Obituaries August 27, 2025
Madge Lenore Woodward Allen
RUBY — Madge Lenore Woodward Allen
Mrs. Madge Lenore Woodward Allen died Sunday, August 17, 2025 at the age of 103. Funeral services were held at 3:00 PM Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at White Oak Presbyterian Church by Reverend Charlie Short with burial following in the church cemetery. The family greeted friends from 2:00 – 3:00 PM Wednesday, prior to the service at the church.
Madge was born February 24,1922 in the White Oak Community of Ruby SC, the daughter of James and Mary Hancock Woodward. A lifelong and faithful member of White Oak Presbyterian Church, Madge cherished her church family.
Growing up during the Great Depression, Madge learned the value of hard work and resourcefulness. The spirit of Thrift followed Madge throughout her life. Madge always made certain her pecan crop was gathered and shelled to share with family and friends.
Inheriting the Woodward Green Thumb, Madge maintained a beautiful flower garden and provided the church every June with her beloved Day Lillies propagated by her Uncle Carl. During her later years, Madge was blessed with the loving fellowship of her White Oak Community Family and the companionship of her sister Doris. Prior to the birth of her daughter, Madge worked at B.C. Moore’s in Chesterfield.
In addition to her parents, Madge was preceded in death by her husband Loyd Allen, sister Doris Campbell, grandson Jack Thompson, and her infant sister Mary Elizabeth.
Madge is survived by her daughter Janice (Doug) Thompson, and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Very Special Thanks to Madge’s caregivers Mary Donahue, Lynn Davidson, and Marilyn Marshall, Marie Izzard, and Samantha McManus, supported by Hanna Williams and the wonderful staff at Gentiva Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to White Oak Presbyterian Church, c/o Linda Morton, 6947 Angelus Road, Ruby, SC 29741
Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Allen family.
###
James Merle Aul
PAGELAND — James Merle Aul, 79, of Pageland, SC passed away on August 19, 2025 in Pageland, South Carolina while surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 10, 1946 in Numine, Pennsylvania to the late James Aul and Mary Morock Aul. James, affectionately known as Jim to his friends and family, spent 44 beautiful years married to his beloved wife, Carla Aul of Pageland, SC. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and the occasional adventure to the beaches he adored. He was a devoted father to his children, Michele Celeste (Michael) of Sandborn, NY, Christine Boliver of Niagara Falls, NY, Thomas Boliver (Wendy) of Depew, NY, and Jamie Lynn Deese (Joe Johnson) of Pageland, SC. James was a loving grandfather to his fifteen grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson. Jim’s sisters, Mary Ann Reppenhagen of Jamestown, NY and Stella Costanzo of Grand Island, NY, remember him as a brother who could always be counted on for support and a good-hearted tease. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Dominic Morock and Bobby Aul, as well as his brothers-in-law, Neil Reppenhagen and Frank Costanzo. An avid outdoorsman, Jim found solace in the tranquility of fishing and hunting. His competitive spirit shone brightly when he played pool, darts, and euchre with friends and family. A true fan at heart, he never missed a chance to cheer for the Buffalo Bills, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and loyalty. Jim’s favorite saying, “yo baby,” was a testament to his playful nature and his ability to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Jim’s love for Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach was more than just a preference for sandy shores; it was a reflection of his love for life’s simple pleasures and the company of those he held dear. His ability to fix anything that needed repair earned him the affectionate title of being handy, a skill that he took great pride in and was always willing to share. Private Cremation Arrangements as per family request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gentiva Hospice, 205 East Main Street, Chesterfield, SC 29709 or Veterans Affairs, via www.cdceportal.va.gov>donate-online. Arrangements are entrusted to Baumgartner Funeral Home of Pageland, South Carolina (www.baumgartnerfh.com
###
Richard ‘Dick’ J. Blinkhorn
CHERAW — Richard “Dick” John Blinkhorn, a long-time resident of Cheraw, South Carolina, passed away on August 19, 2025, at the age of 95. He was born in Warwick, Rhode Island, on November 12, 1929, to John O. and Blondine Blinkhorn.
