BOYD LEON LEDFORD

LIBERTY — Boyd Leon Ledford, also known as “Pine Knot,” (a nickname lovingly given to him by his father because he was “as tough as a pine knot”) went to be with his Lord and Savior Saturday, July 18, 2026.

Born in Blairsville, Ga., in the Ivy Log Community, he was a beloved son of the late Boyd Ledford and Dessie Wimpey Ledford.

Leon proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1962 until 1966. He served under the Kennedy administration in the Presidential Honor Guard. After his military service, Leon, otherwise known by his CB handle “Pine Knot,” began trucking around the country. He was an enthusiastic participant in truck shows and was a dedicated member of the Palmetto Upstate Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society. He was also a member of the Central and Liberty Hardees Breakfast Club.

He is a member of Prayer Baptist Church in Central. He was a member of Ivy Log Baptist Church in Blairsville, Ga., prior to moving to South Carolina.

Above all else, Leon loved and cherished his family.

Leon is survived by his children, Daryl Ledford (Melissa) of Sandy Springs, Jack Ledford (Robin) of Liberty and Carol Ledford Breazeale (Tom) of Easley; his grandchildren, Brandon Fowler, Megan Fowler Ahart (Christopher), Grace Ledford, DJ Ledford, Katie Breazeale Willis (Blake), United States Air Force Technical Sergeant (TSgt) Thomas Breazeale (Lori) of Anchorage, Ala., and Zachary Howard; his great-grandchildren, Savannah Fowler, Izzy Thomas, Wyatt Thomas, Owen Thomas and Caroline Ahart; and his siblings, Bob Ledford (Alma) of Clinton, Tenn., and Martha Ledford Davenport (Albert) of Blairsville, Ga.; numerous loving nieces and nephews, cousins who were like siblings; and special friends from coast to coast.

A visitation for Leon was held July 24 at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home in Central.

Funeral services were held July 25 in the chapel at Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home in Blairsville, Ga.

Burial followed at the Ivy Log Cemetery in his beloved Ivy Log Community in Union County, Ga.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to the Palmetto Upstate Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society at 9558 Neely Ferry Road, Waterloo, SC 29384, or by contacting Robert Brock at Brocky45@prtcnet.com.

An honorary truck convoy escorted Pine Knot from Duckett-Robinson in Central on July 25.

 

CLAUDIA ‘JOANNE’ CATER

PICKENS — Claudia Joanne Cater, affectionately known as “Joanne,” 82, of Pickens, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

Born in Pickens County, Joanne was the beloved daughter of the late Claude and Blanche Kinsey and the loving wife of the late Austin Cater.

Joanne was a devoted mother, a cherished grandmother and a faithful Christian whose greatest joy was her family. She loved the simple pleasures of life, especially spending time at home, relaxing on her porch while watching the deer in the nearby field. A dedicated member of Mountain Grove Baptist Church, Joanne lived her life guided by her faith and kindness. She eagerly anticipated the arrival of her first great-grandchild, a blessing that brought her great excitement and happiness.

She also treasured the special times spent shopping with her beloved sisters, Gale and Susan.

Joanne is survived by her grandchildren, Katelyn Davis (David) of Pickens and Jayden Chappell of Pickens; her sisters, Gale McClellan of Pickens and Susan Kinsey of Pickens; and her nieces, Ashley Merck (Danny) of Easley and Crystal Turner of Liberty; and great-granddaughter, Josephine, of Pickens.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Shana Cole.

Mountain View Funerals and Cremations are honored to serve the Cater family during this time.

 

TAYLOR JOE ‘T.J.’ LEWIS

PICKENS — Taylor Joe Lewis, affectionately known as “T.J.,” 93, of Pickens, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20, 2026.

Born on Sept. 6, 1932, in Pickens, T.J. was the beloved son of the late Virgil and Mildred Lewis.

T.J. was a faithful Christian and a devoted member of Rock Springs Baptist Church. He found great joy in spending time with his family and loved traveling, especially taking trips to the mountains. He will be remembered for his kind spirit, steadfast faith and the love he shared with those around him.

