Poole Lesley. A devoted member of Bethel Independent Baptist Church, he was a Christian man who instilled the values of faith in his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and later pursued a career in electrical work until his retirement. He cherished time with his family, creating lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

Bobby is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Betty Frances Lesley; son, Johnny Valentine (Geralene); daughter, Tracy Parker; son, Ron Arrowood (Theresa); and  daughter, Keila Mize. He also leaves 38 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren to cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two sons, Lonnie Lesley and Larry Arrowood; grandson, Stevie Valentine; three brothers and two sisters.

A visitation for Bobby will be held Aug. 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home, 2402 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens.

A funeral service will be held, Aug. 7, at 2 p.m., Bethel Independent Baptist Church, 1037 Gentry Memorial Highway, Pickens. A committal service will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

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

 

WAYNE CLARK LYNCH

EASLEY – Wayne Clark Lynch, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 3, 2025.

Mr. Lynch was born on Aug. 29, 1942, in Pickens, to the late Carl F and Loie Clark Lynch. He retired from the South Carolina Department of Transportation.  Mr. Lynch was a member of Arial Baptist Church.

Mr. Lynch is survived by a sister, Eleanor Penkowski; two sister in laws, Shelby Anders and Sandra Berryhill (Greg); five nephews, Gary Penkowski, Kerry Penkowski (Sue), Jonathan Anders (Caroline), Michael Anders (Beth), David Berryhill (Emily); one niece, Jessica Massey (Jordan); and many great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Lynch was preceded in death by his beloved wife Martha Anderson Lynch.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. on Aug. 6, at Hillcrest Memorial Park in the chapel of the mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local charity of your choosing.

A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting dillardFunerals.com Dillard Funeral Home Pickens.