Obituaries

Local Obituaries for Aiken South Carolina & Surrounding Areas.

Brian David James

Brian David James

Jun 28, 2025

AIKEN, SC- Mr. Brian David James, 82, passed away at home Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Brian was born June 16, 1943, in Cheltenham, England, and raised in Longlevens, Gloucester, England; he was the son of the late Harold Leslie and Enid Mary Kingston James.

Brian was so beloved by his three surviving daughters, who were by his side until the very end, Sarah...

Dennis L. Smith

Dennis L. Smith

Jul 30, 2025

DENNIS L. SMITH, 72, of Clinton, TN and Aiken, SC, passed away Wednesday morning, July 30, 2025 in Aiken Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

The family will receive friends Saturday morning, August 9th beginning at 11 o'clock at Shellhouse - Rivers Funeral Home.

The funeral service will follow at Noon.  Interment will be in Historic Bethany Cemetery.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST...

Benny Scott Clayton

Benny Scott Clayton

Jul 29, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Benny Scott Clayton, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at Shellhouse Funeral Home on Hayne Ave.

A full obituary will be forthcoming.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801 

Paul Trotti Dyches

Paul Trotti Dyches

Jul 29, 2025

Paul Trotti Dyches passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in Aiken, South Carolina, after a seven-month battle with cancer. He was 67.

He is survived by his daughters Michelle Miller (David), Angie Wikert, and Paula Dyches; grandchildren, Dylan Miller, Trevor Miller, Angelica Landers, Savannah Landers, Victoria Landers, Chloe Seigler, Matthew Nealy, Luke Dyches, Ethan Wikert; siblings, Ben T. Dyches III...

Betty T. Blanchard

Betty T. Blanchard

Jul 27, 2025

BETTY TALMADGE TUCKER BLANCHARD, 76, beloved wife of Roy Edward “Eddie” Blanchard, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Augusta, Betty was a daughter of Paul Brown Tucker, Sr. and Elma Earline Royal Tucker. She grew up in Burke County, Georgia. After their marriage on November 11, 1972, Betty moved to Aiken, where...

Catherine Marie Hevel

Catherine Marie Hevel

Jul 27, 2025

Mrs. Catherine Marie Hevel, 71, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025.

Cathy was born in Quincy, IL, daughter of the late Robert L. and Bonnie Hamann Campbell.

Cathy is survived by her beloved husband, Stephen D. Hevel; son, Shawn (Tiffany) Hevel, Lancaster, SC. Daughter, Christy H. (William) Waits, Aiken; grandchildren, Benjamin Waits and Bryce (Jara) Hevel; sisters, Terri (Vic) Seybold, Punta Gorda,...

Jeremy John Latham

Jeremy John Latham

Jul 26, 2025

AIKEN, SC - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jeremy John Latham, known to many as “Jay” who left us after a short, but courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at the age of 50. Jeremy’s vibrant personality, quick wit, and boundless love for sports will be remembered by all who had the privilege of...

Rory Murguia

Rory Murguia

Jul 24, 2025

Rory Murguia, 57, passed away peacefully on the evening of July 24, 2025, at her home in Aiken, SC. Born in Carlsbad, CA, she was a daughter of the late Robert Fox and Josephine Mercado Murguia.

A proud member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indian Tribe, Rory held a deep appreciation for her Native American heritage. Throughout her life, she...

Wendy Lewis

Wendy Lewis

Jul 23, 2025

Wendy-Jo Lewis of Aiken, SC, formerly of Weston, MA and Sherborn, MA, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025 following an extended illness which she battled courageously. 

The daughter of the late Stanley and Eve Lewis, she was predeceased by her former husband, Rory O’Neill.

 She was a graduate of Pine Manor College and attended the University of Colorado Boulder. Her love...

Grace S. Waters

Grace S. Waters

Jul 23, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Grace “Gracie” Simpson Waters passed peacefully at 12:23pm, July 23, 2025 after a brief attempt at recovery from a recent accident.

