Obituaries

Local Obituaries for Aiken South Carolina & Surrounding Areas.

Barbara Powers Eaves

Barbara Powers Eaves

Dec 2, 2025

BARBARA JEAN POWERS EAVES, 84, cherished wife of the late Dr. S. Gilmore Eaves, Sr., passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025 in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Charleston, WV, Barbara was the daughter of the late William Earl and Marguerite Robertson Powers, Sr. In 1959, she relocated to New Ellenton and soon married Dr....

George William Castles

George William Castles

Nov 30, 2025

George William Castles, 88, passed away Sunday, November 30, 2025.

George was born in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Henry and Lillian Weed Castles. He graduated from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. He retired in 1997 as Assistant Financial Director for the New York Health and Hospital Corporation. After retiring, George and Ginny moved to the Woodside Plantation in Aiken, SC....

Joyce Elaine Doolittle

Joyce Elaine Doolittle

Nov 29, 2025

GRANITEVILLE, SC - Joyce Elaine Doolittle, born on July 16, 1966, in Aiken, SC, passed away on November 29, 2025. Joyce dedicated over 28 years of her career to the Aiken County Detention Center, where she made a lasting impact through her hard work and commitment.

Joyce was a warm and loving individual who cherished her family deeply. She was married...

Steven Lupton

Steven Lupton

Nov 29, 2025

Orrie Steven Lupton, 71, passed away peacefully at home on November 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

A native of New Bern, North Carolina, Steven was born to the late Woodrow Muriel and Ethel Lee Edwards Lupton. He was raised with a strong work ethic instilled in him by his grandmother, working alongside his siblings on tobacco farms during his...

Richard Van Bebber

Richard Van Bebber

Nov 27, 2025

In loving memory of Richard Don Van Bebber of Aiken, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the age of 88 years. He was a devoted husband of Sharon Van Bebber, loving father of Richard, Vanicia, Deana and grandfather to his four grandchildren.

Richard was born on March 2, 1937, in Oklahoma. He spent the majority of his life...

Donald Michael Hodgkins

Donald Michael Hodgkins

Nov 27, 2025

Donald Michael Hodgkins, 67, passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Affectionately known as Don or “Big Don”. Born in Wellsville, NY, Don was the cherished only child of Donald Victor and Crystle Reinard Hodgkins. A hardworking man, he spent more than 20 years proudly owning and operating his trucking company before retiring after 15 years of dedicated service as Facilities Director...

Robert G. English

Robert G. English

Nov 27, 2025

Robert G. English (Bob), age 92, of Aiken, South Carolina, formerly of Elloree, South Carolina, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his home. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Grace McCallister English Polatty and John Waymon English. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Juanita Malone English, daughter, Darlene Patti...

Howard Jacob Brounce

Howard Jacob Brounce

Nov 26, 2025

On November 26th at 10:28 PM, Howard Jacob Brounce of Uniontown, PA and Aiken, SC peacefully passed away. He was surrounded by loved ones at his home at the Trinity on Laurens retirement community in Aiken, South Carolina. Howard, or Howie/Howdy as his friends and family affectionately called him, was born in Monongahela, PA on January 24th of 1932 to...

Cynthia Kay Padgett

Cynthia Kay Padgett

Nov 25, 2025

CYNTHIA KAY PADGETT, 72, widow of Carl Thomas “Tommy” Padgett, passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, November 25, 2025 in her home.

A lifelong resident of Aiken, Cynthia was a daughter of the late Raymond, Sr., and Jessie Heath Marks. She dedicated her career to education, serving as a librarian at Millbrook Elementary School within Aiken County Public Schools until her retirement. Her...

Charles Earl Simons III

Charles Earl Simons III

Nov 24, 2025

The Honorable Charles (Chuck) E. Simons, III, 83, of Aiken, South Carolina, passed away in his sleep in the early hours of Monday, November 24, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 3 pm on Sunday, November 30, 2025 at St. John’s Methodist Church in Aiken with a reception in Ward Hall following the service.

The oldest son of The...