Dick was a spirited athlete in his youth, participating in basketball, football, and track during his high school years. Following his education, he pursued a career as a machinist before serving in the Navy. Later, he worked in the textile industry until his retirement.
Community involvement and volunteerism were important aspects of Dick’s life. He was a faithful parishioner of Saint Peter’s Catholic Church in Cheraw, SC and a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus. His dedication and passion extended to coaching youth baseball and basketball. He was an active member of Lions Club and is a past winner of Lion of the Year Award for his service in that organization. He generously volunteered at the Lions Club Food Bank. In his leisure time, Richard enjoyed golfing, fishing, dancing, and most importantly, spending time with his beloved grandchildren.
Richard was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Frances Basquin Blinkhorn, who passed away on July 16, 2019, after 65 years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by their son, Charles Arthur Blinkhorn, on October 10, 2022.
He Is survived by his loving children: Jayne S. Ross, with two children and one grandchild; Dr. Richard J. and Maria Blinkhorn, with three children and three grandchildren; Charles Blinkhorn (deceased) with three children and two grandchildren and his wife Olivia Blinkhorn, with three children and four grandchildren; Elaine and Ronald Cupp, with two children and two grandchildren; Robert and Debbie Blinkhorn, with two children and two grandchildren; and David and Karen Blinkhorn, with two children.
A rosary service will be held at 5:30 PM, Friday, August 29, 2025, at Kiser Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the rosary until 8:00 PM.
The mass service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, August 30, 2025, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Cheraw, SC. Burial will be in the St. Peter’s Catholic section of Old St. David’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to organizations in Cheraw that were meaningful to Dick. Donations can be directed to the Cheraw Recreation Center, PO BOX 219, Cheraw, SC 29520; St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 602 Market Street, Cheraw, SC 29520; and the Lions Club Food Bank, C/O Ann Bennett, 202 Poplar Street, Cheraw, SC 29520.
Kiser Funeral Home has been entrusted to serve the Blinkhorn family in their time of grief.
Online condolences may be made at www.kiserfuneralhome.com.
###
Miriam (Caro) Cullis
Jefferson, SC – With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Miriam (Caro) Cullis on August 15, 2025 shortly after her 72nd birthday. After a brief battle with pancreatic cancer, she passed away at home with her loving husband, Doug Cullis, in Jefferson, South Carolina. Miriam was born in New York, New York to Pedro and Delia Caro. She lived in Connecticut, then New Hampshire, before settling in South Carolina.
Miriam was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on earth was one marked by love, compassion and unwavering faith in God. Miriam loved life and it showed in the beautiful colors she brought to her stained glass art, her home and everything she touched. She used this creativity, along with kindness and generosity, to touch the lives of so many with her thoughtful cards and packages.
Miriam is survived by her husband of 34 years, Doug; her stepson, Adam Cullis and his daughter Shaylin; Siblings, Peter Caro (Jeannette), Freddie Caro (Sandra), and Gilbert Caro (Lisa) and 8 nieces and nephews, as well as her cat family. She was predeceased by her sister Carmen, (Yayi).
Miriam, a passionate lover of God and a long time member of the religion ECKANKAR, dedicated herself to teaching and facilitating ECK programs in the area.
###
Ida Ruth Sullivan Demby
Ida Ruth Sullivan Demby passed away on August 15 at the age of 94. A memorial service was held on Saturday, August 23, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home by Pastor Alisha Hansen and Brent Taylor. The family received guests after the service. Later she was laid to rest with close family members in a private burial at White Oak Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Ruby.
Born on August 3, 1931, she was a daughter of Robert James “Bob” Sullivan and Ruth Gardner Sullivan of Jefferson, S.C. She was a graduate of Jefferson High School.
