LARRY GENE CANTRELL

CENTRAL — Larry Gene Cantrell, 69, passed away Sept. 21, 2026, in South Carolina.

Born Aug. 16, 1957, and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Larry lived life on his own terms. His journey eventually took him south to Virginia Beach, Va. Later, when his father became ill, Larry returned to Cleveland to help care for his parents. He played a key role in relocating them to his father’s birthplace of Pickens, where Larry also spent his remaining years.

A skilled craftsman, Larry was self-employed as a carpenter for many years. He had a talent for working with his hands and took immense pride in creating things built to last. When he was not working, Larry could often be found fishing, riding his Harley, playing pool or watching classic Westerns.

Known for his playful spirit, Larry loved to joke around, flirt and bring lighthearted energy into every room. He was quick with a smile, loved a good laugh and never met a stranger.

Larry is survived by his three daughters, Crystal Rodriguez (Jimmy) of Elyria, Ohio, Twilla Snyder (Robert) of Grafton, Ohio, and Mandy VanCooney (Joe) of Spencer, Ohio; brother, John Cantrell of Farmville, Va.; sister, Sandie Cantrell of Central; 16 grandchildren, Nikki House (Andrew), Brooke Virant (Dalton Humphrey), Brittany Zollars (Joe), Justin Masaitis, Hailey Rodriguez, Austin Gill (Sara), Ashley Watson (Eric), Ariah Snyder, Avery Snyder (Brenna), Autumn Snyder (Joey), Aidan Snyder, Abigail Snyder, Alec Snyder, Anson Snyder, Jack VanCooney and Dan VanCooney; 18 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; niece, Jessica Angelo (Edison); and nephews, Steven Hogue (Heather) and Justin Cantrell (Ashley).

He was preceded in death by his father, John Cantrell; mother, Vonda Cantrell; and nephew, Jason Hogue.

His quick wit, craftsmanship and love for life’s simple pleasures will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Cantrell family.

 

REV. MARION MITCHELL

EASLEY — Rev. Marion Foster Mitchell, 92, husband of Betty Adams Mitchell, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026.

Born in Abbeville, he was a son of the late George Francis Mitchell Sr. and Cinderella Harris Mitchell. Rev. Mitchell graduated from Fruitland Bible College and Anderson College. A retired Baptist minister, he served as associate pastor at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley and also served Cross Plains Baptist Church in Travelers Rest and New Prospect Baptist Church in Hartwell, Ga. He was employed for many years at the Singer plant in Anderson. He was a member of Rock Springs Baptist Church and a U.S. Army veteran.

Rev. Mitchell loved animals and raised numerous registered cows and goats. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and building. He loved his church family and was always there when he was needed. A loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he will be remembered for his love and sense of humor.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 27 years, are his son, Stephen Mitchell (Trina) of Taylors; daughters, Miriam “Sunshine” Darlene Leister of Travelers Rest and Gloria Frances Powell of Anderson; brother, Herbert Mitchell (Nancy) of Belton; sisters, Nellie Bullock of Texas and Doris Holland of Anderson; grandchildren, Ticcoa Leister, Joshua Leister (Sarah), Jordan Leister, Kasey Wallace (Taylor), Amanda Harper (Allen), Mitchell Powell and Patrick Powell; and great-grandchildren, Waylon Wallace, Leland Wallace, Sawyer Wallace, Bellamy Wallace, Elliot Wallace, Abigail Harper, Luke Harper and Linleigh Harper.

In addition to his parents, Rev. Mitchell was predeceased by his son, Marion F. Mitchell Jr.; brothers, George Mitchell Jr. and Tommy Mitchell; sisters, Sara Mitchell, Pauline Bennett, Mary Allen and Emily Park; and granddaughter, Jessica Leister.

A funeral service was held Sept. 25 at Rock Springs Baptist Church. Burial followed in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made in memory of Rev. Mitchell to Rock Springs Baptist Church, 201 Rock Springs Road, Easley, SC 29642.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com. Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory–Downtown, Easley, is serving the family.

 

PEGGY THOMAS CORN CRUM

EASLEY — Peggy Thomas Corn Crum, 87, wife of the late Robert Corn Jr. and the late James Ross Crum, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, she was a daughter of the late Eugene and Florence Simmons Thomas. Mrs. Crum graduated from Pickens High School and retired from Alice Manufacturing Company’s Elljean Plant after 24 years of service. She was a member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church.

