William Roddey “Bill” Britton 12/27/1922 - 12/26/2012

William Roddey “Bill” Britton, 89, died Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2012, at Covenant Place. He was the husband of the late Anne Godwin Britton.

He was born Dec. 27, 1922, five miles south of Sumter, a son of the late John Bossard Britton and Christine Rappe Britton. He attended Sumter city schools and, in 1940, entered Clemson College, studying electrical engineering. At the end of his junior year in 1943, he entered military service, along with his entire class. Commissioned a second lieutenant in 1944, he had assignments in six southeastern states until discharge from service in February 1946. Mr. Britton ginned cotton at Britton Siding, Dalzell, and Rembert for 22 years. In 1961, he founded and managed Sumter Stress-Crete, a manufacturer of pre-stressed concrete used in construction of schools, churches, and commercial buildings. This plant was sold to Florence Concrete Products with the plant remaining in Sumter. In 1970, he founded Power-Clean Systems, a local manufacturer of self-service car wash equipment, as well as the sale and service of automatic car washes. He retired from this company in 1990.

Mr. Britton was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and served on its board of stewards, as well as the Sumter County Development Board and the Salvation Army Board. He was the first chairman of the Sumter Planning Commission and was a longtime member of the Fortnightly Club.

Surviving are a daughter, Susan Britton James of Columbia; a son, William R. Britton Jr.(Karen); grandson, John W. Britton; and great-granddaughter, Hannah Britton, all of Sumter.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Anne Britton; and his brother, John B. “Jack” Britton Jr.

A memorial service for Mr. Britton will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at Trinity United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kevin Gorry officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. in the church parlor.

Memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore-Hill-McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

Reed Wesley 'Bud' Kuhns 12/17/1946 - 12/24/2012

Reed Wesley “Bud” Kuhns, 66, husband of Boonclo “Addy” Komhom Kuhns, died Monday, Dec. 24, 2012, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., he was a son of Eva Jean Miller Kuhns and the late Reed William Kuhns. Mr. Kuhns was a U.S. Air Force veteran of Vietnam. He was a member of Sumter Masonic Lodge No. 364 and he was a KCCH 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason.

Surviving are his mother of Sumter; his wife of Sumter; one son, Justin P. Kuhns of Columbia; two aunts, Shirley Anderson of Apopka, Fla., and Ethel Jones of Winter Park, Fla.; and one uncle, Richard Miller of Connellsville, Pa.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in the chapel of Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Riner officiating.

The family will receive friends at Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home following the memorial service.

Memorials may be made to Sumter Masonic Lodge No. 364, 215 Alice Drive, Sumter, SC 29150.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.

Charles William Farmer - Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012

BISHOPVILLE, SC

Charles William Farmer, 69, husband of LaReda Davis Farmer, died Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at his home.

Born in Lee County, he was a son of the late Ellie Carson Farmer and Leona Madeline Brown Farmer. Mr. Farmer was a member of Cedar Creek Baptist Church and was retired from GTE. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a Mason and a member of Bishopville Masonic Lodge No. 104.

Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Rita Farmer Peelman (Wayne) of Bishopville and Lori Farmer Brownfield (Tommy) of Camden; grandchildren, Katie Peelman Boone (Justin) of Bishopville, Emily Brownfield of Camden and Caroline Peelman of Bishopville; a great-grandson, Colton William Boone of Bishopville; two sisters, Betty Jean Segars (Glenn) and Melba Tallon, both of Bishopville; and a brother, Frank Farmer (Pat) of Westville.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Cedar Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Bobby Wallace officiating.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at 2936 Camden Highway, Bishopville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Care of S.C., 121 N. Main St., Bishopville, SC 29010.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the nurses and staff of Hospice Care of S.C. for their devotion.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Editors Note: Brother Charles was a former member of Sumter Lodge No. 364 Ancient Free Masons

