James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation

01/20/2026

George Griffith, Jr.

George Louis Griffith "Skipper", Jr., 81, of Johns Island, SC entered into eternal rest on Monday, January 19, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

His Funeral Service will be 12:00 PM, Friday, January 23, 2026, at the James A. McAlister Chapel, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston. The burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 604 Fort Johnson Road. The family will receive friends Friday between 10:30 and 11:45 AM at the funeral home. The Celebration of Life reception will follow the burial, at the American Legion Post 147 968 Folly Road, James Island.

​Born in Charleston, South Carolina, on May 16, 1944, George was a true son of the Lowcountry. He attended Blessed Sacrament School and was a proud graduate of Bishop England High School. George honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1964 to 1968 as a machinist.

​Growing up, George was an exceptional athlete; he was an undefeated Golden Gloves Champion into the late 1950's and early 1960's. After high school, he played semi-professional football for the Charleston Sports, where he served as Team Captain for 12 years and was honored as an Outstanding Player of the Southern Dixie Football League.

​George was a graduate of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Charleston County Police Department during the 1970's and 1980's. A Master Plumber by trade, he was the retired owner and operator of Griffith Mechanical Contractors, a business he ran for over 40 years. He was also a member of the International Longshoremen's Association as a stevedore.

​Known for being dependable and fiercely loyal, George was a master storyteller who loved to share a good laugh, he was an excellent cook and was a man who truly loved to dance. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, golfing, horseback riding and fishing in the 23-acre pond where he built the family home in 1984. Above all, he was happiest when surrounded by his big family.

​George was a member of the Knights of Columbus and former member of the Hibernian Society. He was a man of faith and a member of Nativity Catholic Church as well as Our Lady of Good Counsel on Folly Beach.

​George was predeceased by his parents, George Louis Griffith and Elizabeth Vittitoe Griffith; the mother of his children and high school sweetheart, Joye Flato Griffith Alexander; his son, C. Michael Griffith; his brothers, Ashley "Timmy" Griffith, Guy Leon Griffith and Gregg Lawrence Griffith as well as his beloved dog, Rocky.

​He is survived by his daughter, Maria Annjanette Griffith Lowry and her husband, Michael Lowry; his brother, Gary Lee Griffith and his sister, Maria M'Liss Griffith Keith. He was the proud grandfather of Ronald Scott Berry (Bridget Rea), Caitlin Annjanette Berry and Calissa Rose Berry and the great-grandfather of Kinley, Charlie, Kiley, Avery, Jackson, Rilynn, Baylor and Isabelle.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.

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01/20/2026

01/19/2026

Terre Stevens

Terre Williams Stevens, 74, wife of Wyatt Stevens of Johns Island, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Friday, January 16, 2026, surrounded by love.

Born November 21, 1951 to the late Cecil B. Williams and Katherine Rivers Williams of James Island, Terre grew up in a family where a love for plants was deeply intertwined with a desire to help others, shaping her belief that nurturing - whether of plants or people - was a true calling. This foundation blossomed into a lifelong passion for horticulture and a remarkable gift for sharing her knowledge with generosity and grace. As a founder of Brownswood Nursery on Johns Island, her kindness, patience, and welcoming spirit left an impression that will live on in countless memories and gardens across our community.

Terre's life was a reflection of her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, her devotion to family and friends, and her genuine love for people. She not only saw them, but she saw what they really needed and did what she could to help them get it. The people she encouraged and the relationships she cultivated all carry a piece of her heart. She lived a life with purpose, passion, and a deep love for God. She has left her mark on this world, and a beautiful legacy has taken root. She counted her blessings and encouraged others to do the same, especially when life got hard. On many occasions, despite being in pain, Terre would say, "I love my life!"

Terre is preceded in death by her sister, Cecile E. Stewart. She is survived by her loving husband, Wyatt Stevens; her sons, Ryan Watkins (Ivana) and Drew Stevens (Kaitlin); her daughter, Amy Duttera (Tony); and her cherished grandchildren: Jake and Riley Duttera; Evie, Ansley, Vera, and John Ryan Watkins; and Andrew Wyatt Stevens, Jr. She is also survived by her sister, Pam Kirby (Jimmy); nephews Michael Rooke and Danny Stewart (Christy); great-niece Callie Shellhaas (Gates); great-nephews Drayton Stewart and Alexander Kirby; and great-niece Lauren Kirby Riddick.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston. The relatives and friends of Wyatt and Terre Stevens are invited to attend her Funeral Service at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at James Island Christian Church, 12 Sawgrass Road, James Island. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 604 Fort Johnson Road.