Peggy loved gardening and quilting. For 10 years, she made quilts to be auctioned at the Pumpkintown Festival. She loved her family dearly, and she always had a bright smile on her face. Peggy loved God and sharing her testimony, especially a quote she learned from a pastor when she was young: “You’re hanging over hell on a rotten cornstalk.” After hearing it, she knew she did not want to go there.

Surviving are her son, Travis Hughes of Piedmont; daughters, Sharon Ashley of Boiling Springs, Angela Ragsdale (Tony) of Easley and Maria Broome of Easley; brothers, Harley Thomas (Eula Mae) of Elberton, Ga., Douglas Thomas (Rosemary) of Pickens, Larry Thomas (Diane) of Smyrna, Ga., and Gary Thomas (Paula) of Pickens; sisters, Doris Wilson of Taylors and Sybil Clark of Marietta; 11 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and great-great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husbands, Mrs. Crum was predeceased by her son, Dale Corn; daughter, Carol York; brother, Weldon Thomas; sisters, Bonnie Burgin and Joyce McCall; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services were held Sept. 22 at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church. Burial followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Visit robinsonfuneralhomes.com. Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory–Downtown, Easley, is serving the family.

 

 

JERRY O. WATSON

 

PICKENS — Jerry O. Watson, 84, loving husband of 62 years to Lou C. Watson, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born Jan. 12, 1942, in Pickens County, Jerry was the beloved son of the late Willis O. Watson and Evelyn Duckworth Watson. He was a U.S. Army National Guard veteran. Jerry was a member of Pickens First Baptist Church and enjoyed attending as long as he was able.

Jerry was a devoted sports fan, especially of the Clemson Tigers and the Pickens Blue Flame. He loved attending games and supporting his teams. In his younger years, he enjoyed coaching Little League and making a difference in the lives of young athletes. He also loved family vacations and the memories they created. Above all, Jerry loved his family and treasured their time together.

Survivors include his wife, Lou Watson of the home; daughters, Debbie Stewart (Gil) and Jennifer Patterson (Greg); grandchildren, Luke Stewart and Leah Stewart; siblings, Miriam Waldrop, Carolyn Pace (Lewis), David Watson (Joy) and Sheila Tinsley (Whit); sisters-in-law, Pat Sanders and Lynda Payne (Jimmy); special nephew, Blake Seaborn; and many other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Watson was predeceased by his brother, John Watson.

A graveside service was held Sept. 26 at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jerry’s honor may be made to Pickens First Baptist Church, 406 E. Main St., Pickens, SC 29671, or Prisma Health Hospice of the Foothills–Seneca, 390 Keowee School Road, Seneca, SC 29672.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Watson family.

 

MARY ENID JONES

PICKENS — Mary Enid Jones, 89, loving wife of the late James H. Jones, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, at Lila Doyle Post Acute in Seneca.

Born Feb. 27, 1937, in Pickens County, Enid was the cherished daughter of the late Major and Sadie Dorsey Stewart. She was a member of Mountain Grove Baptist Church in Pickens. Enid spent many years working in local sewing facilities, where she had a special talent for creating beautiful things with just a little cloth and thread.

Enid was a wonderful cook, especially known for her homemade biscuits and banana pudding. She loved sweet tea and her family, and she shared a close bond with her sister, Vivian. She took pride in keeping a tidy home and enjoyed growing flowers and caring for her beloved cats.

Survivors include her daughter, Charlotte Diane Anderson (Richard), and sister, Vivian E. Stewart, both of Pickens.

A graveside service was held Sept. 28 at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

The family thanks Interim Hospice and Lila Doyle Post Acute for their concern and compassion.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Jones family.

 

JEAN PAIGE WATSON

LIBERTY — Jean Paige Chastain Watson passed away peacefully Sept. 24, 2026, at age 101.

Born July 27, 1925, in Clemson, formerly known as Calhoun, she was the widow of Hoyt Jackson “Jack” Watson and a daughter of the late Edward Earle and Estelle Vernon Chastain. Jean touched many lives through her positivity, generosity and unwavering faith.

A devoted homemaker, Jean was known for her talent in the kitchen and her love of cooking and baking. Whether preparing a meal or a sweet treat, she shared what she made with family, friends and her community.

Her love for children shone through her work as a home economics teacher and her involvement at Liberty First Baptist Church, where she was a member for more than 50 years. She cherished the opportunity to inspire and nurture young minds. Her dedication to her church and community reflected her giving heart, and she will be dearly missed.

Jean is survived by her beloved sister, June Finley (Quillen), and several cherished nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, George V. Chastain.