In the early 1950’s she was employed as a seamstress for Saucony Mills and resided in Pageland. In 1957 her family relocated where her husband, who was a lineman for Sandhill Telephone (when it first began operations) was transferred to Chesterfield. In the 1960’s they opened Demby’s Washerette in Chesterfield, where Ida spent her mornings making change for laundromat patrons, cleaning the facility, and operating a state of the arts dry cleaning machine. She was employed as a teacher’s aide for the Child Development (pre-kindergarten) program at Edward’s Elementary School in the 1970’s. For the next decade, she worked at The First Methodist Church of Cheraw in the daycare program. She retired in 1990 to care for her two grandchildren, Doug and Clay Campbell.
Ida enjoyed keeping a well-manicured lawn and garden and a meticulously clean house. Although age took its’ toll on her body, she remained mentally sharp until well into her 90’s. The last two and a half years she has resided at Cheraw Health Care after breaking her hip. She enjoyed visiting with the staff, the residents, and visitors. She always kept her door open and had a bird’s eye view of the front door from her comfortable chair and her bed.
She is predeceased by her parents (listed above) and her two brothers, Robert J. Sullivan, Jr. and William C. “Bill” Sullivan. She is survived by her daughter, Kathy Demby Campbell, her grandsons Doug and Clay Campbell (his wife Hallie) of Columbia, SC, her sister, Frances Sullivan Melton of Ruby, SC, as well as nieces and nephews.
Ida was a member of Fork Creek Methodist Church in Jefferson where her parents and many prior generations of her family are buried. She later moved her membership to St. Paul United Methodist Church in Chesterfield. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, 305 West Main Street, Chesterfield, SC 29709.
Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Demby family.
###
Sheila A. Graham
CHERAW — Sheila Ashburn Graham, 64, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2025. Born in Indianapolis, IN, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Faye Haire Ashburn. Sheila spent nearly 20 years working for CHESCO Services, a job she cherished. She had a heart of gold and would always go above and beyond for everyone, especially her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy; being “Gaga” to them was her top priority. She loved to travel, especially going camping, and loved her Clemson Tigers and shopping for all the kids. She was the family leader, always taking care of being the event planner and cooking for everyone. Most of all, she was strong in her faith and loved the Lord.
Sheila is survived by her daughter, Kristi (Brad) Boob of Hartsville, SC, her brother, Richard “T.O.” Ashburn, grandchildren, Bailee Boob, Kallie Boob, Kamryn Boob and a much-anticipated granddaughter on the way, numerous nieces and nephews and her “sister-cousins”.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Suzanne Graham Harmeling, and her parents listed above.
The family received friends on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 3:00 to 4:00 PM at Whites Creek Freewill Baptist Church, 5169 Whites Creek Road, Wallace, SC.
A funeral service followed at 4:00 PM on August 26, 2025 at Whites Creek Freewill Baptist Church.
Burial was be in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be made to: American Cancer Society, c/o Kathy Treadaway, 275 Forest Drive, Cheraw, SC 29520
###
Doris Stubbs Moore
CHERAW — Doris Stubbs Moore, 89, formerly of Irmo SC, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025. She was born on August 5, 1936, in Bennettsville, SC, to the late James Robert and Carrie Cox Stubbs.
Doris had a distinguished career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, serving as president of the South Carolina Nurse Anesthetist Association in the 1980s. Known for her zest for life, she enjoyed traveling, playing bridge, and spending quality time with her family and friends, particularly relishing summer trips to the beach. In addition to her social engagements, Doris shared a passion for flying and boating with her husband.
In addition to her parents, Doris was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. D. Parker Moore, her brother, James Prentiss Stubbs, and her sister, Katie Lucille Stubbs Usher Freeman.