Wilma Parnell Saverance - 4/9/1930 - 11/26/2012

Bishopville, S.C. Funeral services for Wilma Parnell Saverance, age 82, who passed away November 26, will be held Thursday at 2:00 at Faith Baptist Church.  Rev. Arlin Kirkland and Rev. William Taylor will officiate. Burial will be in the Wayside Baptist Church Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday 5-7 pm at the Funeral Home.  Mrs. Saverance was born in Lamar a daughter of the late Gettice & Frances Inez Huggins Parnell. She was a member of Faith Baptist Church.  Surviving are one daughter, Jean Atkinson, Timmonsville and one son, Pete (Beverly) Saverance, Bishopville; five grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; two sisters, Jackie (Roy) Powell, Sumter and Linda (Shot) Windham, Lamar; one brother, Hamer (Ann) Parnell, Lamar; one sister in law, Jeanette Parnell, Bishopville.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Elijah E. (Bud) Saverance, Sr.; one son, Elijah E. (Buddy) Saverance, Jr.; two sisters, Carolyn Rabon and Ann Watford; one brother, Richard Parnell; one Great Grandson, Shane Saverance. www.nortonfh.net

Sally Johnson Josey - Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012

BISHOPVILLE — Sally Johnson Josey, 94, widow of Henry Edward Josey Sr., died Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, at KershawHealth Medical Center at Camden.

Born in Inman, she was a daughter of the late Walker Otto and Sallie Kate Dalton Johnson. Mrs. Josey was a member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church and was a retired school teacher.

Survivors include three sons, Henry Edward Josey Jr. (Carolyn) of Bishopville, Jerry Johnson Josey Sr. (Susi) of Beaufort and William Chester Josey (special friend, Georgia Reynolds) of Bishopville; grandsons, Henry Edward Josey III (Kip), Joshua Michael Josey and Jerry Johnson Josey Jr.; granddaughters, Jackie Josey Bulloch and Summer Josey Yarborough; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by brothers, Walter, Glen, Dill, Shorty and Skinny; sisters, Mary, Nell, Louise and Dora; special nephews, Jack Golighty and Maxy Golighty; and a special niece, Katie Golighty Wingo.

Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. Friday in the Bethany Baptist Church cemetery with the Rev. James Chandler and the Rev. Henry Altman officiating.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Friday at Bethany Baptist Church and other times at 526 Green Lane, Bishopville.

Memorials may be made to Bethany Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Fred Sandy, 2600 Raccoon Road, Mayesville, SC 29104.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Charles Farmer - December 13, 2012

Just learned that Charles Farmer has passed away today... details,  when I get them will be posted on the following site: Sumter Masonic Lodge 364

Vernon Tyra Reynolds Jr. - Saturday, November 24, 2012

BISHOPVILLE, SC

Vernon Tyra Reynolds, Jr., 66, husband of Priscilla Hodges Reynolds, died Saturday, November 24, 2012 at Kershaw Health Center in Camden. 

Born in Gastonia, NC, he was a son of Dorothy Cornwell Reynolds and the late Vernon Tyra Reynolds, Sr. Mr. Reynolds was a retired general contractor. 

He was greatly loved by his family and always tried to live a life that mattered. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 44 years; a daughter, Tracey Lynch and husband, Chris; a son, Todd Reynolds and fianc‚, Hagan Grills; mother, Dorothy Reynolds, a brother, Gershom Reynolds and wife, Rusty; a sister, Joanna Redick and husband, Hugh; four grandsons, Tyler, Reid, Conner, and Wesley; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at 1 P.M. Wednesday at Forest Lawn East Cemetery, 3700 Forest Lawn Dr., Matthews, NC. 

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Tuesday at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at 310 Zemp Rd., Bishopville. 

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=vernon-tyra-reynolds&pid=161261922&fhid=8954#storylink=cpy

Thomas Howard Saunders Sr. - Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012

Thomas Howard Saunders - Sumter, SC

Retired Air Force Col. Thomas Howard Saunders Sr., age 82, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

He was born March 7, 1930, in Worth County, Ga., a son of the late Charlie Eugene and Mamie Roberts Saunders. Upon graduation from Doerun High School, he moved from Georgia to Connecticut, where he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving three years during the Korean Conflict as a tactical instructor of basic trainees. Upon discharge in 1952, he entered the University of Connecticut, graduating in 1956 as ROTC Wing Commander, recipient of the Order of the Sword, Arnold Air Society, with a regular commission in the Air Force as a second lieutenant. Thus began his third decade long career as an Air Force officer. Col. Saunders was a veteran of the Vietnam War, having flown 101 missions over North Vietnam, during which time he was hit on two occasions, successfully returning severely damaged aircraft to base.

He was a member of the Order of the Daedalians, Sons of the American Revolution, Arnold Air Society, American Legion, Sumter’s Masonic Lodge No. 364 and Military Officer’s Association.

