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Dukes Harley Funeral Home and Crematory, 3379 Columbia Road, Orangeburg, SC (2026)

03/10/2026

Richard Rutledge "Rut" Thomas Jr., 95, of Cope, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on March 9, 2026. He was the loving husband of the late Mary Nell Faust Thomas. Rut was born in Cope, where he spent a lifetime rooted in family, faith, and the land he loved.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Oakland Cemetery, 595 Oakland Road, Cope, SC 29038, with Rev. Chris Furtick and Rev. John Warren officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Friday, March 13, 2026, at Dukes-Harley Funeral Home.

Mr. Thomas was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Nell Faust Thomas; his mother, Emma McLeod Thomas; his father, Richard Rutledge Thomas Sr.; and his sister, Bertie Guyton Warren. He is survived by his children, Emma Karen Thomas, Susan T. Prince (Kenneth), Amanda T. Rice, and Anna R. Thomas, all of Cope, and his son, Richard R. “Dick” Thomas III (April) of Chapin. Known affectionately as “Da,” he was a proud and devoted grandfather to ten grandchildren: Stephen Lee, Dylan Lee (Sonya), Lauren Rice, Silene Stephens (Scott), Kirkland Prince (Billie Jean), Leona Nettles (Nick), Bailey Thomas, Brandon Whitt, Grace Andrews (Zach), and Rutledge Thomas. His legacy continues through seventeen great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many McLeod cousins.

Rut attended Clemson University and served in the first branch of the United States Air Force. After his service, he returned home to the family farm in Cope, where he spent his life as a dedicated dairyman. A true Southern gentleman and a man’s man, he was known for his quick wit, his sweet nature, and the steady strength of his character.

Faith and community were central to his life. He was a lifelong member of Union United Methodist Church of Cope and gave generously of his time and leadership throughout Orangeburg County. He served as President of the Edisto Hunt Club for more than 50 years and was a longtime chairman of the Orangeburg County Election Commission, serving faithfully for 37 years. He also served on Farm Credit in Orangeburg, on the nominating committee for Edisto Electric, and as a Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officer with the SCDNR and spent many nights and days with his buddy, Carl Joye. For decades, he was the beloved hunt master for the annual Thanksgiving Hunt dog-drive, a tradition cherished by many.

Mr. Thomas loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting with his children and grandchildren, passing down stories, traditions, and a deep appreciation for the land. In his later years, his great-grandchildren fondly joked that his “retirement job” consisted of watching the news and episodes of Gunsmoke.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to Union Cemetery Fund, 613 Hudson Road, Cope, SC 29038 or National Wild Turkey Federation, P.O. Box 530, Edgefield, SC 29824.

The family extends special thanks to Debra Downs-Odom, his devoted caregiver, as well as Grove Park Hospice and the many others whose kindness, care, and compassion meant so much to Mr. Thomas and his family.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.dukesharleyfuneralhome.com or https://www.facebook.com/Dukes-Harley-Funeral-Home-and-Crematory-304968586272868

Richard Rutledge Rut Thomas Jr., 95, of Cope, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on March 9, 2026. He was the loving husband of the late Mary Nell Faust Thomas. Rut was born in Cope, where he spent a lifetime rooted in family, faith, and the land he loved.

03/05/2026

Peggy "Granny" Lee Galloway, 91, of North, SC, passed away on March 4, 2026. She was the wife of the late Verne Galloway.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 928 Calvert Road, Brevard, NC 28712, with Brian Hoxit officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, 890 Calvert Road, Brevard, NC 28712.

Peggy was born in Lake Toxaway, NC, a daughter of the late Earle William Lee and Willie Owen Lee. She was a graduate of Rosman High School. Peggy was a loving and devoted mother and homemaker. She was a member of Seventh-day Adventist Church. She enjoyed spending time crocheting, gardening, canning veggies, and spending time with her family.

