HOYT CHRISTOPHER GRANT

PICKENS — Hoyt Christopher Grant, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected Upstate businessman, passed from this life on Dec. 8, 2025, at the age of 93. To know Hoyt was to love him. Sharp as a tack well into his nineties, he loved sharing stories—always remembered in remarkable detail—with anyone willing to listen. He was a humble and generous man, always willing to lend help to anyone in need.

Born and raised in Pickens County, Hoyt was the son of Sidney Christopher and Sula Gillespie Grant. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Laura Ann Breazeale Grant, with whom he shared nearly 70 wonderful years of marriage.

Hoyt was a God-fearing man who loved his country. A proud Army veteran, he served during the Korean War and was stationed in Alaska. He was also a lifelong member of Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church.

A successful and energetic businessman, Hoyt owned and partnered with his brother, Don Grant, in several ventures, including Grant Lumber Company, Grant Brothers Chip Company, Grant Ford, and Grant Body Shop. He was also one of the founding partners of Southern Oaks Golf Course. His leadership extended beyond his own enterprises, as he served on the Board of Directors of Bankers Trust (now Bank of America).

Outside of work, one of Hoyt’s greatest joys was spending time at his cabin with Laura Ann, taking in the beloved view of Table Rock. His passion for the land and its preservation was recognized in 2022 when he received the Tommy Wyche Land Conservation Champion Award for his dedication to protecting the iconic Grant Meadow and the Table Rock viewshed along Highway 11.

Hoyt is survived by his three children; Loretta Brucke (Harold) and Terry Grant (Karen) of Pickens, Barry Grant (Gail) of Easley. He was the grandfather to; Holly Scruggs (Brian), Lauren Patterson (Mack), Justin Brucke (Fallon), Matt Brucke (Julia), Paul Brucke (Brooke), Kali Grant-Rivers (Bill Burke) and Kacey Bingham. He adored his great-grandchildren; Lane and Luke Scruggs, Hudson Brucke, Nora and Bolt Patterson, Sage and Hollis Brucke, Luna and Freya Burke, Ashton Walden, Cameron and Brooklynn Barnes; and great-great grandchild, Jaxon Tate and Dallas Walden. Also surviving is one brother, Stan Grant (Kathy) of Cypress, Texas.

He was predeceased by his parents; three brothers, Don Grant (Carol), Jerry Grant and Charlie Grant; and two sisters, Mildred Lewis (Edwin) and Nancy Wells (Bobby). He was also preceded in death by a grandson, Jimi Thomas.

Services honoring Hoyt took place on Dec. 11, at Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church. A private graveside service followed for the family.

Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels, 349 Edgemont Avenue, Liberty or Porter’s Chapel United Methodist Church, PO Box 674, Pickens.

Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Grant family.

DONALD LARRY MARLER

SIX MILE — Dr. Donald Larry (Don) Marler was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was marked by faith, service, and a deep love for people. He passed away Friday, Dec. 12, 2025 surrounded by the legacy of a life well lived; one built on quiet leadership, kindness, and steadfast devotion to his family and community.

Don grew up in Woodruff, and was proud of his roots. He graduated from Woodruff High School in 1973, Wofford College in 1977, and earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1984. Dentistry was more than a profession to