During his distinguished career, he earned, among many other awards, the Legion of the Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Meritorious Service Medals, 11 Air Medals and two Combat Readiness Medals. He served at Lackland Air Force Base and Laredo Air Force Base, Texas; Loan Air Force Base, France; Shaw Air Force Base; Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand; Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.; AFSOUTH NATO, Naples, Italy; Zweibrucken Air Base, Germany; Ramstein Air Base, Germany; and Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., where he retired.

When he wasn’t flying his revered RF-4C Phantom or RF-101 VooDoo, Tom (call sign “Husky”) enjoyed gardening, playing golf with his buddies, hunting for the BIG buck and catching whatever was biting that day. Not only did he find much joy in his hobbies, he found even more joy in sharing them with his grandchildren and younger extended family members.

Surviving in addition to his wife are a son, Thomas Howard Saunders Jr. and his wife, Susan Gail Hatfield, of Prosperity; three daughters, Cindy Joan Saunders Beeson and her husband, George Kenneth, of Bulverde, Texas, Tamara Lynn Saunders Bingham of Tokyo, Japan, and Lorri Michelle Saunders of Sumter; a brother, Charlie H. Saunders of Crestview, Fla.; a sister, Marguerite Saunders Pitts of Doerun, Ga.; five grandchildren, Thomas Howard Saunders III and his wife, Kate, of Oviedo, Fla., Jessica Renee Saunders Cooley and her husband, Senior Master Sgt. Scott, of Great Falls, Mich., Michael David Beeson and his wife, Roxanne McDowell, of Dripping Springs, Texas, Mark Andrew Beeson and his wife, Tanya Ammons, of San Antonio, Texas, and Austen Glenn Bingham and his wife, Hannah, of Carrollton, Ga.; and four great-grandchildren, Coryn Renee Cooley, Clayton Lee Cooley, Aidyn Katherine Saunders and Gorman Owen Beeson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Curtis E. Saunders and Calvin Saunders; and a sister, Myrtle Saunders Massini.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Fort Jackson National Cemetery with the Rev. Mike Hatfield officiating.

The family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday at Bullock Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Daedalian Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 3192, Sumter, SC 29150; the Tamassee DAR School, 1925 Bumgardner Drive, Tamassee, SC 29686; or to a charity of one’s choice.

You may sign the family’s guest book at www.bullockfuneralhome.com.

The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home of Sumter for the arrangements.

L. Craig Cagle - Saturday, October 13, 2012

Sumter, SC

L. Craig Cagle, 64, husband of Edwina Bennett Thrasher Cagle, died Saturday, October 13, 2012 at Tuomey Regional Medical Center.

Born in Junction City, KS, he was a son of the late Louie Lawrence “Larry” Cagle and the late Dorothy Fischer Cagle. He was a member of New Salem Baptist Church and was retired from construction work.  Mr. Cagle was a member and Past Master of Hillcrest Masonic Lodge, a 33^rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, former secretary of Sumter York Rite Bodies, a member of Knight Masons, KYCH, Palmetto York Rite College, and Past Worthy Patron of the Order of the Easter Star Hillcrest Chapter 263.

Survivors include his wife of Sumter; a step-daughter, Bronwin T. Rabon of Sumter; step-mother, Norma Cagle of Simpson, LA; a step-grandson, Jonathan Rabon (Crystal) of Sumter; three step-great-grandchildren; a sister, Barbara Alice Jordan; and a step-sister, Barbara Brinlee of Simpson, LA.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Jeffrey Cagle.

Funeral services with Masonic rites will be held at 3 P.M. Tuesday in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Sim Smith officiating. Burial will be in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

The Masons will serve as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 P.M. Tuesday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to New Salem Baptist Church, 2500 West Oakland Ave., Sumter, SC 29154.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

James Wyatt "Chip" Cothran Jr. - October 10, 2012

BISHOPVILLE , SC

James Wyatt "Chip" Cothran, Jr., 69, of Bishopville, went peacefully to be with Jesus on Wednesday, October 10, 2012. He was born May 25, 1943 in Columbia, SC to Dorothy Roland Parke Cothran and the late James Wyatt Cothran. 

Mr. Cothran graduated from Bishopville High School and the University of South Carolina, serving as President of the Student Body in each school. He also graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Mr. Cothran was a long time real estate developer. 

