Belk Funeral Home Obituaries

A Legacy of Compassion and Care: Belk Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Darlington, South Carolina, Belk Funeral Home has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for providing exceptional service, compassion, and care to those who have lost a loved one.

A Convenient Location for Families

Situated at 229 West Broad Street, Darlington, SC, 29532, Belk Funeral Home is easily accessible from all parts of the city. The funeral home's convenient location ensures that families can focus on celebrating the life of their loved one without worrying about logistics. Ample parking and wheelchair accessibility make it easy for everyone to attend services and pay their respects.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Michael Lynn Bazen - May 07, 1962 - April 21, 2022

Departed: 04/21/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: The children of the late Howard Vernon Bazen and Bernice Smith Bazen share the loss of their “Baby Brother,” Michael Lynn Bazen, 59, of Darlington.  Mr. Bazen fought courageous health battles to include multiple injuries and illnesses over time. Michael was a beloved Father, Brother and Brother-In-Law, Uncle, “Cousin” (“Cuz”) and Friend.  He was an avid Clemson Tiger Fan and loved all sports.  Many will remember Michael for his awesome personality and quick wit.  He always had a joke! Nothing pleased him more than a “Tiger Victory!”

Michael worked as a successful businessman and enjoyed assisting in his family’s restaurant business begun by his Father in the 1940’s.  His fun loving spirit and personality assisted him in building relationships with many friends over the years.

Surviving are his son, Christopher Bazen; his girlfriend of many years, Mary “Bunny” Kelly; sisters, Belinda (Nelson) Lee, Judy (Billy) Moore and Lisa (Buddy) Ralley; brothers, Bucky Bazen and Johnny Bazen; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Michael is preceded in death by a sister, Carlene Bryant.

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Robert "Bob" E. Stevens - May 09, 1938 - April 19, 2022

Departed: 04/19/2022 (Darlington)

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Angelie "Angel" Perry Lee - February 18, 1982 - April 15, 2022

Departed: 04/15/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Angelie "Angel" Perry Lee, age 40 died Friday, April 15, 2022. The family will hold a memorial service on a later date.

Please check back for a full obituary.

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Roberta Carter Jeffords - December 31, 1942 - April 12, 2022

Departed: 04/12/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Graveside services celebrating the life of Roberta Carter Jeffords will be held at Grove Hill Cemetery, Darlington, South Carolina on Friday, April 15 at 11:00 am directed by Belk Funeral Home.  Mrs. Jeffords was born in Lamar, South Carolina, December 31, 1942, and was the daughter of Willie James and Roberta Smoot Carter. She passed away after a short illness on April 12, 2022.

Mrs. Jeffords was a graduate of Columbia College. After college she taught school in Germany. This allowed her to travel through Europe and acquire furniture and fine items she cherished throughout her life as she made a fine home for her family.  She was a teacher in several South Carolina schools and was well known for her impeccable grammar and classroom management.  Before retirement she was a member of Alpha Delta Kappa and Delta Kappa Gamma educational sororities.

Mrs. Jeffords was a woman of strong faith and always turned to the Lord for her strength.  As a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Darlington, she served in various leadership positions and was a member of United Methodist Women.   Mrs. Jeffords was honored by being selected as Methodist Woman of the Year in 2021.  Much like her mother, she was an avid reader and a member of the Castalian Book Club.

Mrs. Jeffords had artistic talent and enjoyed painting using a variety of mediums, especially, oil and watercolor. These wonderful pieces of art are displayed throughout her home and the homes of her children.  She also had a flair for decorating and created a beautiful home. She hosted many gatherings with her extended family and always created beautiful tablescapes for all to enjoy.

Mostly, Mrs. Jeffords adored her family. She is survived by her husband, J. Scott Jeffords of the home; sons Jonathan Scott (Tara) of Florence, SC and James Carter (Elizabeth) of Columbia, SC.  Perhaps the favorite title she had was that of “Mimi” to her five cherished grandchildren:  Grayson Caroline, Lucas Carter, Jonathan Andrews (Drew), Elizabeth Bethea (Libby) and Katherine Scott (Kate).  She is also survived by a sister Anne Warr and a brother Ben Carter (Shari) and many nieces, nephews and close cousins.

The family will receive friends at the home, 119 Maryland Drive, Darlington, South Carolina on Thursday, April 14 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm.

Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, PO Box 16, Darlington, South Carolina, 29540.

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Jerome "Jerry" A. Bonnoitt, Sr. - May 08, 1939 - April 12, 2022

Departed: 04/12/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Jerome “Jerry” A. Bonnoitt, Sr., age 82 died Tuesday, April 12, 2022. A memorial service will be held 3:00 p.m. Friday, April 15th at Mechanicsville Baptist Church, directed by Belk Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the service in the new building.

Born on May 8, 1939, Jerry was the son of the late Frank Lee Bonnoitt and Myrtle Kay Kyzer Bonnoitt. He was a graduate of St. John’s High School, class of 1957. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard, and retired from Nucor Steel after 28 years. Jerry enjoyed gardening, fishing, coin collecting and raising goats. He will be remembered for his sense of humor and for his story telling. Jerry was a member of Coots and a member of Mechanicsville Baptist Church.

Surviving are his wife, Belinda Howle Bonnoitt; his children, Harriett Olivia Bonnoitt of Darlington, Jerome “Jerry” Bonnoitt, Jr. of Darlington, and Timothy W. (Teresa) Bonnoitt of Florida; Belinda’s children, Sherrie (Robert) Williams of Florence, Melinda (Paul) Morris of Lake Wateree, and Melissa (Vincent) Bertolino of Massachusetts; Jerry’s six grandchildren and Belinda’s seven grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren including a special great-granddaughter, Addison and a special great-grandson, Norwood; sister, Jenny Bonnoitt of New York; and his twin brother, John Mahlon (Marsha) Bonnoitt, Sr.

He was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children, Joy Bonnoitt; son, Frank Lee Bonnoitt; and a grandchild, Joy Bonnoitt.

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James Melvin Windham - January 29, 1939 - April 11, 2022

Departed: 04/11/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: James Melvin Windham, age 83 died Monday, April 11, 2022. A graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 14th at Windhamtown Cemetery in Lamar, SC, directed by Belk Funeral Home.Born on January 29, 1939, Melvin was the son of the late Sam Windham and Nellie Smith Windham. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard. He worked as a mechanic and a farmer, and was employed with Nytronics until his retirement. Melvin loved fishing, watching NASCAR, and watching old westerns. He was a member of Newman Swamp Southern Methodist Church.Surviving are his wife, Daisy O’Neal Windham; children, Gene (Jennifer) Windham of Aiken, Angie (Carl) Jones of Pamplico, Pamela Mahaffey of Florence and Mike (Loretta) Windham of Lamar; 17 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren; and a brother, Sidney (Brenda) Windham.He was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Greer; and a son-in-law, Thomas Mahaffey.

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Barbara Jean Smith - July 22, 1946 - April 10, 2022

Departed: 04/10/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: It is with heavy, and solemn hearts the members of the Smith Family announce the passing of their mother and grandmother Barbara Boykin Smith, age 75 on April 10, 2022. Born on July 22, 1946 in Darlington, South Carolina, Barbara was the daughter to the late Whitaker and Janet Watford Boykin. Barbara enjoyed a childhood spent with her younger siblings Jerry, Larry, and Laura and she was a 1964 graduate of St John’s High School, in Darlington. At the age of 15, Barbara met the love of her life, Felix. They were married in 1966 and shared forty-seven years together.

Over her lifetime she created her proudest accomplishments, two daughters and later three grandsons. Barbara was a loving, devoted wife and mother who always put her family before all else. She was an equally committed and driven employee, retiring from La-Z-Boy in Florence, SC with over 30 years of service. She was also the proud co-owner of Smith’s Exxon & Towing in Darlington, for over three decades. Later in life, Barbara relished in the joys of being a grandmother to her three grandsons Alex, Trystan and Fenix. She loved spoiling them and took pride in teaching them the importance of being a kind person, treating others with love and respect, and how to face adversity with a good attitude. She was known as an excellent cook, and always made sure there was extra just in case someone popped by at dinnertime. This happened often, and she loved when it did. Although she’s gone, Barbara’s legacy will live on for years to come. To her family, there was never an asking too big or a sacrifice too great. She demonstrated selflessness and love that was immeasurable in every sense of the word. Everyone who knew her knew that she loved with a full heart always, and would drop whatever she was doing to help anyone. The compassion she displayed never once came from a place of self-gain, but from the true, utmost kindness of her giving heart. To say she will be gravely missed by all who knew her would be an understatement, but luckily the love she shared in her life touched so many, and will not be soon forgotten. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Felix Edward Smith Jr. of Darlington.

She is survived by her daughters Cassandra (Patrick) Smith-Elliott of Florence, and Felicia Smith of Darlington; grandsons, Alexander Smith and Trystan Elliott of Florence, Fenix Austin of Darlington; brothers, Jerry (Lita) Boykin of Waycross, Georgia, Larry (Cheryl) Boykin of Darlington; sister, Laura (Tommy) Morris of Darlington; numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews, and her very special fur baby, Bella.

Visitation will be held at Belk Funeral Home, Darlington, SC; Wednesday, April 13th 6pm - 8pm. All other times at the home of her daughter and son-in-law Patrick and Cassandra Elliott, 4173 Rodanthe Circle, Florence, SC 29501. A private memorial will be held at a later date.

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Dacia Chanda Cameron - March 14, 1979 - April 09, 2022

Departed: 04/09/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Dacia Chanda Gainey Cameron, age 43 died Saturday, April 9, 2022.

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Jo Ann Hooten Page - May 28, 1941 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Jo Ann Hooten Page, age 80 died Thursday, April 7, 2022. The family will receive friends from 12:45-1:45 p.m. Saturday, April 9th at Belk Funeral Home, with a graveside service following at Darlington Memory Gardens at 2:00 p.m.

Born on May 28, 1941, Jo Ann was the daughter of the late Joe Sam Hooten and Thelma Bell Hooten. She was a homemaker and worked for Sunbrite for several years. She enjoyed being at home spending time with her family and cooking for them. She also enjoyed shopping and watching church on TV.

Surviving are her two daughters, Tammy (Jeffery) Boseman of Florence and Tracey Page of Timmonsville; four sons, Randy Page, Terry Page, both of Darlington, Jimmy Page and Scotty (Heather) Page, both of Timmonsville; grandchildren, Heather Forrest, Angela Page, Kandi Page, Hunter Page, Phillip Boseman, Jada Page, Summer Michelle Page, Joanna Page, Madison Page, Dylan Page, Steven Turner, Alec Johnson, Joshua Page; and many great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Paul Hooten, Billy Hooten, Jean Russ, Dorothy Cromer and Patricia Taylor; and a great-grandson, Cameron Forrest.

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Eva Lou Taylor O'Neal - February 15, 1930 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Eva Lou Taylor O’Neal, age 92, died Monday, April 4, 2022. A visitation will be held Thursday, April 7th from 1:45-2:45 p.m. at Belk Funeral Home with a graveside service following at Darlington Memory Gardens.

Born on February 15, 1930, Eva was the daughter of the late Rudolph Eugene “Doc” Taylor and Thelma Lee Taylor. She enjoyed visiting local nursing homes with her group. Eva was a good Christian woman who never missed a day at church and will be remembered for her love and kindness by all who knew her. She was a member of Pentecostal Holiness Church in Darlington.

Surviving are her son, Mitchell O’Neal; daughter, Sherry (Billy) Plowden; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Bug” O’Neal.

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Diane Anderson - June 10, 1948 - April 01, 2022

Departed: 04/01/2022 (Darlington)

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Susan Humphries Iseman - March 21, 1956 - March 31, 2022

Departed: 03/31/2022 (Darlington)

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Archie Steven Wright - March 01, 1954 - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Archie Steven Wright, age 68 died suddenly at his home on Monday, March 28, 2022 after a short illness. A memorial service will be held 4:00 p.m. Friday, April 1st in the Darlington Chapel at Belk Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 3-4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Born on March 1, 1954, Archie was the son of the late Julian Kenneth Wright and Virginia Watford Wright Lynch. He was a talented carpenter and took pride in building and remodeling homes. Archie was an avid golfer, mostly playing at the Governor's Run Golf Club in Lamar. He also loved to fish in the pond next to his house and spending time with his brother, Jakey.

Surviving are his two daughters, Stephanie (Johnford) Murray of Florence and Adrianne (Jeremy) Murphy of Columbia; grandchildren, Kailee (Trent) Wagner, Taylor Murphy, and Harrison Murphy; siblings, Jakey (Sandy) Wright, Miriam Talley (Robert), Vera Hancock, Linda Piscezek and Robin Lynch.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Austin Leon Wright, Theresa Ann Dorriety, and Edwin Carrol “Boweavil” Wright.

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Richard G Dority - November 02, 1933 - March 27, 2022

Departed: 03/27/2022 (Darlington)

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Juan Valencia - January 23, 1976 - March 26, 2022

Departed: 03/26/2022 (Darlington)

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Jean Grooms - November 27, 1933 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Jean Knotts Grooms, age 88, died Wednesday, March 23. 2022. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 26, 2022 in Lamar Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 on Friday at the Lamar Chapel of Belk Funeral Home.

Born in Darlington County on November 27, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Louie and Gladys Nichols Knotts. Mrs. Grooms worked as a private sitter in nursing homes. She attended Will of Faith Southern Methodist Church.

Surviving is her son, Garris Grooms, a daughter, Deborah G. Moore both of Lamar , five grandchildren: Shawn Sharpe, Dustin (Jennifer) Sharpe, Cammie Grooms, Chasity Cox, Fairlynn (David) Bruce, Harley Cox and Kade Sharpe, siblings, William “Rev. Kenny” (Margaret) Knotts of Sumter, Keith (Jeannie) Knotts of Florence, Randy (Cynde) Knotts of Hartsville, Judy K. (Mac) Atkinson of Bishopville. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon Grooms and sisters, Clarice McCoy and Vera Bell Memorials may be made to Will of Faith Southern Methodist Church, c/o Robbie Thomas, 1671 Hibiscus Rd, Timmonsville, SC 29161

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William "Bill" Alfred Gray, Jr. - January 01, 1941 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: William “Bill” Alfred Gray, Jr., age 81 died Thursday, March 24, 2022.  A graveside service will be held 3:00 PM Monday, March 28th at Shepard Memorial Park, 5045 Asheville Hwy, Hendersonville, NC 28791, directed by Belk Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 4-6 PM Sunday at the home of Ned and Betsy Dargan, 1306 S. Charleston Rd. Darlington, SC.

Born to William Alfred Gray, Sr. and Hilda Francesa Gray, Bill was the third baby born in Virginia on January 1, 1941. They moved to Hendersonville, NC in 1946. That same year the family home, located off US 64 in the Brightwater community, known as Rockhaven was purchased. Bill attended Immaculata Catholic School in Hendersonville through grade eight and later Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Georgia. The family spent winter months in Coral Gables, Florida. Bill graduated from Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC in 1963 with a BA degree and was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity.  He served on active duty in the US Army, stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky, achieving the highest company officer rank of Captain. He began his career in management with the REA Express Co., then with the SCM-Allied Paper Co. Bill spent many years in the field of management consulting working in several consulting firms based in New York, NY.

Bill is survived by his wife, Robbie Gray; and his sister, Nella Gray Barkley of Charleston, SC; Robbie’s children, Elizabeth (Robert) Chase of Mt. Pleasant, Ned (Betsy) Dargan of Darlington, and James (Mandy) Dargan of Darlington. He was predeceased by his daughter, Jane Gray Stilwell.

Bill and Robbie were married in 2001. They lived together in Rockhaven in Hendersonville, NC and North Myrtle Beach, SC. They were members of the Hendersonville Country Club and were also known to hold gala parties. Bill was sometimes referred to as “Mumbles” by many of his friends. He was kind to all and all the dogs in the neighborhood were fond of him.

The family wishes to thank the staff at McLeod Hospice House for their excellent loving care of Bill.

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John Barry Byrd - December 07, 1972 - March 21, 2022

Departed: 03/21/2022 (Darlington)

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Barbara Rogers Bryant - January 20, 1941 - March 20, 2022

Departed: 03/20/2022 (Darlington)

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Burney R. Drew - April 29, 1932 - March 15, 2022

Departed: 03/15/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Burney R. Drew, age 89, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at his home. A memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Wednesday, March 23rd at the family home, 1333 Ruth Dr. Darlington, SC 29532. The family is receiving friends at their home from now until the service.

Born on April 29, 1932, Burney was the son of Horace Alford Drew and Mary Elizabeth Johnson Drew. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force for 20 years, retiring in 1971. Burney then worked as a contractor for the log home industry. He traveled the United States, building homes in several parts of the country.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was former president of The Woodstone Hunting Club. He also enjoyed building and working on things around the house, feeding and watching deer, geese, ducks and wild turkeys; and helping his neighbors. Burney was one of many cooks who participated in the famous Indian Branch Chicken Bog for many years.  In everything he did, perfection was his goal. He was a Master Mason for over fifty years and received his Life Membership in St. David’s Lodge #72 in Darlington on November 1, 2009.  He attended Epworth United Methodist Church.

Surviving are his wife, Ruth Eagerton Drew; four children, Michael H. Drew of Marion, David B. (Cindy) Drew, Debbie R. (Rusty) Turbeville, and Stephen Drew, all of Darlington; grandchildren, David B. (Mallory) Drew, Jr., Daniel Drew, Lauren Drew, Austin (Meagan) Turbeville, Jennifer (Courtney) Stutts; and six great-grandchildren; brothers, Carl Drew of Fayetteville and Rudolph Drew of Florence.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Agape Hospice for their compassionate care.