T.J. is survived by his sons, Tony Lewis of Liberty and Terry Lewis (Veronica) of Central; five cherished grandchildren; his dear friend and caregiver, Sherry; and the many caring neighbors who faithfully looked after him by cutting his grass and helping him remain in the home he loved.

In addition to his parents, T.J. was preceded in death by his sons, Martin Lewis and Fred Lewis; and his siblings, Berce Lewis, Lester Lewis, Wallace Lewis, Garvin Lewis, Hildred Lewis, Velma Waldrop and Evelyn Porter.

A graveside service was held on July 27 at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Missionary Baptist Church School, 979 John St., Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is honored to serve the Lewis family

MARIA GILLESPIE

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maria Gillespie, who left this world peacefully on July 22, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born on Jan. 21, 1940, in Tampa, Fla., she was the widow of William “Bill” Gillespie Sr. and a daughter of the late Nicholas and Thelma Malphurs Macchiarella.

Maria lived a life filled with love, dedication and resilience, leaving behind a legacy cherished by those who knew her.

Maria achieved numerous accomplishments, where her warm spirit and kind smile touched the lives of countless patrons. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when she opened her first business, (Maria’s) Dress Shop in Mobile, Ala., growing that business into five locations. Farmers Hill Pet Grooming, which developed into five locations in South Carolina, achieved national recognition for the largest pet grooming facility nationally. Maria’s determination along with Bill’s ingenuity jointly owned and operated Southern Vinyl Siding and Window Manufacturing Inc. in Liberty. Together they built a profound legacy, achieving awards such as Manufacture of the Year Award by the S.C. Chamber of Commerce and the Golden Torch Award presented by the BBB. After Bill’s passing, she continued to excel by achieving the Upstate Business Woman of the year Award. Maria expanded her presence in civil work by stepping up to president of the Liberty Chamber of Commerce, a role that led her into Leadership Pickens County, where she served on the board of regents, Pickens County Alliance, Pickens/Oconee County Coalition and briefly served on the board for the school of business at Southern Wesleyan University, as well as other various local boards. Maria holds not one but two keys to the city of Liberty for her contributions. Maria’s involvement in civic and charitable organizations became her passion. Maria was very proud of her involvement with the development of Mary’s House, which benefited and sheltered battered women. Maria served various roles with her active participation in the Order of the Eastern Star and Daughters of the Nile, as well as her cherished membership as order of the Amaranth serving both South Carolina and Georgia. Positions served were Royal Matron twice, as well as various Grand Officer positions and Grand Representative appointments. Through these organizations, she raised money for diabetic research and disabled children. At the age of 76, Maria pivoted using her extensive construction background and strong leadership abilities. She obtained her S.C. real estate license and hung them under her daughter’s BIC license with Southern Real Estate and Development Inc., once again allowing her to work closely with her family and serve her community. Maria became a trusted figure in the construction industry with her S.C. Builders License, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues and clients alike.

Those left to cherish her memory include her four children, Deborah Stehle (Chuck) and their daughter Tia Stehle; Francine “Tor-Tor” Powers (Aaron) and their children, Brittney Casagrande and Shaun Powers (Karen); Vikki Blair (Kenneth) and their children, Tyler and Austin Blair; and William “Poe” Gillespie (Detta), along with their children Matt and Amy Gillespie; a stepson, Anthony Gillespie; four stepdaughters, Constance Moody, Tracy Dean, Sandra Bryant and Carolyn Gordon; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral services to honor Maria’s life will be conducted at 11 a.m. July 29 at New Image Church, 311 Anderson Highway, Easley SC 29642. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Liberty Memorial Gardens.

Maria Gillespie will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. May she rest in peace.

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

 

MICHAEL ‘CORNBREAD’

ANTHONY HEATH MOORE SR.

SIX MILE — Michael “Cornbread” Anthony Heath Moore Sr., 43, passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Baptist Easley Hospital.

Born on May 16, 1983, in Greenville, Michael was the beloved son of the late Morris Sammy Leroy and Joyce Ann Miller Galloway.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life and loved spending time hunting, fishing, cruising, kayaking and cheering on the Clemson Tigers. Michael also had a passion for motorcycles, trucks and making memories with family and friends. Whether relaxing with his faithful dog, Milo, or simply enjoying the company of those he loved, Michael treasured every moment. Above all else, his greatest pride and joy were his children, and the love he shared with his family was the foundation of his life.