Chip has a deep personal relationship with his Lord and Savior. We praise God for Chip's life. Chip was preceded in death by his father and is survived by his mother of the home; a son, James Wyatt Cothran, III of Athens, GA; a daughter, Lauren C. Roach (Josh) of Greenville, SC; a granddaughter, Callie; a sister, Julia Lea Cothran of the home; and a brother, Thomas Parke Cothran (Lou) of Mt. Pleasant, SC. 

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday in the Bishopville Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Main St., Bishopville with the Rev. Ken Hicks officiating. 

The family will receive friends immediately after the service in the church fellowship hall. 

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=james-wyatt-cothran&pid=160354857#storylink=cpy

Dr. Richard Maynard Denny - October 6, 2012

Bishopville, S.C.

Funeral services for Dr. Richard Maynard Denny, age 97, who passed away October 6, will be held Tuesday at 11:00 at the Bishopville First Baptist Church. Rev. Lin Kirkman and Rev. Sam Stevens will officiate. 

Burial will be in the Piedmont Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church fellowship hall. 

Dr. Denny was born in Bishopville a son of the late Doc Turner & Cora Dorothea Hartman Denny. He was a graduate of Bishopville High School, Clemson College Class of 1938, graduate of Southern College of Optometry, member of Bishopville First Baptist church, Rotary Club, VFW, Veteran of WWII and was active in the Lee County Council on Aging. 

Surviving are his wife, Sophia Lottie Creed Denny, Sumter; two sons, Dr. Richard Lee (Mirian) Denny, Sumter, Dr. Maynard Lyn (Abbie) Denny, Lake City; one daughter, Frances (FF III) Morrison, Hartsville; 8 Grandchildren, 13 Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son Lt. Charles Emery Denny. www.nortonfh.net

William Johnson “Billy” McCutchen Jr. - October 4, 2012

BISHOPVILLE, SC

Funeral services for William Johnson “Billy” McCutchen Jr., age 75, who passed away Oct. 4, 2012, will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday at Bishopville Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Wallace Woodcock and the Rev. Allen Lynch officiating. Burial will be in Bishopville Presbyterian Church cemetery, directed by Norton Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Billy was born in Florence, a son of the late William J. Sr. and Elizabeth Richardson McCutchen. He was a graduate of Bishopville High School and the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy. He was a member of Bishopville Presbyterian Church, having served as deacon, elder and valued member of the chansel choir. He loved golfing, hunting, fishing and horses. Most importantly, Mr. McCutchen cherished his time with his family. He will be missed by his many friends and family.

Surviving are his wife of almost 54 years, Louise Hapeshis McCutchen; one daughter, Peggy (Allen) Corbett; one son, Johnny (Ann) McCutchen, all of Bishopville; six grandchildren, Kayla McCutchen, Caroline McCutchen, Brittany Newton, Maggie Corbett, Libby Corbett and William Corbett; two brothers, Richard P. (Beth) McCutchen of Bishopville and Dr. Allen F. (Betty) McCutchen of Hartsville; two sisters, Betty M. Heriot of Bishopville and Harriet M. Davis of Lexington; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Bishopville Presbyterian Church Cemetery, P.O. Box 66, Bishopville, SC 29010 or to Hospice Care of S.C., 121 N. Main St., Bishopville, SC 29010.

Alberta Davis Barnes - Saturday, September 8, 2012

BISHOPVILLE -- Alberta Davis Barnes, 91, widow of Kenneth W. Barnes, died Saturday, September 8, 2012, in Columbia.

Born in Lee County, she was a daughter of the late Robert Henry and Maggie Watson Davis. She retired from Bishopville Manufacturing.

Survivors include sons, Elwood Barnes of Florence, Bill Barnes (Lillian) of Bishopville, and Kenneth Barnes of Timmonsville; daughters, Annette Childers (Tommy) of Sumter and Barbara Jacobs (Vernon) of Columbia; a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and two very special great-great-grandboys.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Claude Davis and Leslie Davis; two sisters, Geneva Brown and Belle Brown; a step-sister, Elise Dove; a step-brother, Otis Watkins; two grandchildren, Joey Goins and Ronnie Barnes; and a daughter-in-law, Sara Barnes.

Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday in the Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home chapel with Clinton Goff and Bobby Silver officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home and other times at her home, 3197 Sumter Hwy., Bishopville.

Hancock-Elmore-Hill Funeral Home of Bishopville is in charge of the arrangements.