She was born in Jacksonville, Florida to Roy Simpson and Ellen Mange Sillisen, and from that moment of birth until just last Wednesday, she was the epitome of not only physical beauty but also an inner beauty...

Mary Hoover Beard

Mary Hoover Beard

Jul 22, 2025

Mary Ann Hoover Beard, 80, entered into eternal rest on the evening of Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in the comfort of her home in Aiken, South Carolina, surrounded by her loving family. 

Born in Winnsboro, SC, to the late Belton H. and Salley Driggers Hoover, Mary was the cherished wife of the late Charles “Red” Beard. Together, they built a life...

Harry O. Poston, Sr.

Harry O. Poston, Sr.

Jul 22, 2025

HARRY O. POSTON, SR., 96, passed away Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025 in his home surrounded by his loving family.

A native of Tampa, FL, Harry was a son of the late Hampton and Anna Mae Dansby Poston. He was a Corporal in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After he was discharged from Fort Gordon, Harry stayed in Augusta...

Billy Laurey

Billy Laurey

Jul 17, 2025

James William “Billy” Laurey, 69, a cherished husband, father, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of July 17, 2025, at his home. He leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories.

Born in Allendale, SC, Billy was the son of Jo Anne Peeples Laurey and the late George Laurey. He dedicated 33 years of his professional career to...

Emily Susan Vine

Emily Susan Vine

Jul 15, 2025

E. Susan Vine, 82, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 15, 2025, at 5:15 a.m.

She was born on December 12, 1942, in Garrettsville, Ohio, to Everett and Mary Irvine Vine, and went on to live a life marked by service, intellect, and quiet strength.

Susan was predeceased by her brother, James Vine, and is survived by her loving wife,...

Stephanie Harris

Stephanie Harris

Jul 13, 2025

Ms. Stephanie Kathleen Harris, 73, of Aiken, SC, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Stephanie was born in Kansas City, MO, on November 4, 1951, the eldest daughter of Charles H. and Ruby Fern Harris. She resided for many years in Denver, CO, and Independence, MO, before moving to Aiken in 2020. Stephanie graduated from Park University in Parkville,...

Sandra Percy Grabowski

Sandra Percy Grabowski

Jul 12, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Sandra Grabowski, a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on July 12th surrounded by her loved ones.

Born to the late Thomas and Alice (Jones) Percy, Sandy proudly served in the Royal Air Force before building a fulfilling life as both a realtor and a devoted homemaker. Her strength, resilience, and quiet kindness touched the lives...

Diane Thomas

Diane Thomas

Jul 11, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Diane (pronounced Dee-ann) or Dee Thomas peacefully went to be with the Lord on the night of Thursday, July 10, 2025. She joined her husband, James H. Thomas, M.D., who passed away in 2020. Dee was 93 years old and had been living in Aiken, South Carolina.

Dee was born in Foxdale, Pennsylvania to Earl and Isabell Williams...

Judith Schofield Mason

Judith Schofield Mason

Jul 11, 2025

Judith (Judi) Schofield Mason entered into rest on July 11, 2025 in Augusta, GA. 

Born November 26, 1939 in Cleveland, OH to Arthur Thomas Shofield and Hazel Vereeke Schofield, Judi lived in Athens, GA for 51 years, raising her family and working various jobs. She served as room mother for all three of her children during their elementary school years, making...

Mary Lou Simitz

Mary Lou Simitz

Jul 10, 2025

MARY LOU SIMITZ, 87, widow of Joseph Simitz, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2025.

A native of Pittsburgh, PA, Mary Lou was a daughter of the late John and Mary Daly Ennis. She had lived in Aiken since 1990, when Joe began work as a systems analyst with SRNS

Surviving are his three daughters, Luanne Hernandez, Tucson, AZ, Terri Carrel (Jack), Las...

David Scott Daniels

David Scott Daniels

Jul 5, 2025

David Scott Daniels, 52, passed away Saturday, July 5, 2025.