Peggy was full of personality and spark, being selfless in everything she did. She was always there for her family and friends and was a hard working woman with a strong will, being intentionally loving and would help anyone in need. The world has lost a valuable person, but she was ready to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Peggy is survived by her son, Stuart Dean Galloway of North; three sisters, Jimmy Turner (Stanley) of Brevard, NC, Virginia Medford of Houston, TX, and Bobby Lee of Spartanburg; and two brothers, Pete Lee (Colleen) of Brevard, NC and Mike Lee of Cedar Mountain, NC. She was a loving Granny to her five grandchildren, Taylor Brunson (Nicole), Russell Brunson (Nicole), Tiffany Galloway, Rachel Brown (Trent), and Leah Pombo (Mark); and great-grandchildren, Kayelee, Allyssa, Sydney, Zack, Alexis, Maddison, Matthew, Mila, Emery, and Skylar. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, Robert Verne Galloway; two daughters, Deborah Lynn Galloway and Pamela Kaye Galloway; and one grandson, Stuart Matthew Galloway.

Memorials may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate.

Peggy Granny Lee Galloway, 91, of North, SC, passed away on March 4, 2026. She was the wife of the late Verne Galloway. Funeral services will be held at 100 pm, Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 928 Calvert Road, Brevard, NC 28712, with Brian Hoxit officiating.

03/04/2026

Jean Edwards Blackwood, 96, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on March 2, 2026. She was the wife of the late Frank W. Blackwood.

No services are being held at this time.

Jean was born in Elloree, SC, a daughter of the late Julius Cecil Edwards and Eunice Audrey Edwards. She was a graduate of Elloree High School and retired from her position at A.Y.P. as a shipping specialist. Jean loved to cook, especially Sunday dinners, and feed family and friends around her.

Jean is survived by her children, Charles "Chuck" Polin (Bea) of Columbia, James "Jimmy" Polin of Lexington, Joseph "Joe" Blackwood (Sadie) of Orangeburg, Kimberly "Kim" Bonnette of Orangeburg, and Kathy Blackwood (fiancé J. V. "Buzz" Braxton, II); grandchildren, Jeannie Tooley (Rob), April Crocker (Nathan), Branden Roberts, Cora Moss (Al), Kirkland Bonnette (Morgan), and Michael Ramos (Tatjana); and a number of great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, Frank W. Blackwood, Jr.; and two brothers, J. C. Edwards and Michael Edwards.

Memorials may be sent to the For the Love of a Paw, P.O. Box 3, Elloree, SC 29047.

Jean Edwards Blackwood, 96, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on March 2, 2026. She was the wife of the late Frank W. Blackwood. No services are being held at this time. Jean was born in Elloree, SC, a daughter of the late Julius Cecil Edwards and Eunice Audrey Edwards. She

02/27/2026

"Coach" Elizabeth "Miller" Barker, 62, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 26, 2026.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 pm, Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Denmark Cemetery in Denmark, SC. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm, Monday, March 2, 2026, at Orangeburg Lutheran Church, with Rev. Rick Mason officiating. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Ryan Ethridge, Will Wofford, Sean Tobul, Davis Fogle, Jeffrey Judy, Felder Fogle, and Blake Mixson.

Miller was born in Barnwell, SC, a daughter of the late Dr. Teddy Earl Barker and Julianne Monts Barker. She was a graduate of Willington Academy and Winthrop College where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education. Coach was the P.E. teacher for Edisto Primary for 26 years and Orangeburg Prep for 15 years, leaving a lasting impression on all her students. She was an active member of Orangeburg Lutheran Church where she was the youth director and a member of the church choir. In addition, Coach was an Orangeburg County Board Member for Relay for Life.

Coach was a good friend to all, especially to children and her students. She was a state champion coach for multiple years with girls basketball. Miller loved her family, Edisto Beach and Jimmy Buffet being a true Parrott Head. She never met a stranger and always had a smile to share.

Coach is survived by her brother, Todd Barker; brothers from another mother, Lewis Boice and Bob Wofford; niece, Elizabeth Pearce Barker; "adopted son," Sean Tobul; cousins, Lindsey, Savannah, Ashley, Greg, and Cornelia; and too many sisters to count. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her nephew, Edward Earl Barker.

Memorials may be sent to The Citadel Foundation c/o Edward Earl Barker Memorial Fund, 171 Moultrie Street, Charleston, SC 29409.