Merit James Henderson

Merit James Henderson

Nov 23, 2025

Merit James Henderson, 36, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Merit was born in San Diego, CA, son of David and Susan Davis Faulkner, Aiken, and David Henderson, Fort Worth, TX. He spent his formative years in the Tri Cities of Washington.

Merit was a gifted artist. As an adult he adopted building supplies and materials as his medium. He passionately looked...

Jo Ann Angel Whittington

Jo Ann Angel Whittington

Nov 23, 2025

Mrs. Jo Ann Angel Whittington, 87, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Jo Ann was born in South Charleston, WV and was the daughter of the late Gratton George and Aubrey Jane Angel.

She was a 1955 graduate of South Charleston High School and lived in South Charleston and Scott Depot, WV before moving to Aiken, SC to be closer to family....

Paula Kay Zavorka

Paula Kay Zavorka

Nov 19, 2025

PAULA KAY ZAVORKA, 56, beloved wife of Charles E. “Chuck” Zavorka, Jr., passed away Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

A native of Laramie, WY, Paula was a daughter of Terrance “Joe” and Carol Carlson Bromley. She volunteered and also pursued her education to become a dental assistant while stationed with her husband at Fort Irwin, CA. She worked for the United States...

Richard Albert Mueller

Richard Albert Mueller

Nov 18, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Richard Albert Mueller, 88, beloved husband of Mary Catherine Mueller, left this world peacefully on November 18, 2025.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, on October 16, 1937, Richard's life was characterized by service, love, and a deep commitment to his family and community.

A proud veteran, Richard served honorably in the Air Force, dedicating eight years to active duty and...

Margaret Smedes Rose

Margaret Smedes Rose

Nov 16, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Margaret Smedes Rose, 71, passed away on November 16, 2025.

A native of Greenville, SC, Margaret was a daughter of the late Harvey McKoy Rose and Lydia Leitner Rose and grew up with her two sisters. They rode horses, fished, and played in the neighborhood until the streetlights came on, creating a close-knit bond.

Margaret’s love of horses resulted in...

Loretta Marie Beckner (nee Miller)

Loretta Marie Beckner (nee Miller)

Nov 16, 2025

Loretta Marie Beckner (nee Miller)

Beloved wife, loving mother, grandmother and dear friend passed away in Aiken after an extended battle with pancreatic cancer. Loretta was born in Hays, Kansas, January 19, 1949. She was the second of 7 children born to Frank and Elizabeth (Haffner) Miller.

Growing up on a wheat farm in the high plains of western Kansas, she was...

Roger David Ritch, Sr.

Roger David Ritch, Sr.

Nov 16, 2025

ROGER DAVID RITCH SR., 81, of Aiken, South Carolina, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Sunday, November 16th, 2025.

Born to the late Robert and Mildred Ritch in Indian Trail, North Carolina, Roger was a dedicated Army veteran, having served honorably during the tours in Korea and Vietnam. He demonstrated a strong work ethic throughout his life, retiring...

Julianne McGraw Adams

Julianne McGraw Adams

Nov 15, 2025

Julianne McGraw Adams, 83, passed away Saturday, Nov 15, 2025, in her home.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

SHELLHOUSE-RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 715 E. PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC 29801

Penny Lynn Bliss

Penny Lynn Bliss

Nov 15, 2025

Penny Spaulding Bliss, 73, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Aiken, South Carolina.

Born in Burlington, Vermont, to Robert and Grace (Yandow) Spaulding, Penny spent more than 30 years working in various secretarial positions, where her dedication and friendly nature touched many lives.

On September 11, 1971, Penny married the love of her life, David J. Bliss, and together they...

Dr. Gary Leazer

Dr. Gary Leazer

Nov 15, 2025

Gary Herbert Leazer, age 80, beloved husband of the late Ruth Leazer, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Aiken Memory Care.

Born in Keokuk, Iowa, Gary was the son of the late Herbert and Delphia Rube Leazer. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the Navy during the Vietnam War.

Gary pursued his education with great dedication,...

