Obituaries April 24, 2024
Barbara Thomas Blackwell
CHERAW – Mrs. Barbara Thomas Blackwell, age 62, entered into rest on Saturday, April 13, 2024. A celebration of life was held at 6:00 PM Thursday, April 18, 2024 from the chapel of Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home. The family greeted friends from 5:00 to 6:00 PM on Thursday prior to the service at the funeral home.
Mrs. Blackwell was born August 4, 1961 in Bennettsville, SC the daughter of the late Henry Thomas and Judy Jernigan. Barbara was proud to be a R.N. and she was devoted to caring for others. Mrs. Blackwell was a selfless person who put the needs of others before her own. She enjoyed camping and being outdoors. Barbara loved dogs, especially her beloved pets, “Princess”, “Precious”, “Chloe”, and “Sadie”. Above all else, Mrs. Blackwell adored her family.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Blackwell was also preceded in death by her brother, Steven Rufus Thomas; and niece, Brittani Thomas.
Survivors include her loving companion of 10 years, David Baker of the home and his 4 children; daughters, Rachel (Preston) Blackwell of Cheraw, SC and her father, James Blackwell of Cheraw, SC, Jessica Steading of Greenville, SC; sister, Darlene (Mark) Goebel of Manville, TX; great-aunts, Thedashia Quick of Cheraw, SC, Margie Pruitt of Cheraw, SC; best friend, Debra Lomax of Wadesboro, NC; and four nephews.
Memorials may be made to the American Nurses Association, givetonursing.networkforgood.com.
Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Blackwell family.
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Freda Elaine (Caulder) Miller
Freda Elaine (Caulder) Miller peacefully departed this life on April 12, 2024, after a brief illness. Throughout her journey, Freda remained steadfast in her love for travel and her unbridled enthusiasm for discovering new and unique experiences. Her unwavering zest for life was a guiding light that illuminated her path until the very end.
Born at home in the town of Chesterfield, South Carolina on March 2, 1947, Freda’s journey through life was a testament to her love for exploration and discovery. The eldest child to the late Hadley and Lillian Caulder, Freda’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge shone brightly from her earliest days. A 1965 graduate of Chesterfield High School, she excelled academically, becoming a standout figure at her school as head cheerleader, active member of numerous clubs, and earning the distinguished title of “Most Likely to Succeed” during her senior year.
Following her high school graduation, Freda enrolled at East Carolina College in Greenville, NC, where fate introduced her to Charles Miller. Their love story blossomed, leading to marriage and a joint adventure in the United States Air Force (USAF). Together, they embarked on a journey that took them to various stations, including Germany, San Antonio, TX, the Azores in Portugal, and Portsmouth, NH. Sadly, Charles passed away in 1984, leaving behind cherished memories of their time together.
During her time at Lajes Field, the USAF’s refueling point in the Azores, Freda embarked on a remarkable career in the civil service that spanned three decades. Starting as a GS3 Clerk Typist, her journey in civil service led her to various locations, both near and far, offering her unique opportunities to immerse herself in diverse regions and cultures around the world. Freda’s dedication to her career saw her attain her bachelor’s degree at the University of New Hampshire. Notably, she was honored with the Air Force Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) award for her outstanding contributions to affirmative employment programs while stationed at Pease Air Force Base (AFB). Later, Freda transitioned to the Department of Defense Tiger Team, where she played a pivotal role in resolving issues within Department of Defense (DoD) systems across the nation, as well as participating in the accounting recovery actions at Homestead AFB in Homestead, FL, following Hurricane Andrew in 1992.
Throughout her career, Freda’s assignments led her to various locations, including Langley AFB in Hampton, VA; Pope Field at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, NC; Lowry AFB in Denver, CO; Charleston AFB in Charleston, SC; and the National Capitol Region in Washington, DC. During her tenure in Charleston, Freda successfully completed her master’s degree at the University of Phoenix. By the time of her retirement in 2001, she had achieved the esteemed position of GS14 Accountant.