Thelma Grantham Parnell Ward - August 25, 2012

Bishopville, S.C. Funeral services for Thelma Grantham Parnell Ward, age 93, who passed away August 25, will be held Monday at 11:00 at the Liberty Hill Baptist Church. Rev. James E. Beck, Jr. will officiate. Burial will be in the Liberty Hill Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville Chapel. Visitation will be Sunday 4-6 pm at the Funeral Home. Mrs. Ward was born in Hartsville a daughter of the late Nick & Sudie Outlaw Grantham. She was a member of the Liberty Hill Baptist Church. She spent most of her life sitting and taking care of the elderly. She was a loving and giving wife, mother, mother in law, grandmother, great and great great grandmother. Surviving  are one daughter, Ethel (Bobby) Skinner, Bishopville; two sons, Richard R. (Mary) Parnell, Jr., Bishopville and Edward C. Parnell, Sumter; one brother, Shadrack Grantham, Hartsville; two step daughters, Alice Roberts, Mt. Pleasant and Doris (Harold) Woody, Mt. Pleasant; 5 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Richard R. Parnell, Sr. and E.E. Ward, Jr.; two grandchildren; daughter in law, Elizabeth Smith Parnell. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Association, 4124 Clemson Blvd., Suite L, Anderson, S.C. 29621 or Liberty Hill Baptist Church, 3224 Liberty Hill Road, Hartsville, S.C. 29550. www.nortonfh.net

Mary Lizzie Stokes Davis - August 16, 2012

Mary Lizzie Stokes Davis - August 16, 2012

Mary Lizzie Stokes Davis, 79, went to be with her heavenly Father on Thursday, August 16, 2012 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.  She was the daughter of the late Willie Clifford and Bertha Deas Stokes and was predeceased by her husband, C. Loyce Davis.  A memorial service will be held to celebrate Mary’s life on Sunday, August 19 at 3:00 at Southside Baptist Church in Camden.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the services and other times at the residence -2116 Airline Drive, Camden. Mary was a 1952 graduate of Lynchburg High School and was retired from Bishopville Manufacturing Company.  She was a faithful member of Southside Baptist Church where she served in many areas of church life. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law: Linda and Tim Jordan of Spartanburg and Deannie and Bethel DuRant of Chapin.  She is also survived by five grandchildren: Michael (Jenna) Jordan, Huntsville, AL; Fran (Mark) Sullivan, Columbia, SC; Brandon DuRant, Manning, SC; Catherine DuRant, Clemson, SC; Rachel DuRant, Clemson University and five  great-grandchildren: Ben and Ella Jordan and Luke, James, and Grant Sullivan. She is also survived by  two stepsons and their families, Cliff and Jimmy Davis.  Mary leaves behind two brothers, Henry Stokes, Richmond, VA; and Ed (Fran) Stokes of Camden and two sisters, Ann Huggins and Rae (Brantley) King also of Camden; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Mary was a creative and talented individual who used her gifts to serve others.  She worked tirelessly to serve her family, her church, and most of all her Savior, Jesus Christ. The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to her dear caregivers, Joyce Davis and Kim Bryant  and to her dedicated physicians and their staffs, Dr. Anthony Godfrey and Dr. John Baker and the staff of Agape Hospice.   Memorials may be made to Southside Baptist Church, 200 York Street , Camden or to Agape Hospice.  The family is being assisted by Norton Funeral Home of Bishopville. www.nortonfh.net

Elizabeth Anne Edgerton - Saturday, August 18

Elizabeth Anne Edgerton 8/10/1935 - 8/18/2012

Bishopville, SC Graveside services for Mrs. Elizabeth Anne Edgerton age 77 will be held Wednesday, August 22 at 4:30pm at Hebron United Methodist Church Cemetery, 3471 Una Road, Bishopville, SC, directed by Norton Funeral Home, Bishopville Chapel.  Pastor Christine Wechsler will officiate.  “Betty Anne” passed away Saturday, August 18 at Morrell Senior Care in Hartsville.  She was born in Florence, SC the daughter of the late Willie Hugh and Harriett Bridges Edgerton.  She graduated from McClenaghan High School in Florence, retired in 2012 after working for the Federal Government for 38 years. Surviving are her Siblings, Bill (Joy) Edgerton, Bishopville, Lucy E. (Barnett) Smith, Charleston, Virginia E. Jackson, Florence, Jennie E. ( Julian) Mitchell, Aiken, Sam Edgerton, Middleburg, FL;  Aunts, Annie Roney E. Vaughan, and Lucille E. Brown, Florence.  The family will be at the home of Bill and Joy Edgerton, 42 Shirley Road, Bishopville, SC.  Memorials may be made to the McLeod Hospice, P.O. Box 100551, Florence, SC 29502.  www.nortonfh.net

Terry L. Newman - August 16, 2012

Sumter, SC

Terry L. Newman, Sr., 67, husband of Linda Kolb Newman, passed away on Thursday, August 16, 2012 at MUSC in Charleston after an extended illness.