Mr. Moore is survived by his fiancé, Charity McCowan of Six Mile; his children, Anthony Moore Jr., Katelynn Moore and Brooklyn Moore, all of Six Mile, Kylie Flory (Christian) of Easley, and Bryson Gilbert, Peyton Gilbert and Kaydence Gilbert, all of Kentucky; brothers, Timothy Moore and Kevin Miller; the mother of his children, Toshia Anderson of Clemson; grandparents, Sammy and Rosalee Leroy of Central and Linda Moore of Six Mile; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Moore was predeceased by his parents, Morris Sammy Leroy and Joyce Ann Miller Galloway.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Moore family.

 

DORIS C WHITMIRE

LIBERTY — Mrs. Doris C Whitmire passed on July 24, 2026, at the age of 84, surrounded by her family.

Doris was born on Dec. 18, 1941, in Easley, to the late Elbert and Edith Patterson Chapman. Doris was a faithful member at Gap Hill Church of God in Six Mile. She loved to cook, and what she cherished most was the time she had with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Doris is survived by her two children, Gary Whitmire (Cynde) and Jeanna Stone; four grandchildren, Jonathan Stone (Lacey), Jared Stone (Keaira), Christen Perry (Kyle) and Taylor Sieberhagen (Jonny); six great-grandchildren; and her sister, Myrtle McJunkin.

In addition to her parents, Doris was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bobby Bruce Whitmire; and five siblings, her twin, Horace Chapman, James Chapman, Dennis Chapman, Homer Chapman and Betty Couch.

The funeral was conducted on July 28 in the chapel of Dillard Funeral Home.

Burial followed the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Whitmire family with their arrangements.

 

RICHARD DALE COBB

EASLEY — Richard Dale Cobb, 55, passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026, at AnMed Medical Center in Anderson.

Born on Oct. 5, 1970, in Pickens County, Richard was the beloved son of Peggy Parker and the late Roger Cobb.

Richard was a skilled brick and stone mason whose strong work ethic and dedication were evident in every project. Although a tragic workplace accident in early 2001 ended his career, it never defined him. He faced life’s challenges with resilience and a servant’s heart.

A devoted father, loving son, and loyal friend, Richard was someone you could always count on.

He would gladly give the shirt off his back to someone in need or make sure no one around him went hungry.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with family and friends. In recent years, he faithfully cared for his mother following the sudden loss of her husband, a true reflection of his selfless nature.

Richard’s kindness, generosity, and compassionate spirit touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Mr. Cobb is survived by his mother, Peggy Parker of Easley; daughter, Brooke Cobb (Kelsey), grandson, Tayden Dickson, and granddaughter, Kinleigh Dickson, all of Seneca; son, Ricky Cobb (Laura), and grandson, Grayson Cobb, both of Walhalla; son, Levi Cobb (Kayla), and granddaughter, Lilah Cobb, both of Williamston; daughter, Destiny Dunn (Adrian), and grandsons, Coway and Chief Dunn; and cousin, Chasity.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roger Cobb; stepfather, Greg Parker; granddaughter, Carolina Cobb; best friend, Rick Chandler, and both of his maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Cobb family.

 

DEBRA BLACKSTON

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Debra Blackwell Blackston, 72, who went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with her family by her side.

Born on Sept. 25, 1951, in Walhalla, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Annie Pearl Young Blackwell.

She was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, and a cherished friend to many.

She began singing as a child and that continued into her adult life.  She and her sister Pam sang with Roy Knight then eventually they would move on and start a group with her husband called “The Destinations”.  For years they would travel around and sing and witness for the Lord.  Their children would soon step into their Aunt Pam’s role and continue.  Deb was always a prayer warrior; she would lend an ear or a shoulder to anyone.  She took on roles at church with James, leading VBS and children’s church.  She was active in church choir until she couldn’t anymore.  But she never wavered from her faith in God. Her last seven weeks of her life she was on a mission like no other, to make sure everyone was ready to meet the Lord.  She would tell them all, you need to get “Rooted and Grounded” in God’s word, so when that Devil tries to knock you down, you just show him the door and that God’s got you.