An avid adventurer, Freda’s insatiable curiosity and open-mindedness led her to embrace the path less traveled, always seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth. She observed the good in others as she sought to spread love and joy to all that met her.
Beyond her love for travel, Freda’s zest for life extended to every aspect of her being. She was a devoted companion, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering optimism touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was ever ready for any occasion, whether it was a family gathering, hosting guests, or lending a hand to those in need. Her repertoire of talents was vast, encompassing sewing, crafting handmade greeting cards, cooking, and beyond. She selflessly utilized her talents to spread kindness and joy to those around her.
Freda remained a steadfast member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, actively participating in the Women’s Group and dedicating her time as a volunteer Office Manager. Additionally, she committed herself to the South Carolina Guardian ad Litem program, where she initially served as a volunteer before transitioning to employment. In this role, Freda tirelessly advocated for the welfare and best interests of abused and neglected children in her community.
Freda was preceded in death by her husband Charles Miller and her parents Hadley and Lillian Caulder.
Freda is survived by her devoted friend, Claire Godbout, as well as her daughter, Charlotte Emery (Randy), of Chesterfield, South Carolina, and her son, Chuck Miller (Carol), of Rapid City, South Dakota.
She is also survived by her sisters, Nancy Cauthen (Alvin) of Rockingham, North Carolina; Darlene Wright (Tommy) and Trudy Hancock (Otto) both of Chesterfield, South Carolina; and her brothers, Tommy Caulder and Timmy Caulder (Diane) both of Chesterfield, South Carolina.
Freda is survived by (6) grandchildren – Clara, Ollie, Orey, Justin, Sam, and Lilly – along with countless nieces and nephews.
Freda was a kind person who appreciated all that life gave her. She lived a life full of wonderful experiences alongside a loving family and many good friends. She truly embodied the adage of a life well lived. May she rest in peace, knowing that her life was truly a gift to us.
A viewing was held on Wednesday, April 17th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home | 318 E Main Street, Chesterfield, SC 29709. The funeral service was held the following day (Thursday, April 18th) at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church | 602 Market Street, Cheraw SC 29520
In lieu of flowers, friends who wish to honor Freda’s memory are welcome to make donations to the St. Peter’s Catholic Church Maintenance Fund and/or Prayer Garden. Your contributions will help sustain the church and its sacred spaces, continuing Freda’s legacy of devotion and community support.
Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Miller family.
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Judy Walters
HARTSVILLE – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Judy Perdue Walters, who peacefully departed from this world on April 13, 2024. Born on April 23, 1959, in Hartsville, South Carolina, Judy was cherished by her loving family and friends as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.
Throughout her life, Judy found immense joy in the simple pleasures that surrounded her. An adoring grandmother, she shared a special bond with her grandchildren, frequently attending Hannah’s dance competitions and going shopping with her. Her love for music, particularly 70’s classics, brought brightness to her days. A dedicated member of Cedar Creek Baptist Church in Hartsville, SC, Judy found solace in her faith and found comfort in spending time with her church community.
Judy’s warm and welcoming spirit made her a beloved figure wherever she went, never failing to brighten the lives of those around her. Her passion for entertainment and her love for singing allowed her to spread joy to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She had a penchant for 70’s music, and the classic TV show “Walker, Texas Ranger” held a special place in her heart.
As a social butterfly, Judy cherished her time spent with family and friends, always eager to make new connections and maintain relationships with those she held dear. Her vibrant personality and genuine kindness ensured that she never met a stranger, always opening her heart to others.
Judy spent her professional years working as a cashier in the retail industry, most recently at Hamrick’s, where her friendly demeanor and dedication to her work left a lasting impact on those she encountered.
Judy is survived by her son Christopher Walters, her daughter Kimberly (William) Gardner, her brother Dale Perdue, her granddaughter Hannah Gardner, and her grandson Jacob Gardner.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow and Evelyn Pierce Perdue
A Graveside Service was held at Cedar Creek Baptist Church Cemetery on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 4:00 pm to honor Judy’s memory.