Local Obituaries for Aiken South Carolina & Surrounding Areas.

Barbara Powers Eaves

Barbara Powers Eaves

Dec 2, 2025

BARBARA JEAN POWERS EAVES, 84, cherished wife of the late Dr. S. Gilmore Eaves, Sr., passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025 in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Charleston, WV, Barbara was the daughter of the late William Earl and Marguerite Robertson Powers, Sr. In 1959, she relocated to New Ellenton and soon married Dr....

George William Castles

George William Castles

Nov 30, 2025

George William Castles, 88, passed away Sunday, November 30, 2025.

George was born in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Henry and Lillian Weed Castles. He graduated from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. He retired in 1997 as Assistant Financial Director for the New York Health and Hospital Corporation. After retiring, George and Ginny moved to the Woodside Plantation in Aiken, SC....

Joyce Elaine Doolittle

Joyce Elaine Doolittle

Nov 29, 2025

GRANITEVILLE, SC - Joyce Elaine Doolittle, born on July 16, 1966, in Aiken, SC, passed away on November 29, 2025. Joyce dedicated over 28 years of her career to the Aiken County Detention Center, where she made a lasting impact through her hard work and commitment.

Joyce was a warm and loving individual who cherished her family deeply. She was married...

Steven Lupton

Steven Lupton

Nov 29, 2025

Orrie Steven Lupton, 71, passed away peacefully at home on November 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

A native of New Bern, North Carolina, Steven was born to the late Woodrow Muriel and Ethel Lee Edwards Lupton. He was raised with a strong work ethic instilled in him by his grandmother, working alongside his siblings on tobacco farms during his...

Richard Van Bebber

Richard Van Bebber

Nov 27, 2025

In loving memory of Richard Don Van Bebber of Aiken, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the age of 88 years. He was a devoted husband of Sharon Van Bebber, loving father of Richard, Vanicia, Deana and grandfather to his four grandchildren.

Richard was born on March 2, 1937, in Oklahoma. He spent the majority of his life...

Donald Michael Hodgkins

Donald Michael Hodgkins

Nov 27, 2025

Donald Michael Hodgkins, 67, passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Affectionately known as Don or “Big Don”. Born in Wellsville, NY, Don was the cherished only child of Donald Victor and Crystle Reinard Hodgkins. A hardworking man, he spent more than 20 years proudly owning and operating his trucking company before retiring after 15 years of dedicated service as Facilities Director...

Robert G. English

Robert G. English

Nov 27, 2025

Robert G. English (Bob), age 92, of Aiken, South Carolina, formerly of Elloree, South Carolina, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at his home. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Grace McCallister English Polatty and John Waymon English. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Juanita Malone English, daughter, Darlene Patti...

Howard Jacob Brounce

Howard Jacob Brounce

Nov 26, 2025

On November 26th at 10:28 PM, Howard Jacob Brounce of Uniontown, PA and Aiken, SC peacefully passed away. He was surrounded by loved ones at his home at the Trinity on Laurens retirement community in Aiken, South Carolina. Howard, or Howie/Howdy as his friends and family affectionately called him, was born in Monongahela, PA on January 24th of 1932 to...

Cynthia Kay Padgett

Cynthia Kay Padgett

Nov 25, 2025

CYNTHIA KAY PADGETT, 72, widow of Carl Thomas “Tommy” Padgett, passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, November 25, 2025 in her home.

A lifelong resident of Aiken, Cynthia was a daughter of the late Raymond, Sr., and Jessie Heath Marks. She dedicated her career to education, serving as a librarian at Millbrook Elementary School within Aiken County Public Schools until her retirement. Her...

Charles Earl Simons III

Charles Earl Simons III

Nov 24, 2025

The Honorable Charles (Chuck) E. Simons, III, 83, of Aiken, South Carolina, passed away in his sleep in the early hours of Monday, November 24, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 3 pm on Sunday, November 30, 2025 at St. John’s Methodist Church in Aiken with a reception in Ward Hall following the service.

The oldest son of The...