The family would like to give a heart-felt thanks to her special care givers, Miesha Yates "MiMi" and her staff, Myra Ardis with Gentiva Hospice, and Charlotte Wofford.

Coach Elizabeth Miller Barker, 62, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 26, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 300 pm, Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Denmark Cemetery in Denmark, SC. A memorial service will be held at 400 pm, Monday, March 2, 2026, at Orangeburg Lutheran Church,

02/26/2026

William "Billy" A. Sanford, 86, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 24, 2026. He was the husband of Brenda Kemmerlin Sanford.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 pm, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at First Baptist Church with Rev. Ryan Tucker officiating.

Billy was born in Denmark, SC, a son of the late Derward Hamilton Sanford and Margaret Stevenson Sanford. He attended the University of South Carolina and was a former data processor for Utica Tool company. Billy retired from his position as the Lead Job Recruiter at the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Orangeburg where he served as a former deacon and long time member of the church choir. Billy was involved with the youth program and children's ministry and the church's soup kitchen.

In addition to his wife, Billy is survived by his daughters, Kelli Sanford Anderson (Scottie) and Traci Sanford Evans; grandchildren, Hunter Sanford Anderson, Logan Elizabeth Anderson, and Ella Inabnit Evans; and sisters, Judy Sanford Jackson and Margaret Ann S. Barr (Timmy). In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, D. H. Sanford, Jr.

Memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church, 1240 Russell Street, Orangeburg, SC 29115.

William Billy A. Sanford, 86, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 24, 2026. He was the husband of Brenda Kemmerlin Sanford. A memorial service will be held at 1200 pm, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at First Baptist Church with Rev. Ryan Tucker officiating. Billy was born in Denmark, SC,

02/25/2026

Debra Catoe Allen, 71, of St. Matthews, SC, passed away on February 22, 2026. She was the wife of Edward C. Allen.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Dukes-Harley Funeral Home to celebrate the life of Debra.

Debra was born in Lancaster, SC, a daughter of the late John Francis Catoe and Josephine Catoe. She was an alumnus of Lancaster High School and the University of South Carolina where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature then later her Master's Degree in Library Science. Debra retired in 2020 from her position as the Deputy Director of the Orangeburg County Library, having proudly served there for 40 years. An avid reader and phenomenal cook, she loved her feline friends of which she had many, most recently Jack, Kyra, and Amber. She carried on her parents’ green thumb as she enjoyed gardening and was once a member of the St. Matthews Rose Garden Club. Debra kept her mind sharp with crossword puzzles, loved collecting antiques, and vacationing at the beach with family and friends.

In addition to her husband, Debra is survived by her sister, Barbara C. Truesdale; nephew, Robert J. Truesdale (Jill); great-nephew, Jonathan Truesdale; aunts, Margaret Baker and Kay Furbee (Larry); and numerous other family members.

Memorials may be sent to the Orangeburg SPCA, 225 Ruf Road, Orangeburg, SC 29118 and For the Love of Paws, P.O. Box 3, Elloree, SC 29047.

Debra Catoe Allen, 71, of St. Matthews, SC, passed away on February 22, 2026. She was the wife of Edward C. Allen. The family will receive friends from 500 pm to 700 pm, Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Dukes-Harley Funeral Home to celebrate the life of Debra. Debra was born

02/19/2026

Mike Amos "Famous Amos," 74, of Columbia, SC, passed away on February 17, 2026. He was the husband of Sallie Stover Amos.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Dukes-Harley Funeral Home. The family encourages to dress casual with bright, cheerful colors. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Mike was born in Greenwood, SC, son of the late C. C. Amos and Cornelia Yeatts Amos. He grew up in Orangeburg, SC and graduated from Orangeburg High School. He worked for Williams Music and was a music sales representative for other music companies. Mike's true passion was playing in his bands, KrackerJam, Kingfish, The Kicks, Common Ground, The Insiders and most recently Split Decision. In addition to his love and passion for music, he loved watching movies and TV shows.