Family and friends were invited to pay their respects during the Visitation at Kiser Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, from 5:00 until 7:00 pm.
In this time of grief, let us come together to celebrate the life of Judy Perdue Walters, a cherished soul who brought light and love into the lives of those around her. May her kindness and warmth continue to shine brightly in our hearts forevermore.
Kiser Funeral Home has been entrusted to serve the Walters family in their time of grief.
Online condolences may be made at www.kiserfuneralhome.com.
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Beverly ‘Sue’ Demby Whitaker
PAGELAND – With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Sue Demby Whitaker on February 21st, 2024. Sue’s life was a profound testament to the values of hard work, faith, dedication, and the unconditional love she showered on her family, including her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Born in Jefferson, South Carolina she was dear to all who knew her. She was not only marked by her dedication to making a difference in the world around her but also by the warmth and love she extended to her family at every opportunity.
Sue’s formative years on a farm ingrained in her a deep understanding of life’s labors and joys. This early experience shaped her into a resilient, compassionate, and loving matriarch. Sue was always ready to take on challenges and lend a hand in her community and within her family, nurturing bonds that span generations. Her academic and professional journey was distinguished, reflecting her natural talent for leadership and generosity in sharing knowledge, qualities that she also brought into her personal life, guiding her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with wisdom and love.
Her role as a mentor extended beyond her professional life, touching her family deeply. She was often credited by her grandchildren for instilling in them values of hard work and the importance of education, underscoring her influence that transcends generations. Sue’s devotion to her faith and church community was mirrored in her commitment to her family, teaching them the importance of service, faith, and compassion.
Even in retirement, Sue’s commitment to service and family did not wane. She remained a pillar of strength, love, and guidance, always there to support her family, whether through driving them to appointments, sharing invaluable life lessons, or simply being present in the most meaningful ways. Her actions were a living example of kindness, generosity, and unconditional love.
Most importantly, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
Preceded in death by her parents, Ernest Richard Demby and Vera Mae Kirkley Demby, and her brothers John Carroll Demby, Tommy Gilbert Demby, Baby Boy Demby, and nephew Corey Bobco.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jerry David Whitaker; sons Marcus Little of Zebulon, NC, Ash Little of Columbia, SC, and David Whitaker (Allyson) of Pageland, SC; her cherished grandchildren, Lorin Caron (Dustin) of Lewiston, Maine, Seth Little of Mobile, Alabama, Morgan Little of Lewiston, Maine, Kaleb Little of Lisbon, Maine, Taylor Hewett (Justin) of Cheraw, SC, Kaitland Little of Biddeford, Maine, Logan Little of Yarmouth, Maine, and Connor Whitaker of Pageland, South Carolina; and her adored great-grandchildren, Scarlett Nichols, Abel Nichols, Hattie Caron, and Waylon Hewett.
Sisters include Barbara Birch (Donald) of Union, SC. Geraldine Rollings (Bob) of Pageland, SC. Maxine Bobco (Pete) of Houston, TX.
Special cousins include Linda Horton, Libby Marsh, Kathy Phifer, Manda Campbell and Judy Plyler. Honored by special friends Janice Grant and Sheila Knight.
Sue Whitaker was a remarkable woman whose life was a beacon of service, dedication, love, and legacy. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the incredible impact she had on everyone she touched, especially her family, whose lives are forever enriched by her love and wisdom. Her memory will forever inspire us to live with purpose, love unconditionally, and always lend a helping hand, cherishing the family bonds that meant the world to her.
Funeral services were 2:00PM Sunday, February 25, 2024 at the Jefferson Church of God with a service of committal to follow in the Greenlawn Memorial Park. The family greeted friends following the service at the cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Jefferson Church of God, P.O. Box 116, Jefferson, SC 29718; or to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, https://www.lbda.org/donate/.
Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Whitaker family.