Arrangements will be announced by SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC

Local Obituaries for Aiken South Carolina & Surrounding Areas.

Brian David James

Brian David James

Jun 28, 2025

AIKEN, SC- Mr. Brian David James, 82, passed away at home Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Brian was born June 16, 1943, in Cheltenham, England, and raised in Longlevens, Gloucester, England; he was the son of the late Harold Leslie and Enid Mary Kingston James.

Brian was so beloved by his three surviving daughters, who were by his side until the very end, Sarah...

Dennis L. Smith

Dennis L. Smith

Jul 30, 2025

DENNIS L. SMITH, 72, of Clinton, TN and Aiken, SC, passed away Wednesday morning, July 30, 2025 in Aiken Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

The family will receive friends Saturday morning, August 9th beginning at 11 o'clock at Shellhouse - Rivers Funeral Home.

The funeral service will follow at Noon.  Interment will be in Historic Bethany Cemetery.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST...

Benny Scott Clayton

Benny Scott Clayton

Jul 29, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Benny Scott Clayton, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at Shellhouse Funeral Home on Hayne Ave.

A full obituary will be forthcoming.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801 

Paul Trotti Dyches

Paul Trotti Dyches

Jul 29, 2025

Paul Trotti Dyches passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in Aiken, South Carolina, after a seven-month battle with cancer. He was 67.

He is survived by his daughters Michelle Miller (David), Angie Wikert, and Paula Dyches; grandchildren, Dylan Miller, Trevor Miller, Angelica Landers, Savannah Landers, Victoria Landers, Chloe Seigler, Matthew Nealy, Luke Dyches, Ethan Wikert; siblings, Ben T. Dyches III...

Betty T. Blanchard

Betty T. Blanchard

Jul 27, 2025

BETTY TALMADGE TUCKER BLANCHARD, 76, beloved wife of Roy Edward “Eddie” Blanchard, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Augusta, Betty was a daughter of Paul Brown Tucker, Sr. and Elma Earline Royal Tucker. She grew up in Burke County, Georgia. After their marriage on November 11, 1972, Betty moved to Aiken, where...

Catherine Marie Hevel

Catherine Marie Hevel

Jul 27, 2025

Mrs. Catherine Marie Hevel, 71, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025.

Cathy was born in Quincy, IL, daughter of the late Robert L. and Bonnie Hamann Campbell.

Cathy is survived by her beloved husband, Stephen D. Hevel; son, Shawn (Tiffany) Hevel, Lancaster, SC. Daughter, Christy H. (William) Waits, Aiken; grandchildren, Benjamin Waits and Bryce (Jara) Hevel; sisters, Terri (Vic) Seybold, Punta Gorda,...

Jeremy John Latham

Jeremy John Latham

Jul 26, 2025

AIKEN, SC - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jeremy John Latham, known to many as “Jay” who left us after a short, but courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at the age of 50. Jeremy’s vibrant personality, quick wit, and boundless love for sports will be remembered by all who had the privilege of...

Rory Murguia

Rory Murguia

Jul 24, 2025

Rory Murguia, 57, passed away peacefully on the evening of July 24, 2025, at her home in Aiken, SC. Born in Carlsbad, CA, she was a daughter of the late Robert Fox and Josephine Mercado Murguia.

A proud member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indian Tribe, Rory held a deep appreciation for her Native American heritage. Throughout her life, she...

Wendy Lewis

Wendy Lewis

Jul 23, 2025

Wendy-Jo Lewis of Aiken, SC, formerly of Weston, MA and Sherborn, MA, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025 following an extended illness which she battled courageously. 

The daughter of the late Stanley and Eve Lewis, she was predeceased by her former husband, Rory O’Neill.

 She was a graduate of Pine Manor College and attended the University of Colorado Boulder. Her love...

Grace S. Waters

Grace S. Waters

Jul 23, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Grace “Gracie” Simpson Waters passed peacefully at 12:23pm, July 23, 2025 after a brief attempt at recovery from a recent accident.