The family has received numerous messages, texts, emails and social media comments from friends over the United States and ones considered family. These messages have provided great comfort to the family. An excerpt from one of those messages from Randy Etters was , “My thoughts have been clouded with an immense sadness that I can neither control or lessen. I have always viewed my life as a series of encounters. There are people who have single handedly changed the direction of my life by simply being a part of it. One of these people is Mike Amos. In 1979, I was sitting in my music class with the incomparable Dwight McMillan in walks this guy with long hair and big glasses carrying an electric guitar. He was there as a favor to Mr. McMillan, little did I know that a few years later, that same guy would be the catalyst for my journey with the Kicks and a lifelong brotherhood and bond that defies logic. Mike knew I was financially unable to buy gear, so he loaned me his favorite Hamer guitar, and amp and even a strap, so that I could play in the band. That act of kindness would be duplicated many times over the years. They say a measure of a man is the legacy that he leaves behind. Mike’s legacy is family, music, friends, band brothers and a generous spirit that will live on long after we are gone. He is an example for all of us to live life to the fullest. I imagine he packed more life into 74 years than most would if they lived to be 100. This Saturday, I will be sharing stories, hugging his family, and seeing old friends in an effort to celebrate his life. And I do celebrate his life, but I celebrate my life as well because I have been blessed to encounter “Famous”. Until then, I will spend time with my memories of my friend.”

Messages to the family have included the words “icon”, “mentor”, “idol” and many others.

In addition to his wife, Mike is survived by his daughters, Michelle Constable (Chris) and Kimberley Lewis (Stephen); grandchildren, Haley Dorsey (Nathan), Will Dorsey (Lily), Caleb Lewis, and Anna Kate Lewis; sister, Janice Gantt (Ted); and a number of nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his nephew, Kevin Michael Edgemon.

Memorials may be sent to the Orangeburg SPCA, 225 Ruf Road, Orangeburg, SC 29118 and the American Heart Association, http://www.heart.org/honor-memorial.

Mike Amos Famous Amos, 74, of Columbia, SC, passed away on February 17, 2026. He was the husband of Sallie Stover Amos. The family will receive friends from 400 pm to 700 pm, Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Dukes-Harley Funeral Home. The family encourages to dress casual with bright, cheerful

02/16/2026

Stella Harden Callahan, 77, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 13, 2026. She was the wife of the late Jimmy Callahan.

Private services will be held by the family.

Stella was born in Aiken, SC, a daughter of the late Henry Howard Harden and Mary Howard Harden. She was a health care provider and certified nursing assistant at The Methodist Home and, later, was a private care giver. Stella was affiliated to the Baptist faith. She loved her flowers and animals.

Stella is survived by her daughter, Sheila C. Phillips (Gary); two sons, Phillip E. Callahan and Jimmy K. Callahan (Jessica); brother, Warren Howard "Nick" Harden; grandchildren, Maddison Taylor Callahan and Justin Thomas Callahan.

Stella Harden Callahan, 77, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 13, 2026. She was the wife of the late Jimmy Callahan. Private services will be held by the family. Stella was born in Aiken, SC, a daughter of the late Henry Howard Harden and Mary Howard Harden. She was

02/16/2026

Jimmy Callahan, 78, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 13, 2026. He was the husband of the late Stella Harden Callahan.

Private services will be held by the family.

Jimmy was born in Orangeburg, SC, a son of the late David Eugene Callahan and Ruby Neal Cook Williams. He retired from Starflo as an electrician and welder. Jimmy was affiliated to the Baptist faith. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, especially c**n hunting and raising c**n dogs.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Sheila C. Phillips (Gary); two sons, Phillip E. Callahan and Jimmy K. Callahan (Jessica); two brothers, William Hair and Ronnie Joe Hair; and grandchildren, Maddison Taylor Callahan and Justin Thomas Callahan.

Jimmy Callahan, 78, of Orangeburg, SC, passed away on February 13, 2026. He was the husband of the late Stella Harden Callahan. Private services will be held by the family. Jimmy was born in Orangeburg, SC, a son of the late David Eugene Callahan and Ruby Neal Cook Williams. He

02/13/2026

Pamela "Pam" Rose Lucas,71, of Bamberg, SC, passed away on January 24, 2026.

