02/10/2026
Proud to have known him
This week, we would like to pay tribute to the memory of John B. Hepburn in observance of Black History Month.
John B. Hepburn, Jr. was the son of the late John B. Hepburn, Sr. and Sara B. Hepburn, born on January 20, 1960. He was educated in the Marlboro County School System. He was married to Deidre K. Hepburn, and they had one son, Alex (Lauren), and one granddaughter, Sydney Clare (also known as Baby Girl). He also had a bond with Dr. Toris Quick that was more like that of brothers, where he survived the public while working alongside Dr. Quick at Quick's Funeral Home. John B. commenced his distinguished career on March 21, 1985.
He aspired to join the Bennettsville Police Department, following in the footsteps of Chief Pete Copland, the first African American chief of police in Bennettsville and the state, whom he deeply admired. John B. sought to set a precedent for other African American officers. He advanced to the rank of administrative captain before transitioning to work under newly elected Marlboro County Sheriff William Simon. He eventually returned to the Bennettsville Police Department under the leadership of then-Chief Larry McNeil.
We affectionately referred to him as B. Throughout his tenure, he served the citizens of this county for over 30 years, mentoring officers who remain in service to this day. B adopted a hands-off approach, allowing officers to perform their duties while providing opportunities for growth. He was a strong advocate, readily offering support and facilitating access to necessary training to facilitate career advancement within the agency. With B, one always knew where they stood; if he held you in high regard, he would express his sentiments, and if not, his silence spoke volumes. Despite the challenges posed by societal attitudes prevalent in the 1980s, he persevered, surmounting the color barrier and contributing to the delivery of justice to families affected by heinous crimes.
John B. departed his earthly home on April 26, 2025. We are honored to have known him and are proud of the legacy he leaves behind here on earth. His memory will continue to live on through all those whose lives he touched.
