John Andrew Cromer, Jr.

John Andrew Cromer Jr., 89, died peacefully Sunday, September 18th, 2016 at Generations of Batesburg Assisted Living. He leaves his wife of 67 years, Irdell (Smith) Cromer; his daughter Charlene Heyward and spouse Henry Heyward; his son John Andrew (Andy) Cromer III; four grandchildren: John Andrew Cromer IV, Crystin Whinghter spouse Nathan, Justin Heyward spouse Mandy, Lauren Simmons spouse Jeremey; 3 great-grandchildren: Charlee & Andie Satcher, Rhett Heyward. Born in Saluda County to John & Amzy Mae Cromer. Raised on a farm in Monetta, SC with 2 brothers and 3 sisters. They included Cassie Mae Folley, Miriam Brown, Thurmond Cromer, Jackie Stone, and Luzon Brunson Cromer. In his early years, he attended and graduated from Monetta High School and then attended Newberry College. John met his 'Bride' Irdell while working as a salesman for Jernigan Hardware. They were married in her childhood home. Employment opportunities moved them to Columbia, SC but the majority of their married life was spent in Augusta, GA, Blythe, GA and Aiken, SC. He was employed by Savannah River Plant. John owned Quality Specialty Plumbing Supply in Aiken, SC for 30+ years; where he not only took pride in his business, but truly relished the friends he made during his time in business. After a short retirement, he worked for Lowe's of Aiken, into his early 80's. John had a passion for everything outdoors but particularly enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was a faithful servant of his church where he served as a Sunday school teacher and deacon. This service came out of his reliance on Jesus Christ as his savior. A funeral service will be held Wednesday September 21 at Aiken First Baptist Church. Visitation starts at 10:00 a.m. in the church parlor and funeral service directly following at 11:00 with Reverend Dr. Fred W. Andrea, III officiating. Interment will follow in Bethany Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 3157, Aiken, SC 29802 SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC John’s online guest book may be signed at www.shellhousefuneralhome.com To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Andrew Cromer, Jr., please visit our flower store.