No services are being held at this time.

Pam was born in Kershaw County, SC, a daughter of the late Doc Lucas and Maxine Whitley Lucas.

Pam is survived by her niece, Lisa Kay Keisler; and her friends, John and Gloria "Tina" Kennedy.

Pamela Pam Rose Lucas,71, of Bamberg, SC, passed away on January 24, 2026. No services are being held at this time. Pam was born in Kershaw County, SC, a daughter of the late Doc Lucas and Maxine Whitley Lucas. Pam is survived by her niece, Lisa Kay Keisler and her

02/11/2026

Jesse David "J.D." Shirer, Jr., a pillar of the Lone Star community, passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 83. He was the beloved husband to Martha Emily Carson Shirer for 62 years, who was the center of his world.

A celebration of JD’s life will honor a man who was as steadfast as the timber he protected and as sweet as the wine he prepared for the congregation. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Pine Grove Lutheran Church in Lone Star, SC, with the Rev. Bill Ebener, Rev. Tony Everett, and Rev. Olin Chassereau officiating. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Friday, February 13, 2026, at Dukes-Harley Funeral Home.

J.D. was born in Orangeburg, SC, a son of the late Jesse D. Shirer, Sr. and Christine Zeagler Shirer. JD was a proud graduate of Cameron High School and the Carolina College of Commerce. A lifelong dedicated steward of the land, he was the owner of J.D. Shirer Farms and served as a member of the South Carolina Forestry Commission Board for Calhoun County. His commitment to agriculture and community was further evidenced by his six years on the Calhoun County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and his status as a charter member of the Lone Star Lions Club.

J.D. lived a life defined by service and faith. He was an active member and Treasurer of Pine Grove Lutheran Church, where he took great pride in continuing the family tradition of crafting scuppernong wine for Holy Communion. His service was recognized by his status as an Honorary Life Member of the SC Lutheran Men. Additionally, JD was a dedicated Mason for 50 years, serving as a Past Master Mason with Pine Grove Lodge 125. He also held membership in the National Eagle Scout Association.

Beyond his formal roles, JD was best known for his generous spirit. Whether he was frying chicken for friends and family or making his famous peanut brittle, his hands were always busy serving others. He found peace fishing in his ponds and was often seen patrolling the local roads in his truck with his favorite riding partner, his dog Briggs, by his side.

In addition to his loving wife of the home, J.D. is survived by his children, David Shirer, Donna S. Corcoran (Scott), and Mark Shirer; grandchildren, Kasey S. Baker (Brantley), Travis E. Shirer (Branna), and Harlie Anne C. Eddins (Greyson); great-grandchildren, Wesley Baker, Kolton Baker, and Copeland Eddins; sisters, Margaret Mims (Richard) and Linda Koucky; brother, Mike Shirer (Kristi); and a number of nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be sent to Pine Grove Lutheran Church, Building Fund, 2688 McCords Ferry Road, Lone Star, SC 29030.

Jesse David J.D. Shirer, Jr., 83, of Lone Star, SC, passed away on February 11, 2026. He was the husband of Martha Emily Carson Shirer. Funeral services will be held at 1100 am, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Pine Grove Lutheran Church in Lone Star, SC. The burial will follow

02/11/2026

Henrietta Reeves Dukes, 84, of Rowesville, SC, passed away on February 11, 2026. She was the wife of Thomas William Dukes.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at New Hope Cemetery in Rowesville, SC, with Rev. Ryan Tucker officiating.

Henrietta was born in Reevesville, SC, a daughter of the late Eddie Charlie Reeves and Susie Walter Reeves. She dedicated eighteen years to the United States Postal Service.

In addition to her husband, Henrietta is survived by her son, Thomas G. Dukes; and two sisters, Gussie Whetstone and Faye Robertson. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her daughter, Lynne Dukes Cooper.

Henrietta Reeves Dukes, 84, of Rowesville, SC, passed away on February 11, 2026. She was the wife of Thomas William Dukes. A graveside service will be held at 200 pm, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at New Hope Cemetery in Rowesville, SC, with Rev. Ryan Tucker officiating. Henrietta was born in

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