We are profoundly grateful for Terre's life, her faith, and the enduring impact she made. Terre will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Memorial donations may be made to James Island Christian Missions.

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01/17/2026

After the loss of a loved one, you're likely to feel tired and sad. But did you know that exercise can help? This helpful article shares how even a little bit of exercise may help you as you grieve and move toward healing.

After a loss, the body experiences a high level of stress. Can exercise help you feel more peaceful during times of grief? Click for more!

01/16/2026

John Soffera

John Anthony "Johnny" Soffera, 69, of Huger, SC entered into eternal rest Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

Johnny was born in Charleston, SC to the late Joseph D. and Mary Maginn Soffera. He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 24 years, Sheila Russell Soffera of Huger, SC; his daughters, Chelsea Soffera (David Debruhl) of Allendale, SC, Susan Elkins (AJ) of Williston, SC and Amy Hardee of North Charleston, SC; his ten grandchildren: DJ, Landon, Gracie, Hannah, Anderson, John, Lydia, Liam, Gentry and Ireland; brothers, Joseph D. "Joe" Soffera, Jr. (Kathy) of Kings Mountain, NC, Thomas J. "Tommy" Soffera (the late Mary Moxham Soffera) of Charlotte, NC and William F. "Billy" Soffera (Mandy) of Saint Augustine, FL; his sisters, Mary Susan "Suzie" Crosby (Larry) of Charleston, SC and Sandy S. "Sandi" Faulkenberry (Haskell) of Lancaster, SC, as well as many nieces, nephews and a large and loving extended family.

He was predeceased by his sister, Mary Angelique "Angie" Soffera and by his niece, Anne Elizabeth Soffera.

Johnny was educated at Blessed Sacrament School, Bishop England High School and Trident Technical College. He was a member of Stella Maris Catholic Church.

Johnny spent 20 years as a machinist at the Charleston Naval Shipyard until its closing and spent 27 happy years at Walmart in Mount Pleasant, becoming warehouse manager before his retirement. Spending time with Sheila and his grandchildren was his first love, and golfing, fishing, and gardening helped fill his free time. He enjoyed working on his pond, affectionately known as "John's Island." Johnny's first loyalty in sports was Notre Dame football, but he was also devoted to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. He followed the Las Vegas Raiders and the Atlanta Braves enthusiastically as well.

Johnny's legacy of love, loyalty and devotion to family will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The Rosary will be recited at 2:30 PM, Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Stella Maris Catholic Church, followed by A Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 3:00 PM.

To continue the Celebration of Johnny's Life, the family will receive friends and relatives at The Fish Shack on Sullivan's Island, 1450 Hennessy Street (also known as Station 15), Sullivan's Island, SC 29482.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Stella Maris Building Fund, 1204 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.

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01/16/2026

Dennis Higgs

Dennis E. Higgs, 77, of Charleston, South Carolina passed away peacefully on January 12th, embraced by the love of his family in his final moments. He was the devoted husband of Kelly Higgs and loving father of Stacey Gros (Kevin), and a doting grandfather to Parker and Addison Gros.

Dennis was a truly kind soul who brightened every room he entered. Known for his wonderful sense of humor and storytelling abilities, he was beloved by all who knew him. Even during prolonged health difficulties, his unwavering optimism and positive attitude never faltered-a testament to the strength of his Christian faith that guided him throughout his life.

Dennis leaves behind his loving wife Kelly; his daughter Stacey and son-in-law Kevin; grandchildren Parker and Addison Gros; and his five sisters: Cindy Groves (Kisler), Betty Livingston, Carla Lutz (Mark), Mary Wolf (Bill), and Barbara Mahoney (Dave). As the eldest child and only son, he held a special place in his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton and Mary Elizabeth Wells and John Higgs.

A private graveside service took place on January 14th. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 1:30pm on January 31st at Asbury-St. James United Methodist Church, 754 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston, SC 29403.

Those wishing to honor Dennis' memory may consider memorial donations to Asbury-St. James United Methodist Church, The Lowcountry Food Bank; or a charity of their choice, in lieu of flowers.

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01/12/2026

Joe Badger

Beloved husband and father, Joe Ivey Badger of Charleston, SC died Saturday, January 10, 2026.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:30 AM Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Nativity Catholic Church, 1061 Folly Road, Charleston. The Rite of Committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 604 Fort Johnson Road. The family will receive friends between 5:00 & 7:00 PM Wednesday at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston.

Joe was born in Charleston, SC on January 31, 1945, the son of the late Jeanette Kendrick Badger and James Fred Badger. He was a graduate of Murray Vocational High School and worked as a Machinist Foreman at the Charleston Naval Shipyard. Joe enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, football and he was an accomplished horseman. He was a member of the Church of the Nativity on James Island.