Visitation will be held from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Oct. 1 at Liberty Mortuary. A private graveside service will be held at the Old Stone Church cemetery in Clemson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Liberty First Baptist Church, 400 Edgemont Ave., Liberty, SC 29657, or Pickens County Meals on Wheels, 349 Edgemont Ave., Liberty, SC 29657.

The family thanks the staff of Piedmont Post-Acute for the loving care given to Jean over the past several years.

Memories and condolences may be shared at libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

 

RICHARD DAVID “DICKIE BOB” HENDRICKS

CENTRAL — Richard David “Dickie Bob” Hendricks, 65, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at Atrium Health Pineville Hospital.

Born April 15, 1961, in Easley, Dickie Bob was the beloved son of the late Dick and Dora Ann Griffin Hendricks. He was a Freemason and a devoted believer in Jesus Christ. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and deer hunting. He had a great sense of humor, loved making people laugh and never passed up a good joke.

Dickie Bob also enjoyed riding motorcycles and had a passion for music. A talented musician, he played both bass guitar and guitar. His music, humor and love of the outdoors will remain special memories for those who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his daughters, Amanda Ann Hendricks (Chris McNeely) of Columbus, Ohio, and Kenna Hendricks of Central; grandchildren, Kaegan Hendricks, Cameron McNeely and Cooper McNeely; sister, Cindy Hinkle of Sunset; and many other loving family members. In addition to his parents, Mr. Hendricks was predeceased by the mothers of his daughters, Kimberly Roberts and Carol Hendricks, and his special friend, Sue Roe. Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Oct. 2 in the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow at 2 p.m.

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

 

FRED AUSTIN SANDS

SIX MILE — Fred Austin Sands, 39, of Six Mile, passed away Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, at his home, leaving behind a family who loved him beyond words and a lifetime of memories they will never forget.

Born May 26, 1987, in Rockingham, N.C., Fred was the son of Billy Ray Sands and Barbara Sullivan Sands.

Fred was one of a kind. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Hardworking and dependable, he was always willing to lend a hand. A jack of all trades, there was not much Fred could not fix. If something was broken, he would figure it out, often in his own unique way. Family and friends knew they could call him when they needed help.

Fred enjoyed working with his hands, scrapping and visiting scrap yards, but nothing compared with the love he had for his family.

For 21 years, Fred shared his life with his loving fiancée, Kristi Walden, whom he always called his “Beautiful.” Together, they built a life, raised a family, faced its ups and downs and made more than two decades of memories. Their life together was filled with ordinary moments that became a lifetime of laughter, struggles, inside jokes and family days.

His children were his pride and happiness. Fred was happiest with his Beautiful and the children. His love for them showed not only in what he said, but in what he did every day.

Fred is survived by his Beautiful, Kristi Walden of Six Mile; mother, Barbara Sands of Liberty; children, Shayla Alexander of Central, Kyler Walden, Braylyn Alexander and Charlotte Day, all of Six Mile, and Naliyah Washington of Liberty; siblings, Connie Graham of Liberty, John Clark (Alicia) of Liberty, Alma Mathis of Easley and Billie Jean Sands of Easley; and best friend, Anthony Owens (Madison) of Easley, whom Fred loved as a brother.

He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, including great-nieces and great-nephews, extended family members and countless friends whose lives he touched.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, Billy Ray Sands.

Thirty-nine years was nowhere near enough time for those who loved Fred. His family will miss his voice, his laughter, his helping hands, the sound of him working on something and simply knowing he was there. There will be countless moments when someone wishes they could call Fred once more — to ask a question, get his help, tell him something or hear his voice.

Fred was not perfect, and he never needed to be. He was Fred, and to those who loved him, there will never be another like him.

He was deeply loved. He will be deeply missed. And he will never be forgotten.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Sands family.

 

GLENDA DIANNE FRANKLIN

LIBERTY — Glenda Dianne Franklin, 74, loving wife of the late Hoyt Edward Franklin, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born Nov. 12, 1957, in Ringgold, Ga., Glenda was the beloved daughter of the late Jake and Daisey Hooper Rhodes. She was a member of Full Gospel Tabernacle in Piedmont and enjoyed reading her Bible and growing in her faith.

Glenda dearly loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her great joy. She also had a special love for her dog, a cherished companion. Above all, she will be remembered for the love she had for her family.