She was born in Jacksonville, Florida to Roy Simpson and Ellen Mange Sillisen, and from that moment of birth until just last Wednesday, she was the epitome of not only physical beauty but also an inner beauty...

Mary Hoover Beard

Mary Hoover Beard

Jul 22, 2025

Mary Ann Hoover Beard, 80, entered into eternal rest on the evening of Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in the comfort of her home in Aiken, South Carolina, surrounded by her loving family. 

Born in Winnsboro, SC, to the late Belton H. and Salley Driggers Hoover, Mary was the cherished wife of the late Charles “Red” Beard. Together, they built a life...

Harry O. Poston, Sr.

Harry O. Poston, Sr.

Jul 22, 2025

HARRY O. POSTON, SR., 96, passed away Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025 in his home surrounded by his loving family.

A native of Tampa, FL, Harry was a son of the late Hampton and Anna Mae Dansby Poston. He was a Corporal in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After he was discharged from Fort Gordon, Harry stayed in Augusta...

Billy Laurey

Billy Laurey

Jul 17, 2025

James William “Billy” Laurey, 69, a cherished husband, father, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of July 17, 2025, at his home. He leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories.

Born in Allendale, SC, Billy was the son of Jo Anne Peeples Laurey and the late George Laurey. He dedicated 33 years of his professional career to...

Emily Susan Vine

Emily Susan Vine

Jul 15, 2025

E. Susan Vine, 82, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 15, 2025, at 5:15 a.m.

She was born on December 12, 1942, in Garrettsville, Ohio, to Everett and Mary Irvine Vine, and went on to live a life marked by service, intellect, and quiet strength.

Susan was predeceased by her brother, James Vine, and is survived by her loving wife,...

Stephanie Harris

Stephanie Harris

Jul 13, 2025

Ms. Stephanie Kathleen Harris, 73, of Aiken, SC, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Stephanie was born in Kansas City, MO, on November 4, 1951, the eldest daughter of Charles H. and Ruby Fern Harris. She resided for many years in Denver, CO, and Independence, MO, before moving to Aiken in 2020. Stephanie graduated from Park University in Parkville,...

Sandra Percy Grabowski

Sandra Percy Grabowski

Jul 12, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Sandra Grabowski, a beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on July 12th surrounded by her loved ones.

Born to the late Thomas and Alice (Jones) Percy, Sandy proudly served in the Royal Air Force before building a fulfilling life as both a realtor and a devoted homemaker. Her strength, resilience, and quiet kindness touched the lives...

Diane Thomas

Diane Thomas

Jul 11, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Diane (pronounced Dee-ann) or Dee Thomas peacefully went to be with the Lord on the night of Thursday, July 10, 2025. She joined her husband, James H. Thomas, M.D., who passed away in 2020. Dee was 93 years old and had been living in Aiken, South Carolina.

Dee was born in Foxdale, Pennsylvania to Earl and Isabell Williams...

Judith Schofield Mason

Judith Schofield Mason

Jul 11, 2025

Judith (Judi) Schofield Mason entered into rest on July 11, 2025 in Augusta, GA. 

Born November 26, 1939 in Cleveland, OH to Arthur Thomas Shofield and Hazel Vereeke Schofield, Judi lived in Athens, GA for 51 years, raising her family and working various jobs. She served as room mother for all three of her children during their elementary school years, making...

Mary Lou Simitz

Mary Lou Simitz

Jul 10, 2025

MARY LOU SIMITZ, 87, widow of Joseph Simitz, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2025.

A native of Pittsburgh, PA, Mary Lou was a daughter of the late John and Mary Daly Ennis. She had lived in Aiken since 1990, when Joe began work as a systems analyst with SRNS

Surviving are his three daughters, Luanne Hernandez, Tucson, AZ, Terri Carrel (Jack), Las...

David Scott Daniels

David Scott Daniels

Jul 5, 2025

David Scott Daniels, 52, passed away Saturday, July 5, 2025.

Arrangements will be announced by SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC