Upstate Cremation Services Obituaries

About Upstate Cremation Services

Located at 746 Templeton Road, Laurens, SC, 29360, Upstate Cremation Services is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that provides exceptional care and support to families during their most difficult times. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on personalized service, Upstate Cremation Services has established itself as a leader in the funeral industry.

A History of Compassionate Care

Upstate Cremation Services has a rich history of providing dignified and respectful funeral services to the community. Their team of experienced professionals has years of combined experience in the funeral industry, and they are dedicated to ensuring that every family receives the highest level of care and compassion. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorializations, Upstate Cremation Services offers a range of options to meet the unique needs of each family.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Kathy Ann Farmer - June 08, 1958 - May 10, 2024

Departed: 05/10/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Kathy Ann Farmer.

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Jeffrey Mark Lashley - March 10, 1956 - May 07, 2024

Departed: 05/07/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jeffrey Mark Lashley.

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Melina Bertolo Parisi - December 27, 1935 - April 23, 2024

Departed: 04/23/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Melina Bertolo Parisi.

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Richard Michael Moore - April 02, 1960 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Richard Michael Moore.

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Linda Joan Simpson - September 08, 1940 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Linda Joan Simpson.

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Phillip Pounds - September 26, 1963 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: Phillip Allen Pounds, age 60, passed away on April 11, 2024. He was born to Jane and George Pounds in Spartanburg, South Carolina on September 26th, 1963. He is survived by his father George, daughters Lauren, Kristen, Megan, and Jessie Pounds, his granddaughter Avery Klemons, his brother Steve Pounds, and sister-in-law Karen Pounds. Phillip's mother, having passed before him, surely welcomed him with open arms.

Phillip took great pride in being a father. He was a calm and steady source of support for his girls, whether it was cheering from the sidelines of their childhood soccer games, tinkering under the hood of a car, or proudly recounting their adult accomplishments to anyone who would lend an ear.

Phillip's gentle spirit and affection for animals and the outdoors were apparent to all who crossed his path. He was always ready to offer a kind word and a gentle touch to any creature in need, and was often found sneaking the outdoor cats into the house or cuddling his beloved dog Bella. He found great joy in camping trips with his family, where countless memories were made around crackling campfires and tubing down rivers.

As we say goodbye to Phillip, let us remember the legacy of kindness and love that he leaves behind. His spirit will live on in the laughter of his family, the memories shared around the campfire, and the lessons learned from a father who always gave his best for his daughters.

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Kelley Morrow Heman - January 01, 1960 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Kelley Morrow Heman.

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Donna Chantelle Marckley - February 15, 1969 - April 09, 2024

Departed: 04/09/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Donna Chantelle Marckley.

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Amanda "Mandy" Kay Power - June 10, 1987 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: Amanda “Mandy” Kay Power Laurens

Amanda “Mandy” Kay Power, 36, of Laurens, fiancé of Nate Henderson, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024 at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital. Born in Greenwood, she was the daughter of the late Gloria Ann Butler.  Mandy worked as a personal care assistant for Krystal Henderson

In addition to her fiancé, she is survived by children: Carissa Butler, Ta’Liyah Ballard, Brendin Henderson, and TJ Ballard (step son); brother, Paul Leopard (Darin Williamson) of Charlotte; sister Tanya Meza (Luis) of Myrtle Beach; best friends, Angel Hernandez and Samantha Benton (Dustin); nine nieces and nephews; many friends; and a bearded dragon, Bandit.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the Laurens County Park.

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Ellen Ann Hagman - November 04, 1960 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Ellen Ann Hagman.

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Donna Susan Cummings - March 15, 1957 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Donna Susan Cummings.

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Danny Thomas Lipford - October 11, 1958 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Danny Thomas Lipford.

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Leon Bradley Minor - November 16, 1940 - March 17, 2024

Departed: 03/17/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Leon Bradley Minor.

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William Johnston Bobo - August 13, 1956 - February 03, 2024

Departed: 02/03/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: William Johnston Bobo, age 67, of Clinton, passed away on February 3, 2024, at his residence.

There are no services planned at this time.

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Alanna B Summers - January 05, 1947 - January 22, 2024

Departed: 01/22/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Alanna B Summers.

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John Robert Ritter - November 19, 1938 - January 15, 2024

Departed: 01/15/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: CLINTON, SC

John Robert (Bob) Ritter was born on November 19, 1938 in Washington, DC. to John A. & Catherine S. Sutton. He married Sarah Orr on March 19, 1960.   He was the last member of his family.  Bob is preceded in death by his parents and brother.  He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 64 years.  He died on January 15, 2024 peacefully in his sleep at his home in Clinton, SC.

Bob graduated from Marist College High School in Atlanta, GA and from Georgia Institute of Technology.  After working in the textile industry for a few years, he obtained a degree in accounting from Georgia State University and became a certified public accountant opening his own practice in 1973.  His wife joined the practice in 1980 and they practiced in Greenville, SC for 25+ years.

He was an active member of the Jaycees, Kiwanis & Sertoma clubs serving in several positions as well as the Georgia Tech Alumni Club where he served as President and then Treasurer for more years than can be remembered.  He served 7 years in the Army reserves and was a member of Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Greenville.

He was an avid reader, sports fan, especially of Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, loved the beach and his pets.

There will be memorial service in the Chapel of Clinton Presbyterian Homes later.  If you would like to make a contribution in Bob’s memory do so with your local Humane Society or to a charity of your choice.

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John Barger Newton - April 11, 1959 - January 13, 2024

Departed: 01/13/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for John Barger Newton.

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Lemuel Rudolph Penland, Jr. - October 20, 1955 - January 10, 2024

Departed: 01/10/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Lemuel Rudolph Penland, Jr..

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Jearl Wayne Hall - April 17, 1939 - January 07, 2024

Departed: 01/07/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jearl Wayne Hall.

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Wilton Junior Vaughn - August 29, 1957 - January 06, 2024

Departed: 01/06/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: Wilton Junior Vaughn, 66, of Gray court sc, passed away Saturday January 6th in his home.

Wilton, also known as “whit” or “whoop” was an amazing man, he loved his family more than anything in the world. He had his days but just like everyone else he still pushed through them. He was definitely a one of a kind man. He was a carpenter almost his entire life and loved every bit of what he done! He had so many friends and family that love him unconditionally and always will.

Wilton is pre deceased by his father Wilton R Vaughn & his mother Hazel Vaughn.

In addition to his parents, he leaves behind his children (Kimberly Vaughn & Jason Vaughn ) along with his brother Milton Vaughn & sister in law Kristi Vaughn and their 3 children, and 3 grandchildren.

He will always be remembered for his stubbornness and hard head but also remembered for how much he cared for his family. family and friends please contact Milton Vaughn (brother) for information regarding the celebration of Wilton’s long,tough, beautiful life!

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Ben Lee Bailey - July 04, 1931 - January 06, 2024

Departed: 01/06/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Ben Lee Bailey.

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Wilton Reed Vaughn - August 29, 1957 - January 06, 2024

Departed: 01/06/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Wilton Reed Vaughn.

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Deborah Lynn Watson - December 09, 1952 - January 04, 2024

Departed: 01/04/2024 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Deborah Lynn Watson.

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Martha Foster Watts - November 05, 1926 - December 29, 2023

Departed: 12/29/2023 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: Martha Naomi Foster Watts November 5, 1926 - December 29, 2023

Martha Foster Watts, age 97, widow of Richard D. Watts passed away Friday, December 29, 2023 at The Langston Home in Clinton, South Carolina.

Martha was born in Gastonia, North Carolina and was the daughter of the late Samuel Columbus and Bessie Mae Primm Foster.

Martha, otherwise known as Nanny by her children, grandchildren, and great grands, lived a long wonderful life full of sass, dancing, and bingo. She worked in the school cafeteria while her children were young and then became a waitress, working until her early 80s because she loved seeing her regular customers.

Throughout her adult life, Martha and Richard (“Papa”) were active members of the Shriners and enjoyed raising money for the Children’s Hospital. They spent years going to various Shriners’ events throughout the state. Nanny would often reference her love for tap dancing and how much she and Papa would dance the nights away. Nanny never let anyone leave her house hungry and would insist all guests eat...even if not hungry because how could anyone not want food? She was known for her banana pudding, cornbread, sausage biscuits, egg salad and sweet tea. Regardless of the time of the year, Nanny always had ice cream in the freezer and would often save the morning coffee to make her special coffee ice cream for her grandchildren. Like we said, Nanny would not let you leave her home without eating something!

Nanny and Papa never missed calling any of their children, grands, or great grands to sing Happy Birthday and Nanny continued the tradition with passion and a smile in her voice since Papa’s passing in 2014. Oh, how we will ALL miss those special calls and songs.

So many years of love bring a wealth of memories that can never be condensed to one white page in a newspaper. The smell of freshly folded laundry during college visits, the backyard pool parties, the bingo games, and her love for baseball will all be forever etched in our hearts.

Nanny is survived by her five children: Dickie Watts (Deborah), Phyllis Hunter (Mack), Susan Fersner, Lou Watts, and Dale Watts; her seven grandchildren: Amber, Chaucer, Cole, Whitney, Tyler, Jarrod, and Steven, and her ten great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, Martha is predeceased by her brothers, Harvey Foster, Harry Foster, Paul Foster, Hoyle Foster, Lloyd Foster, Charlie Foster, and Richard Foster, as well as her two sisters, Dorothy Foster Trammell and Laura Burns.

Per Nanny’s request, there will be a private family Celebration of Life at a future date which will likely center around bingo and food.

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Dennis Ray Leopard - November 20, 1962 - December 19, 2023

Departed: 12/19/2023 (Laurens)

Obituary Preview: Dennis Ray Leopard November 20, 1962 - December 19, 2023

Dennis Ray Leopard, of 269 Warrior Creek Church Rd Gray Court, SC, passed away at Greenville Memorial Hospital on December 19, 2023, at the age of 61. Dennis, affectionately nicknamed "Ha-Ha" because of his smile and contagious laugh, was born on November 20, 1962 in Laurens, SC.

Dennis was a Jack-of-all-trades. He was a former employee of Vulcan Materials, Laurens County Landfill, Douglas Roofing, and was always there to lend a helping hand to family and friends.

He had a heart of gold beneath his tough exterior. He was a loving son and best friend to his mother, Liddie Leopard Warren, of Gray Court. He would cook for her, clean for her, help with her shopping, take care of yard work, or even just sit with her and watch their favorite TV shows together.

He was the best brother and uncle to his sister and nieces, and will be greatly missed by them. He was the brother and uncle that would always lend a helping hand whenever needed, and the one they could depend on. He will be remembered for his hard work ethic, helpful hands, unfiltered honesty, and infectious laugh.

He was predeceased by his father, Toy Thomas Robert Leopard; his step-father, Donald Warren; his brothers, Glen Ray Leopard and Marty Leopard; his maternal grandparents, Thomas "Tommy" Brewington and Levonia Harrison Brewington; his paternal grandparents, Pierce Leopard and Fannie Grubbs Leopard; and his niece, Sonya Bolick.

In addition to his mother, he leaves behind his sister, Debra DeShields (Jeffrey); his brother, Randy Leopard; his nieces, Ashley DeShields Taylor and Jennifer Fowler (Trey); his great-nieces, LeeAnn Bolick, Kelsey Holmes, and MacKenzie Holmes; and his great-great niece, Loddie Josephine "Jo-Jo" Pompa.

In celebration of his life, visitation for family and friends will be held on December 30, 2023 from 1:00pm-5:00pm, at the home of Debra and Jeff DeShields 8154 Highway 92 Enoree, SC.

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Personalized Funeral Services

At Upstate Cremation Services, they understand that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individual's personality, interests, and accomplishments. That's why they offer personalized funeral services that can be tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of each family. From traditional funerals with viewing and visitation to cremations with memorial services, Upstate Cremation Services provides a range of options to ensure that every family can say goodbye in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

Cremation Options

Upstate Cremation Services offers a range of cremation options to meet the diverse needs of families. From direct cremation to cremation with memorial services, they provide families with the flexibility to choose the option that best suits their needs and budget. Their state-of-the-art crematory ensures that every cremation is performed with dignity and respect, and their team of professionals is dedicated to ensuring that every family receives the highest level of care and compassion.

Pre-Planning Services

Upstate Cremation Services understands that planning for the future can be overwhelming, which is why they offer pre-planning services to help families prepare for the unexpected. By pre-planning your funeral or cremation service, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, and your loved ones are spared from making difficult decisions during a time of grief. Their team of professionals will guide you through the pre-planning process, answering any questions you may have and providing you with peace of mind knowing that your arrangements are taken care of.

Supporting You Through Grief

Losing a loved one is never easy, and Upstate Cremation Services understands that the grieving process can be long and difficult. That's why they offer a range of support services to help families navigate their grief. From bereavement counseling to support groups, they provide families with the resources they need to heal and move forward. Their team of professionals is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, providing comfort, guidance, and compassion when you need it most.

Community Involvement

Upstate Cremation Services is committed to giving back to the community they serve. They participate in local events and charities, providing support to those in need. Their team of professionals is also involved in various community organizations, working to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them. By being an active member of the community, Upstate Cremation Services demonstrates their commitment to serving others with compassion, kindness, and respect.

Contact Us

If you're looking for a funeral home that provides exceptional care and compassion, look no further than Upstate Cremation Services. Located at 746 Templeton Road, Laurens, SC, 29360, they are dedicated to serving families with dignity and respect. Whether you're planning for the future or need immediate assistance, their team of professionals is here to support you every step of the way. Contact them today to learn more about their services and how they can help you celebrate the life of your loved one.

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 a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing important information to those who knew them. They help to notify people of the passing, share details about the funeral or memorial service, and offer a chance for loved ones to pay tribute and share memories.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. Funeral homes or obituary writers may also assist in crafting the obituary. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A standard obituary usually includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also mention any notable achievements, military service, or charitable work.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. Online obituaries may allow for longer tributes or more photos.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the person.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may have online submission forms or email addresses for submitting obituaries.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, many people choose to write their own obituaries in advance as a way to control how they're remembered and to spare their loved ones from having to do so during a difficult time.

What's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information like name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost varies depending on the publication or platform. Newspaper obituaries often charge by the word or line, while online platforms may offer free or paid options with varying levels of features.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, corrections or edits can be made within a short timeframe after initial publication. However, this may depend on the publication's policies and deadlines.

How long are obituaries kept online?

This varies depending on the platform or publication. Some online obituaries remain available indefinitely, while others may be archived after a certain period.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries can be a celebration of life, so feel free to include humorous stories or personal touches that capture the person's personality.

What if I want to keep the funeral private?

You can still publish an obituary without including funeral details. Instead, you might mention that services will be private or by invitation only.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers?

Yes! Many families request that donations be made to a specific charity or organization in memory of their loved one. This can be included in the obituary.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries that maintain historical records. Some websites specialize in archiving and searching old obituaries.

Can I republish an old obituary online?

If you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder, you can republish an old obituary online. Be sure to check copyright laws and regulations beforehand.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be overwhelming. Consider asking a friend or family member for assistance, or seek guidance from a funeral home or professional writer.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add meaning and personality to an obituary. Just ensure you have permission to use copyrighted material.

How do I announce an upcoming memorial service in an obituary?

You can include details about future memorial services or celebrations of life in the initial obituary. Alternatively, you can publish a separate notice closer to the event date.

What if I want to create a digital memorial for my loved one?

There are many online platforms that allow you to create digital memorials, share memories, and connect with others who knew your loved one.

Can I update an online obituary with new information?

This depends on the platform's policies. Some online obituaries allow updates or additions over time, while others may not permit changes once published.

How do I handle condolences and guestbook messages?