Born in Sumter, he was a son of the late James Epps Newman, Sr. and the late Margaret Louise Barnes Newman. Mr. Newman was a 1965 graduate of Mayewood High School. He was a member of Concord Presbyterian Church, the Sumter Masonic Lodge #364, and the American Legion. He served in the S.C. National Guard for 30 years, having retired in 1994 from McEntire Air National Guard Base. He was also retired from Newman Construction, Inc.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years; two sons, Terry Lee Newman, Jr. (Leigh) and Mark Jackson Newman both of Sumter; a grandchild, William Ashby Newman; a brother, J.E. “Jimmy” Newman, Jr. (Edie) of Sumter; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Carroll Edwin Newman.

Funeral services will be held at 4 P.M. Sunday at Concord Presbyterian Church with the Rev. James Braswell officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 P.M. Saturday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home, 3430 Myrtle Beach Hwy.

Memorials may be made to Concord Presbyterian Church, 3350 East Brewington Rd., Sumter, SC 29153.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

Edgar M. "Buddy", "Big Ed" Strickland, Jr. - 19 July 2012

Edgar M. "Buddy", "Big Ed" Strickland, Jr.

STRICKLAND, Edgar M. Jr., 76, born on May 4, 1936, in Bishopville, SC, died on July 19, 2012.


He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar Sr. and Doris Strickland; and Sister, Betty Stokes. 


Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Phyllis Tinker Strickland, FL; one niece; Janet Sue Thomas (Joseph) of SC; and extended family on his wife's side. 


He received a bachelor's degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He retired from Delta Airlines in 1992 and moved to Floral City, Fl. He was on the Golden Boot Awards committee for the Motion Picture and TV fund of LA. An avid NASCAR fan, he attended the last 55 Indianapolis 500 races as well as Daytona, Darlington and more. 


Ed was well loved by his many friends around the world. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the "Make A Wish Foundation." 


A graveside memorial service with Military Honors for Mr. Strickland will be held at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL, on Friday, August 3, 2012, at 10:00 A.M. Heinz Funeral Home & Cremation, Inverness, FL


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OSWEGO — Sidney D. Mozingo Sr., 88, husband of Jessie Proctor Mozingo, was called home by his Heavenly Father on Thursday, July 19, 2012, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center, with his family by his side.

Born March 16, 1924, in Lee County, he was the youngest son of the late Rev. Wylie Alton Mozingo and Edgie Weatherly Mozingo.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, along with four sisters and three brothers.

Sidney was a Christian and a member of Bethel United Methodist Church in Oswego. He was known to many throughout Sumter and Lee counties and was the owner of Mozingo’s Grocery on U.S. 15 North for 48 plus years. Prior to such, he was the owner and operator of Mozingo’s Gulf in Bishopville and Mozingo’s Gulf at Palmetto Plaza in Sumter.

Sidney D Mozingo, Sr.

He was a loving husband, father and brother, who will be dearly missed by all. He loved his dog, Lexi, and riding in his pickup truck and on his tractor on the farm, tending to his livestock. He loved his hat and a good cigar, working and making a “dollar.” He had a remarkable memory for details and events, had an infectious grin and quite a sense of humor.

He is survived by his faithful and loving wife of 64 years, Jessie Proctor Mozingo of the home; two sons, S. Derrick Mozingo Jr. and his wife, Suzanne, of Myrtle Beach, Eugene Brown “Buck” Mozingo of Myrtle Beach and Rochelle M. Hiott and her husband, Ed, of Charlotte, N.C.; one granddaughter, Jessica Evans of Charlotte, who loved her grandpa dearly; and one brother, Wiley Alton “W.A.” Mozingo and his wife, Clara, of Bishopville.

Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday at Bethel United Methodist Church in Oswego with the Rev. Curtis Wells officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 5575 Lodebar Road, Sumter, SC 29153.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

William Edward (Ed) Watkins - July 6, 2012

Florence, S.C. Funeral services for William Edward (Ed) Watkins, age 83, who passed away July 6, will be held Sunday at 3:00 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Hartsville. Bishop Michael Keith will officiate. Burial will be in The LDS Cemetery in Society Hill directed by Norton Funeral Home, Hartsville. Visitation will be Saturday 5-7 pm at the Funeral Home.  Mr. Watkins was born in Bishopville a son of the late Colon Glease & Martha Ellen Culley Watkins.  Mr. Watkins served during WWII in the Army from 1946 – 1948 and the Navy from 1950 – 1953.  After the military he became a Barber in Hartsville & Society Hill. Later he was the Town Clerk & Treasurer for the City of Hartsville and then Finance Director in Cheraw.  He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he served in many leadership positions. After retirement he and his wife served in the Atlanta , GA, Columbia, SC Temple and  the California Oakland Mission.  Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Dorothy Petty Watkins, Florence; one son, Eddie (Miranda) Watkins, Columbia; three daughters, Terry (Tim) Harvey, Florence, Libby (William) Rhodes, Florence, Lynn Watkins, Florence; two sisters, Lois Irvin, Charlotte and Ann (Don) Bowen, Bishopville; 32 Grandchildren and spouses and 38 Great Grandchildren; Many Nieces & Nephews and Friends.  Memorials may be made to the LDS Cemetery, P.O. Box 497, Society Hill, S.C. 29593 or a charity of your choice. www.nortonfh.net

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Martha Ruth Brannon Gibson - Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Martha Ruth Brannon Gibson 

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Martha B. Gibson GREER - Martha Ruth Brannon Gibson precious wife of Carl "Oochie" Gibson passed away in her home surrounded by her family on Tuesday, June 5, 2012. 

Daughter of Hattie Alexander and Phillip Brannon, she was born on December 2, 1938 in Sumter, SC. 

She grew up in Bishopville, graduated from Bishopville High School and Limestone College. 

She married "Oochie" and shared her love with him for almost 52 years. 

She held many beauty queen titles including Greer's First Peach Queen, Miss Southern 500 and Pi Kappa Alpha National Dream Girl. 

After teaching art, Martha worked with her husband at Lanford and Gibson. 

She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Greer. 

Surviving in addition to her husband are two sons, Todd Gibson (Mandy) and Jay Gibson ; one daughter, Gwinn Harvey (Mark); six grandchildren, Alec Gibson, Devin Gibson, Daniel Harvey, Madison Harvey, Nolan Gibson and Drayton Gibson; and two sisters, Sarah Wilson (Wayne) and Pam Downen (Allan). 

She will be honored at a 2:00 p.m. memorial service on Friday, June 8, 2012 at First Presbyterian Church, Greer. 

Visitation will be in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. 

The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to all our dear friends and family for their devoted support and prayers and for the kind and compassionate care of Lutheran Hospice of South Carolina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, Greer or Lutheran Hospice of South Carolina. 

Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com .

Read more here: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=martha-ruth-brannon-gibson&pid=157947631#storylink=cpy

Rev. Donnie Ely Collins - Friday, May 25, 2012

 The Rev. Donnie Ely Collins, 61, husband of Miriam Hudson Collins, died Friday, May 25, 2012, in Kershaw County.

Born in Manning, he was a son of the late Leroy Eugene and Liela Mae White Collins. The Rev. Collins was the senior pastor of Green Acres Assembly of God Church for 37 years. He also owned and operated Collins and Son Welding.

Survivors include his wife; three daughters, Wendy R. Collins (Patrick), Cindy C. Pierson and Christina C. Papania (Jon), all of Sumter; 12 grandchildren, Donald Collins III, Hudson Collins, Bailey Collins, Jordan Collins, Erin Collins, Brandon Collins, Haley Papania, Kylie Papania, Summer Pierson, Troy Pierson, Heather Ross and Whitney Hawkins; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Linwood L. Collins of Camden; three sisters, Madeline Brown, Marcell Hill (Larry) and Drucilla Lynch (Larry), all of Sumter; three special daughters, Julie Thompson, Lisa Sanders and Johnnie Morse; a special son, Daniel Brunson; one daughter-in-law, Jackie Collins Mayes; a special grandson, Chandler Merck-Powell; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a son, Donnie E. Collins Jr. (Patti); and three brothers, William “Bubba” Friel, John Friel and David Collins.

Funeral services will be held at 4:30 p.m. today at Green Acres Assembly of God with the Revs. Michael Bowman, Victor Smith, Dr. James Chandler and Randy Collins officiating. Burial will be in Green Acres Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the home.

Pallbearers will be Thomas Thompson, Kenny Newman, Simon Winburn, Chris Winburn, Danny Burkett, Terry Evans, Bill Mitchell and Mark Yarbourgh.

Honorary pallbearers will be deacons of Green Acres Assembly of God.

Memorials may be made to Green Acres Assembly of God, 537 Lewis Road, Sumter, SC 29154.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.

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Ray Aldrich Hickson Sr. - Thursday, May 24, 2012

Bishopville, SC Ray Aldrich Hickson Sr. age 86, passed away Thursday, May 24, 2012 at Carolina Pines Hospital in Hartsville, SC after a long illness. He was born Nov. 26, 1925 in Lynchburg, SC. He was one of 9 sons and 2 daughters born to the late William Turner Hickson and Blanche McIntosh Hickson. Mr. Hickson was a WWII veteran, serving in the Navy. He was a retired civil service electrician from Shaw Air Force Base and owner of Hilltop Farms producing poultry, cattle and row crops in Ashwood for nearly 50 years. He was a member of Ashwood Baptist Church He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy Powell Hickson, sons: Ricky (Donna), Michael, Ted (Alice), daughter: Eve Strickland (Stan), Grandchildren: Turner, Savanah, Chaneng, Grainger, Jordan, Garrett and Gage, great grandchildren: Bentley, Madyson and Brantley, sister Mabel Riddle, brothers: Bobby and Tommy Hickson, and many nieces nephews and friends. Special family friend, Rosa Lee Jennings. Visitation will be Friday, May 25 6:00-8:00 pm at Norton Funeral Home, 425 North Main St, Bishopville, SC. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 4:00 pm at Ashwood Baptist Church, Lake Ashwood Rd.  Burial will be at the Ashwood Baptist Cemetery.

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Pete Pritchard - Monday, April 30, 2012

 SUMMERTON -- Pete Pritchard, 73, husband of Betty Stokes Pritchard, passed away Monday, April 30, 2012, following a brief illness.

Born Aug. 7, 1938, in Sumter, he was a son of the late Joseph Thomas and Lena Betts Pritchard. Mr. Pritchard was a member of Wise Drive Baptist Church. He served in the U.S. Air Force. He retired as captain of the City of Sumter Fire Department after 30 years of service. He was a fishing guide for 45 years and a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain for the past 26 years. He was a devoted family man whose greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife of 51 years of Summerton; his children, Joy P. Hanna (Paul) and Sherry P. Compton (Kelly Gannon), both of Summerton, Bonny P. Scott (Clint) and Barry S. Pritchard, both of Sumter, and Stacy K. Pritchard of Summerton; a foster son, William Hudson (Tammy) of Sumter; a daughter-in-law, Shannon Y. Saxon of Sumter; a sister, Lily P. Ward of Sumter; a special caregiver, Deloris Johnson of Sumter; grandchildren, Michael and Steven Hanna, Tyler, Brayden and Baylee Scott, Hunter Pritchard and Trey Scott, Bridgett Bilton (Jason), Kristian Pritchard, and Whitney and Jack Rushton Saxon; and three great-grandchildren, Gabriel Scott, and Haleigh and Alexis Bilton.

He was preceded in death by three brothers, Herman, Gerald and Claud Pritchard; and a grandson, Collin Thomas Scott.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday in the Chapel of Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home with the Rev. Harold Kirkland and the Rev. Dearld Sterling officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Lewis Kolb, James Earl Rich, Calvin Baynard, Alfred Kelley, Gene Phillips and Don Lane.

Honorary pallbearers will be active and retired members of the City of Sumter Fire Department.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and other times at the home of his son, Barry Pritchard, 1180 Rockdale Blvd., Sumter.

Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association, 1817 Gadsden St., Columbia, SC 29201, or to the Collin Thomas Scott Memorial Playground at Wise Drive Baptist Church, 2751 Wise Drive, Sumter, SC 29150.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sumterfunerals.com.

Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home & Crematory, 221 Broad St., Sumter, is in charge of the arrangements, (803) 775-9386.