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Charles Grandison Howard, Sr. - April 06, 1938 - March 15, 2022

Departed: 03/15/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Charles Grandison Howard Sr., known affectionately as “Big C” died at his residence Tuesday, March 15th after an illness. He was born April 6, 1938 in Darlington to the late Armstrong Jolly Howard II and the late Annie Louise Milling Howard. Charles was a lifelong Darlingtonian. He was a graduate of St John’s High School where he was an outstanding athlete.  He was selected to play for the Palmetto League Baseball team in 1955 where they won the championship. In 1956 he was selected to play in the All-State Football Game.  He graduated from Presbyterian College in 1960 as a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity.

Charles married the love of his life, Natalie Bettis Chase on November 30, 1963.  He went to work for his father in law, Maitland Chase, Jr. at Chase Oil Company.  He enjoyed the oil business and eventually, along with his two sons, purchased the company in 1993.  He was active in the industry and served on the Amoco Regional Jobber Advisory Board and the South Carolina Petroleum Marketer’s Board.  While on the Amoco Board, Charles was instrumental with helping Amoco join NASCAR in the early 1990s.

Charles grew up in Darlington Presbyterian Church but joined St. Matthew’s Church after marrying Bettis. Charles embraced being an Episcopalian and served proudly as Senior Warden of the Vestry twice and Chairman of the Annual Pancake Supper, among other roles. He was proud to serve on the Board at Darlington County Bank for many years and was instrumental in leading efforts to assist in the restoration of Trinity Episcopal Church in Society Hill. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 13 of Darlington SC.

Charles' passion was the outdoors and he was happiest hunting quail with his bird dogs, fishing in Black Creek, or spending time on his beloved Witherspoon Island, the family’s hunting property. In fact he once successfully shot three bucks at one time while on a deer drive on Witherspoon Island. Also, Charles was a member of Woodstone Hunting Club.  In later years he enjoyed hog hunting with Chase and his friends, to include his great friends from Maryland! Charles was a proud member of “The Darlington Dairy Bar Daily Think Tank” where he enjoyed educating all of his friends.

Charles' proudest accomplishments were his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his three children: Charles Grandison Howard, Jr (Patty), Maitland Chase Howard and Natalie Bettis Howard.  His three grandchildren who affectionately called him PaPa: Charles Grandison Howard III (Emily), Simons Lucas Howard, and Lucas Milling Martin; one brother Whitfield Milling Howard; two brothers in law, Maitland Soutter Chase III (Betty Anne) and John Ravenel Chase, one sister in law Nancy Chase Burnside and multiple nieces and nephews who he loved.

Charles was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Natalie Bettis Chase Howard; his brother, Armstrong Jolly Howard III and his brother in law, Simons Lucas Chase.

The family would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank JJ and Gloria Jacobs and Gloria Eady for their loving care provided to Charles the last few weeks and months. Visitation will be held at Belk Funeral Home on Thursday, March 17, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at St. Matthews Church in Darlington on Friday March 18, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. followed by interment at Mount Hope Cemetery

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Karl Dontaine Ethridge - January 05, 1948 - March 12, 2022

Departed: 03/12/2022 (Darlington)

Obituary Preview: Karl Dontaine Ethridge, age 74, of Mechanicsville, passed away Saturday, March 12, 2022. He was born in Charleston on January 5, 1948, son of the late Eddie and Dorothy June Ethridge. Karl served his country in the United States Navy. He then went to work as a draftsman in the construction industry, and owned his own business towards the end of his career. He was a talented woodworker and enjoyed building furniture. Mr. Ethridge was also a great artist. Many of his paintings grace the walls of his home.

Karl is survived by his wife, Desiree Litchfield Ethridge, a daughter, Angelique (Greg) O’Neal of Hartsville, two grandchildren: Mariah (Cole) King and Logan Freeman and his siblings: Hans Ethridge, Willhelmina Metts, Fritz (Barbara) Ethridge, Tillmon (Charlotte) Ethridge, William "Grover" Ethridge, and Sarah Ethridge.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, March 19th at Providence Baptist Church, 2069 N. Hwy 17-A Moncks Corner, SC 29461.