Joe is survived by his wife Madeleine M. (Meg) Badger, children James K. (Jimmy) Badger and daughter Jennifer J. (J.J.) Tanzer (John Tanzer), brother Ben Badger, sister-in-law Helen M. Dodds (Kenneth A. Dodds) and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers James F. Badger and Kenneth Badger, sisters Barbara Spitzer, Nell Lutge and Jacqueline Morrison, sisters-in-law Mary M. Mains and Julia M. Dyer.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister (843) 766-1365.

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01/10/2026

Pets stand by us through thick and thin as companions, and when they age, it can be hard to accept that they will eventually die. The article below explores different practices you can use to prepare for your pet's eventual passing.

If your pet's health is declining, consider how you can improve their final days. Find tips you can use to prepare yourself in this article.

01/08/2026

Beatrice McCulloch

Beatrice Mary Burkhardt McCulloch, 82, of Charleston, SC, widow of James H. McCulloch, Sr. entered into eternal rest on December 30, 2025.

Beatrice was born February 7, 1943 in Charleston, SC. She is a daughter of the late Edward J. Burkhardt, Sr. and Beatrice C. Strickland Burkhardt .

Beatrice was a beautiful woman who loved every person she met unconditionally. She loved nature and gardening immensely, almost as much as she loved those she encountered along the way. Beatrice would not want you to be sad today, but rather to rejoice in the freedom that she now has in the spirit of those who have gone before her to become one with God. Her sense of humor was brash, unfiltered and construed mostly to get you to see the lighter side of life. One day at a time was the way she lived and never giving up was the strongest message she sent to all that she loved. She never met a stranger and always tried to brighten everyone's day regardless of their perception of life at the time... she lived within the spirit and shared that with everyone. Today Beatrice would like to see you unify in love and not to dwell in sadness. "Peace be with you" was her most favorite thing to say. She meant it deeply!

Beatrice is survived by her son, James H. McCulloch, Jr.; her grandson, Cameron T. McCulloch; her nephews, Edward Christopher Burkhardt and Jason Burkhardt; her niece, Courtney Burkhardt; her sisters, Mrs. Joanne Kelly and Mrs. Gloria Jenkins; her niece, Mrs. Theresa Stickland; her brother, Mr. David McCulloch along with many other friends, family, people she loved and that loved her and cared for her along the way.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM, Monday January 12, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 5 St. Teresa Drive, Charleston. The Rite of Committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 604 Ft. Johnson Road.

Memorials may be made to MUSC Foundation/ Hollings Cancer Center, 18 Bee Street, MSC 450, Charleston, SC 29425.

Arrangements by James A McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.

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01/08/2026

Carium Joseph

Carium Joseph, MD (b.10/6/29), son of Moses and Sadda Joseph of Greeleyville, SC entered into eternal rest on Monday January 5, 2026. He is survived by his children, Kathy Joseph Macaron, Kevin Joseph, Dr. Molly Joseph (Scott Pressler) , Amy Joseph Collins (Bryan Collins), Jennifer Joseph Fraser (Keith Fraser); his grandchildren, Megan Geckle Giebler (Matthew Giebler), Dr. Hannah Pressler, Luke Pressler, Jennifer Joseph, Elise Macaron, Chase Collins, Caroline Collins, Courtney Collins and his great granddaughter, Maggie Giebler. He is pre-deceased by his late wife, Peggy Conroy Joseph (d.6/2/22), their eldest daughter Karen Joseph (d.10/24/09), his daughter-in-law, Sally Ballard Joseph (d.12/06/04), his son-in-law Elie Macaron (d.2/20/21) and his brothers, Philip Joseph, Joe Joseph, Fred Joseph, Kelly Joseph, and his sisters, Janey Shahid, Sarah Shaluely, and Marie Snyder.

He graduated as Valedictorian of his high school class in 1946 from Greeleyville High School. He received his B.S. in Biology from Georgetown University in 1950. He attended the Georgetown University School of Medicine and received his M.D. degree in 1954. A Rotating Internship was completed at the DC General Hospital in Washington, D.C. in June 1955. He then volunteered to serve in the United States Air Force for a two year period.

During his service tour he traveled through the Middle East and adjacent countries as a Captain in the USAF while being stationed at the base in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia for one year. He became an interim Hospital Commander for several months when the Hospital Commander had to return to the States for other duties.