Merit James Henderson

Merit James Henderson

Nov 23, 2025

Merit James Henderson, 36, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Merit was born in San Diego, CA, son of David and Susan Davis Faulkner, Aiken, and David Henderson, Fort Worth, TX. He spent his formative years in the Tri Cities of Washington.

Merit was a gifted artist. As an adult he adopted building supplies and materials as his medium. He passionately looked...

Jo Ann Angel Whittington

Jo Ann Angel Whittington

Nov 23, 2025

Mrs. Jo Ann Angel Whittington, 87, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Jo Ann was born in South Charleston, WV and was the daughter of the late Gratton George and Aubrey Jane Angel.

She was a 1955 graduate of South Charleston High School and lived in South Charleston and Scott Depot, WV before moving to Aiken, SC to be closer to family....

Paula Kay Zavorka

Paula Kay Zavorka

Nov 19, 2025

PAULA KAY ZAVORKA, 56, beloved wife of Charles E. “Chuck” Zavorka, Jr., passed away Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

A native of Laramie, WY, Paula was a daughter of Terrance “Joe” and Carol Carlson Bromley. She volunteered and also pursued her education to become a dental assistant while stationed with her husband at Fort Irwin, CA. She worked for the United States...

Richard Albert Mueller

Richard Albert Mueller

Nov 18, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Richard Albert Mueller, 88, beloved husband of Mary Catherine Mueller, left this world peacefully on November 18, 2025.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, on October 16, 1937, Richard's life was characterized by service, love, and a deep commitment to his family and community.

A proud veteran, Richard served honorably in the Air Force, dedicating eight years to active duty and...

Margaret Smedes Rose

Margaret Smedes Rose

Nov 16, 2025

AIKEN, SC - Margaret Smedes Rose, 71, passed away on November 16, 2025.

A native of Greenville, SC, Margaret was a daughter of the late Harvey McKoy Rose and Lydia Leitner Rose and grew up with her two sisters. They rode horses, fished, and played in the neighborhood until the streetlights came on, creating a close-knit bond.

Margaret’s love of horses resulted in...

Loretta Marie Beckner (nee Miller)

Loretta Marie Beckner (nee Miller)

Nov 16, 2025

Loretta Marie Beckner (nee Miller)

Beloved wife, loving mother, grandmother and dear friend passed away in Aiken after an extended battle with pancreatic cancer. Loretta was born in Hays, Kansas, January 19, 1949. She was the second of 7 children born to Frank and Elizabeth (Haffner) Miller.

Growing up on a wheat farm in the high plains of western Kansas, she was...

Roger David Ritch, Sr.

Roger David Ritch, Sr.

Nov 16, 2025

ROGER DAVID RITCH SR., 81, of Aiken, South Carolina, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Sunday, November 16th, 2025.

Born to the late Robert and Mildred Ritch in Indian Trail, North Carolina, Roger was a dedicated Army veteran, having served honorably during the tours in Korea and Vietnam. He demonstrated a strong work ethic throughout his life, retiring...

Julianne McGraw Adams

Julianne McGraw Adams

Nov 15, 2025

Julianne McGraw Adams, 83, passed away Saturday, Nov 15, 2025, in her home.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

SHELLHOUSE-RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 715 E. PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC 29801

Penny Lynn Bliss

Penny Lynn Bliss

Nov 15, 2025

Penny Spaulding Bliss, 73, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Aiken, South Carolina.

Born in Burlington, Vermont, to Robert and Grace (Yandow) Spaulding, Penny spent more than 30 years working in various secretarial positions, where her dedication and friendly nature touched many lives.

On September 11, 1971, Penny married the love of her life, David J. Bliss, and together they...

Dr. Gary Leazer

Dr. Gary Leazer

Nov 15, 2025

Gary Herbert Leazer, age 80, beloved husband of the late Ruth Leazer, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Aiken Memory Care.

Born in Keokuk, Iowa, Gary was the son of the late Herbert and Delphia Rube Leazer. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the Navy during the Vietnam War.

Gary pursued his education with great dedication,...