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C.D. Strickland - July 20, 1940 - March 10, 2022

Departed: 03/10/2022 (Darlington)

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Eva Mae Asaro - July 30, 1955 - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Darlington)

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Lawrence H. Melton, Sr. - June 18, 1946 - March 09, 2022

Departed: 03/09/2022 (Darlington)

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A Team of Dedicated Professionals

The team at Belk Funeral Home is comprised of experienced and compassionate professionals who understand the importance of personalized service. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll be greeted with kindness, empathy, and understanding. Their staff takes the time to listen to your needs, answer your questions, and guide you through the funeral planning process with sensitivity and care.

A Wide Range of Funeral Services

Belk Funeral Home offers a comprehensive range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, their experienced team will work with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's memory. They also provide assistance with obituaries, death certificates, and other necessary arrangements.

Personalized Funeral Planning

At Belk Funeral Home, they believe that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individual's personality, interests, and accomplishments. Their funeral planners will work closely with you to create a customized funeral service that incorporates meaningful elements, such as music, flowers, and personal mementos. They also offer online obituaries and guestbooks, allowing friends and family to share condolences and memories from anywhere in the world.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Belk Funeral Home's facilities are designed to provide a comforting and peaceful atmosphere for families and friends to gather. Their spacious chapel can accommodate large crowds, while their intimate visitation rooms offer a cozy setting for smaller gatherings. The funeral home's state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment ensures that music, videos, and slideshows are presented with clarity and precision.

Community Involvement and Support

Belk Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Darlington community and is committed to giving back to those they serve. They participate in local events, support charitable organizations, and provide educational resources on grief support and bereavement. Their staff is also available to offer guidance and support during difficult times, ensuring that families receive the care they need long after the funeral service has ended.

A Tradition of Excellence

For generations, Belk Funeral Home has been a trusted name in Darlington's funeral industry. Their commitment to excellence has earned them a reputation for providing exceptional service, compassion, and care. By choosing Belk Funeral Home, families can rest assured that their loved one will be treated with dignity and respect, and that they will receive the support they need during a difficult time.

If you're facing the loss of a loved one or planning ahead for your own funeral arrangements, consider reaching out to Belk Funeral Home. Their dedicated team is ready to provide guidance, support, and compassion every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a permanent record of the person's life and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend writes the obituary, but it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer. The writer should have personal knowledge of the deceased and be able to capture their personality and spirit.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their accomplishments, awards, and charitable work.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the notice and make it more meaningful to readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

Contact the newspaper or online platform directly to learn about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication, word count, and additional features such as photos or special layouts. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary as part of their estate planning or as a way to reflect on their life. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your story is told in your own words.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the most basic information. An obituary is a more detailed and personalized account of the person's life.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the person's personality and spirit. Including humorous stories or anecdotes can help celebrate their life and make the notice more engaging.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

When dealing with sensitive topics such as cause of death or complicated relationships, it's essential to approach the subject with tact and respect. Consider consulting with family members or a professional writer for guidance.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can add depth and personality to the obituary. Just be sure to obtain any necessary permissions or credits.

What if I need to make corrections or changes to an already published obituary?

Contact the publication or online platform directly to request corrections or changes. They will guide you through their process for making updates.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publication varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online platforms often publish immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or weeks.

Can I share an obituary on social media?

Yes! Many online platforms allow you to share the obituary on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. This can help spread the news quickly and reach a wider audience.

What if I want to keep the obituary private or limited to certain individuals?

Sometimes families prefer to keep the obituary private or share it only with close friends and family. Online platforms may offer options for private or restricted access.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased.

How do I find old obituaries from past decades?

You can search online archives, visit local libraries or genealogical societies, or contact the newspaper directly to access archived obituaries. Some websites also specialize in aggregating historical obituaries.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for many years?

If you're writing an obituary for someone who passed away many years ago, focus on celebrating their life and legacy rather than announcing their passing. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

If you're finding it difficult to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress, consider seeking support from a friend, family member, or professional writer. They can help guide you through the process and create a fitting tribute.

Can I use an online template or generator to write an obituary?

Yes! There are many online resources available that provide templates and guides for writing an obituary. These can be helpful starting points, but be sure to personalize the content to reflect the individual's unique life and spirit.

How do I ensure that an online obituary remains accessible over time?

Maintain a copy of the obituary offline, such as in a printed document or digital file. You can also consider creating a permanent online memorial through a dedicated website or platform.

What if I need additional support or guidance during this difficult time?

DON'T hesitate to reach out to friends, family members, funeral homes, or professional counselors for emotional support and guidance. They can help you navigate this challenging time and create a meaningful tribute to your loved one.