Upon completion of his tour of service, he began his OBGYN residency at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC July 1, 1957. During his first year of training, he met the love of his life, Peggy Ann Conroy, who was in her second year in the Georgetown School of Nursing. She graduated in 1959 and he completed his residency on June 30, 1960. They were married July 5, 1960 and moved to Charleston, SC to pursue his dream of starting a solo practice in OBGYN and raise a family.

His purpose and approach in his marriage, family and professional life was rooted in his Jesuit education. In care of the patient, he tended to the wholeness of their being and his patients truly felt the sincerity of his care. He often spoke that the true sign of success was meeting the individual needs of the patient. His great moment of joy during his 45 years of practice in OBGYN was when his daughter, Dr. Molly Joseph, joined the practice as a partner in 1996. He had the honor and pleasure of practicing with her for ten years before retiring on September 1, 2006.

Carium was a devoted Catholic parishioner of the Blessed Sacrament Parish since 1962, where he and his wife Peggy, with the support of the local Bishop, initiated the PreCana conference program for engaged couples. He also continued service to his community as Chairman of Georgetown University Alumni Admissions program for SC for 45 yrs.

One of his greatest accomplishments during his tenure as Chief of the OBGYN Department at St. Francis Hospital was the program he started, originally named "Fathers in the Delivery Room". It became very successful and within several months it was adopted by the other area community hospitals. He firmly believed this was a constructive effort to promote the family as the social unit of our community at the very beginning of parenting. The joy of seeing the anxious parents upon viewing their newborn infant for the first time was indeed a humbling privilege and honor for him.

His nonprofessional activities were family oriented. He promoted exercise as part of one's lifestyle and encouraged individual responsibility for their health as may be guided by their physician. Blessed with six children, he lived those same lifestyle principles. He enjoyed tennis, golf, running, biking, long walks and in his 80s and 90s he took up water aerobics. He was an avid reader well into his last few months of life as he never stopped seeking the value of intellectual stimulation and learning that the Jesuits instilled in him at an early age. He was humble, kind, and a generous happy man who enjoyed life and meeting people. He truly felt blessed to be an OBGYN physician and have the privilege of caring for his patients and to have the company of his family and children throughout his life.

He was a member of the Charleston County Medical Society, the Medical Society of SC, the SC Medical Society, the American Medical Association, the S.C. OBGYN Society, the American College of OBGYN, active Member of all area hospitals, including Clinical Associate of the Medical University Hospital OBGYN Department and also served a tenure as Chief of Infectious Disease at Roper Hospital in his early professional career. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a founding member of the Optimist Club of Charleston.

Family and friends of Dr. Carium Joseph are invited to attend his visitation between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM Thursday January 15, 2025 at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC. The Rosary will be recited at 6:30 PM at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12:30 PM Friday, January 16th, 2025 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 5 Saint Teresa Drive, Charleston, SC. The Rite of Committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery on James Island.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Dr. Carium Joseph to the Blessed Sacrament Parish Life Center at www.scbss.org/giving

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, (843) 766-1365.

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01/07/2026

Ralph Campbell

Ralph Dean Campbell, born on October 30, 1960 in Charleston, South Carolina, passed away suddenly on January 1, 2026. A beloved figure in his community, Ralph dedicated his life to the food and beverage industry, where he achieved notable success as a Club Manager. His career spanned several decades across South Carolina and Michigan, where he cultivated a deep knowledge of cuisines and the vital role hospitality plays in people's lives.

Ralph had diverse passions, enjoying golf, spending time at the beach, and cycling through his hometown of Charleston and its neighboring islands. He was known for his love for his brothers, sons, and an adoration for dogs, and during his time in Michigan, he also developed a fondness for skiing and hockey - experiences that stayed with him throughout the rest of his life.

Ralph is survived by his father, Michael Campbell; brothers, Mike, Stephen, Walter and Paul Campbell; sons, Robert, Matthew and Scott Campbell; daughters-in-law, Roberta Cajado and Melissa Campbell; granddaughter, Nina Campbell; grandsons, Tomas Campbell and Miles Campbell; sisters-in-law, Polly Porter-Campbell, Carla Campbell, Lynn Campbell and Lia Campbell as well as nieces and nephews, including Sara Jane Godwin, Sean Campbell, Eric Campbell, Zach Campbell, Celia Campbell and Ryan Campbell.

Ralph was preceded in death by his mother, Caroline Campbell.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church 10:30 AM January 10, 2026, followed by the Rite of Committal at Holy Cross Cemetery at 12:00 pm. The family will receive friends at James A. McAlister Funeral Home between 5:00 & 7:00 PM Friday,January 9, 2026. Ralph will be laid to rest in Charleston, SC, where his memory will be honored by all who knew him.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365

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