Mrs. Blackston had fulfilling career as an Agent with Modern Woodmen of America, where she dedicated herself to serving the community through her work. Her professionalism and compassion for others made her a respected and beloved figure among her colleagues and clients.

An active member of Venture Church, Debra embraced her faith with a passionate spirit, sharing her love for God and her community. She found great joy in nurturing her faith and fostering a supportive environment for her family and friends.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband, James M. Blackston; her two daughters, Tonja Hart (Stanley) and Michelle Brock (Charlie); her loving grandchildren, Ashton Brock (Kelsey), Dalton Brock, Macy Brock (Johnny Allen), Molly Brock, Chonda Blackston, Seth Hart (Kayla), Toya Hart, Brad Hart (Kera) and Stephanie Hart; her great grandchildren, Hattie Grace Brock, James Emory Brock, Madison Hart, Alivia Hart, Cayden Hart, Charles Dunlap, Jeremiah Hart, Bailey Hart, Chloe Hart, Zay Price (Chloe), Amari Chamblee; her great-great grandson, Presley Briggs Price; her two sisters, Phyllis Smith and Pam Burrell; her sister in law, Jo Ann Blackwell.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Blackston was preceded in death by her only son James “Jamey” Blackston, and her two brothers, Keith and Darrin Blackwell.

A memorial service to celebrate her homegoing will be held 3 p.m. July 31, in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:30 until 2:30 p.m. at the mortuary.

In these moments of loss, let us celebrate Debra’s life, her unwavering love for her family, and her steadfast faith that inspired all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will forever remain in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the National Kidney Foundation, kidney.org/offices/nkf-serving-carolinas.

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

 

TIMOTHY ‘TIM’ CROCKER

PICKENS — Dr. Timothy “Tim” Eugene Crocker 82, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Tim was the loving husband of more than 50 years to the late Linda Mitchell Crocker.

Dr. Crocker was born in Miami, Fla., son of the late Jack Ivan Crocker and the late Emma Jean Williams Crocker. Dr. Crocker was a graduate of Thomasville (Ga.) High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Georgia, and a Ph.D. in horticulture from Michigan State University.

Tim and Linda met at Michigan State University, then both went on to be full professors at the University of Florida for more than 30 years. Tim served as a state extension specialist in small fruits and nuts. His belief in higher education and public service extended well beyond his career at UF. He believed in building fellowship with his neighbors and community, especially by sharing the bounty of the land, whether it was fresh fish, fruits or vegetables. Tim was a natural teacher and was especially gifted at sharing his knowledge and life experiences with others through his story telling.

Tim inherited a deep love of fishing from his family, especially fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. After a day of fishing with family, Tim loved a good fish fry with homemade hushpuppies.
Tim was a dedicated member of Pickens Presbyterian Church, where he served in many leadership capacities. He also was a longtime member of the Pickens Rotary Club. Tim will be deeply missed by those who loved and knew him.

Surviving are his son, John Timothy Crocker of Atlanta; his daughter, Anne Elizabeth Crocker of Seneca; a brother, Bill Crocker (Ginger) of Albany, Ga.; a sister, Judith Corbin of Thomasville, Ga.; a sister-in-law, Jane Crocker of Tifton, Ga.; and a brother-in-law, Bob Hart of Odessa, Fla.

In addition to his wife and parents, Tim was predeceased by his twin brother, Thomas Crocker; and a sister, Eileen Crocker Hart.

A memorial service was held on July 23 at Pickens Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Dr. David A. Torrey officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Pickens Presbyterian Church.

A private burial was held at the Ramsey Creek Preserve.

Robinson Funeral Home, Downtown Easley is assisting the family with arrangements.

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

 

KENT DOUGLAS ‘SANTA CLAUS’ RINEBOLD

EASLEY — Kent Douglas Rinebold, affectionately known as “Santa Claus,” 69, loving husband of 41 years to Iona Jane Rinebold, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on March 4, 1957, in Easton, Pa., Kent was the beloved son of the late Howard L. Rinebold and Isabelle C. Inscho Rinebold.

A graduate of Warren County Technical School, Kent spent his career as a skilled painter and carpenter, taking great pride in his craftsmanship. He found joy in fishing, listening to rock and roll music and tending to his gardens and flowers. Known throughout his neighborhood for his warm personality, Kent never met a stranger and genuinely loved talking with everyone he encountered. Affectionately known as “Santa Claus,” his kind heart, friendly spirit and welcoming smile left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

In addition to his devoted wife, Iona, Kent is survived by his children, Tanya Rinebold (Edgardo) of Anderson, Nicholas Motto (Shannon) of Indiana, Pa., Sean Rinebold (Jessica) of Virginia, Thomas Rinebold (Tori) of Nazareth, Pa., and Melissa Rinebold of Easley. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Nicholas Jr., Leelani, Jennie, Payton, Kira, Romeo, Brooklyn, Johnny, Cole, Isabell, Zoey, Sarah, Liam, Miranda, Austin and Callan; his beloved great-granddaughters, K’siona and Iraleigh; his siblings, Billie Rinebold, Robin Matlock and Kimberly Rinebold; his lifelong best friend, Mark Seip; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Kent was preceded in death by his grandson, Kason Campbell; his great-grandchild, Angel Anderson; his sister, Pamela Rinebold; and his best friend, Adam Rogulski.

A funeral service was held on July 24 at the chapel of Mountain View Funeral Home.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Rinebold family.

 

STEVEN ‘TONY’ CHAPPELL

EASLEY — Steven “Tony” Chappell, 66, loving husband of 46 years to Angie Bearden Chappell, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on Nov. 8, 1959, in Brevard, N.C., Tony was the beloved son of the late Arnold Chappell and Evangeline Beck Chappell.

Tony found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time fishing, feeding wildlife, woodworking and, above all, making memories with his family. His kind heart and love for the outdoors will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In addition to his devoted wife, Angie Bearden Chappell, Tony is survived by his grandson, Jacob Chappell of Easley; and his siblings, Bea Roach (Billy) of Easley, Mike Chappell (Joyce) of Easley, Dennis Chappell of Easley and Sherry Chappell of Greenville.

In addition to his parents, Tony was preceded in death by his son, Jamie Chappell; and his brothers, George Watkins, Johnny Watkins, Kenneth Watkins and Gary Chappell.

A memorial service was held on July 25 at Easley Church of God.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Chappell family.

 

NORMA KARR

LIBERTY — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Norma Jean Karr Jones, who left us peacefully on July 21, 2026, at the age of 70.

Born on April 17, 1956, in Pickens, she was a daughter of the late James and Rosey Melviney Ramey Holbert.

She spent her life in Liberty, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Norma was a devoted member of Oak Grove Baptist Church in Piedmont, where she found joy in her faith and community.

She was a loving wife to her husband, William “Don” Jones, and a devoted mother to her son, Scottie Karr (Brandy). Norma’s family was her world, and she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren, Megan Johnston (Mitchell), Shaun Karr and Hayden Karr; her sister, Melinda Lightner, her great-grandchildren, Ledger Karr, Walker Johnson, Hollyn Johnson and Lennon Karr; her stepsons, Bill Jones, Scott Jones; a stepgrandson, Chad Jones, and a stepgreat-granddaughter, Madison Jones.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, James, Lee Roy and Quenton Holbert, along with three stepgrandsons, Lance, Steven and Brian Jones.

When she wasn’t spending time with family, Norma loved tending to her yard and relaxing on her front porch, embracing the simple pleasures of life. Her laughter and nurturing presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services to celebrate Norma’s life were held July 28 in the Liberty Mortuary chapel. Burial followed at Westview Cemetery.

As we say goodbye, we invite all those whose lives were touched by Norma to come and share in the love and memories that will forever bind us together. Your presence will be a comfort to her family during this difficult time.

Norma Jean Karr may be gone from this earth, but her spirit will remain alive in the hearts of her loved ones.

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