She is survived by her son, Camm Moore (Stephanie) of Southern, FL, as well as several nieces and nephews, including Arthur “Sonny” Usher (Donna) and Allen Usher (Glenda) of Cheraw, SC, and Jamie Molony (Steve) and Cathy Jones of Charleston, SC. Doris is also remembered by her grandson, Les Moore (Joy), and great-grandson, Elliott Moore.
At the request of Mrs. Moore, no formal services will be held at this time.
Memorial contributions may be made to Abba’s House Ministries, PO Box 639, Cheraw, SC 29520, or to McLeod Hospice, 711 Chesterfield Hwy., Cheraw, SC 29520.
Kiser Funeral Home has been entrusted to serve the Moore family in their time of grief.
Online Condolences may be made at www.kiserfuneralhome.com.
###
Mary Florence Eddins Raffaldt
RUBY — Mrs. Mary Florence Eddins Raffaldt entered into rest on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the age of 98. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 11:00 AM in the Ruby Cemetery by Pastor Ronald Thurman and Nathan Gardner. The family will greet friends following the service at the graveside.
Mrs. Raffaldt was born December 2, 1926, in Ruby, SC, the daughter the late Adolphus “Doll” and Flora Belle Gulledge Eddins. Mary found happiness working in her yard and took great pride in decorating her home and yard for Christmas—her favorite time of year. She began her career at Sacony and later retired from Ina Bearing, where she was a dedicated employee.
In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by two sisters, Sara Eddins, and Pat Wagner.
Survivors include her children, Robert “Bobby” Raffaldt of Chesterfield, SC, Billy (Pat Owens) Raffaldt of Ruby, SC, Kaye Chavis of Cheraw, SC; grandchildren, Patty (Dean) Sanders, Marcia (Jody) Rhyne, Amanda (Justin) Stanton, Donna (Rex) Willette, Gail Morris; great-grandchildren, Ashley Oliver, Gabe Oliver, Hunter Gainey, Deklan (Olivia) Woodell, Garyn (Dayton) Barr, Grayce Rhyne, Gabby Rhyne, Kalyn Stanton, Austin (Taylor) Willette, Carmen (Cass) Yancey; great-great-grandchildren, Gabriel Hare, and Castor Willette.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the employees of the Rehabilitation Center of Cheraw, and to Agape Hospice.
Memorials may be made to Agape Hospice, 309 E. Main Street, Bennettsville, SC 29512.
Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Raffaldt family.
###
Gerald ‘Jerry’ Lynn Willoughby
CHERAW — Mr. Gerald Lynn “Jerry” Willoughby, aged 78, passed away on August 15, 2025. He was born on August 24, 1946, in Muskogee, OK, to the late Cleo Morse and Lois Marie Baker Willoughby.
Mr. Willoughby earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Oklahoma and proudly served in the United States Army from August 1969 to August 1970. His military service was distinguished; he received the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Air Medal for his dedication and bravery.
Professionally, Jerry devoted the majority of his career to owning and operating a car lot in Sallisaw, OK. He was an avid golfer who found joy on the golf course, but his greatest fulfillment came from the time spent with his family, particularly his grandchildren.
He Is preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, John Eichling.
Jerry is survived by his sons, Eric Willoughby (Faith) of Cheraw, SC, and Jay Willoughby (Courtney) of Atoka, OK; his brother, Jack Willoughby (Laura) of Edmond, OK; his sister, Carol Eichling of Washington, MO; as well as his cherished grandchildren: Christena “Brooke” Willoughby (Vincent Hamilton), Scott Shaw, Christopher Shaw (Jiannah), Michael Willoughby, Grace Willoughby, Andrew Willoughby, Canyon Willoughby, and Jaycee Willoughby; and his great-grandchild, Walter Clark Shaw.
The family will hold a service at Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Oklahoma at a later date.
Kiser Funeral Home is honored to serve the Willoughby family during this time of grief.
Online condolences may be made at www.kiserfuneralhome.com.