Survivors include her son, William Franklin (Tonya) of Liberty; daughter, Tammy Camp (Brad) of Pickens; grandchildren, Meagan Highsmith (Billy) of Seneca, Courtney Camp of Pickens, Justin Franklin of Easley and Tristin Franklin of Liberty; great-grandchildren, Karsyn, Kyler, Bailey and Creedence; siblings, Jess Edward Rhodes (Frances) of Gainesville, Ga., Richard Rhodes (Tess) of Simpsonville, Loretta Palmer of Gainesville, Ga., and John Daryl Rhodes of Jackson County, Ga.; many nieces and nephews; and special friend, Guy Whitfield.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Franklin was predeceased by her daughter, Debbie Walls, and siblings, Betty Johnson, Pedab Rhodes, Judy Clark and Rita Pressley.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Franklin family.

 

PETE MCGAHA

EASLEY — Larry Neil “Pete” McGaha, 77, beloved husband of Phyllis Elaine Rogers McGaha, passed away at his home on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026.

Born in Greenville, he was a son of the late Loyd Nichols “Slick” McGaha and Clara Williams McGaha.

Pete retired from Confluence, formerly Perception, after more than 20 years of dedicated service. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He enjoyed spending time on the lake fishing and working in his sawmill at home. He also attended United Wesleyan Church.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 53 years, Phyllis, are a daughter, Suzanne McGaha Beddingfield (David) of Easley; grandchildren, Allie Moody (Dylan), Arabella Moody Few (Noah), Eli Moody, Parker Beddingfield and Elliot Walters; brothers, Stan McGaha and Steve McGaha (Von Williams) of Easley; a bonus son, Scotty Nicholson; and cousins who were raised by his parents, Lucille Ware, Frances Mote and Dee McGaha.

A special thank you to Beth and Katie of Gentiva Hospice for the warm and compassionate care they provided to Pete.

A memorial service was held Sept. 26 in the chapel at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.

Memorials may be made to Upstate Warrior Solution, 770 Pelham Road, Greenville, SC 29615, or Gentiva Hospice, 750 Executive Center Drive #250, Greenville, SC 29615.

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

 

CONNIE LYNN WARD

CENTRAL — It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Connie Lynn Swords Ward, who left us peacefully on Sept. 27, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on Oct. 23, 1954, in Greenville, Connie was the widow of Michael Leroy Ward and a daughter of the late Leroy and Ann Entrekin Swords. She brightened the lives of all who knew her and was a true pillar of love and strength for her family and friends.

Connie was a proud 1973 graduate of Liberty High School, where her warm heart and infectious smile left a lasting impression on classmates and teachers alike. For many years, she dedicated herself to the textile industry at Alice Manufacturing, where her contributions were valued by her coworkers. Connie later transitioned to a career as a certified nursing assistant, caring for residents at Easley Nursing Center and Blue Ridge Nursing Home. Her compassion and nurturing spirit touched the lives of many.

Connie was a devoted mother to her daughter, Terezia Garrick (Rick), and son, Steven Nagy, and a loving sister to Zena Smith and Mike Swords (Ann). She was a cherished grandmother to Jacob, Ethan and Eli Garrick. She also had several nieces and nephews who she was very fond of and was a friend to many. Her generosity and caring nature were evident in every interaction, and she always put family first, creating countless memories that we will cherish forever.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Marilyn Swords, and a brother-in-law, Keith Smith.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through both joyous and challenging times. Connie loved to spend time with her family, sharing stories, laughter and love. She reminded us all of the importance of kindness and connection.

Loved ones gathered together to celebrate Connie’s beautiful life with a memorial service on Sept. 30 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel.

Memorials may be made to Potter’s Clay Building Fund, P.O. Box 2888, Easley, SC 29641.

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

 

BARRY PETER GONSALVES

PICKENS — Barry Peter Gonsalves, of Pickens, passed away peacefully on Aug. 19, 2026, at the age of 84.

His life, his presence and the memories he leaves behind will continue to be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

Palmetto Cremation Service is assisting with arrangements.

 

WILLIAM D. ‘BILL’ ELLENBURG

PICKENS — William D. “Bill” Ellenburg, 79, loving husband of 59 years to Catherine Ellenburg, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born May 12, 1947, in Pickens County, Bill was the beloved son of the late Clifton and Lois Ellenburg. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He worked for Pickens County Public Works and dedicated many years to serving his community.

Survivors include his wife, Catherine Ellenburg of the home; daughter, Kim Burgess (Michael) of Sunset; son, Scott Ellenburg (Kristin) of Easley; grandchildren, Tyler Burgess (Anabelle), Hudson Burgess (Kendall), Riley Gaines and Luke Ellenburg; great-grandson, Kolter Burgess; and sister, Cynthia Duncan.

A graveside service was held Sept. 25 at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Ellenburg family.