Elmwood Funeral Home and Cemetery

02/22/2026

https://elmwoodfhcolumbia.efuneral.com/

02/11/2026

Whether you choose in-ground burial, above ground entombment or an option for cremation, cemetery property provides a final resting place for family and friends to visit and reflect on your legacy. Dignity Memorial® cemeteries offer a wide range of burial options, and Dignity Memorial professionals are here to help you choose the property that best suits the personal wishes, family preferences and cultural traditions of you or your loved one. Watch this video to see these different options:

There are several types of cemetery properties and different burial options. Learn more about in-ground and aboveground options for you and your loved one.

02/02/2026

Betty Lou Bouknight
February 24, 1932 – January 26, 2026

Betty Lou Nichols Bouknight was born on February 24, 1932 and transitioned peacefully on January 26, 2026 to be with her Lord and Savior, at the age of 93, in Columbia, SC.

Betty was a 1950 graduate of Columbia High School . She was known for her strong faith, deep love for her community and her wonderful sense of humor. She was a devoted member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church where she was a member of both the choir and the handbell choir.

Hardworking and dedicated, Betty began her career with The Military District in Columbia, SC. She also used her gifts in numerous roles including W.M Bouknight Masonry Company as ”the boss lady” and accountant, positions with The City of Columbia as a bookkeeper, a legal secretary with The Epting Law Firm, as well as a position with The SC Student Loan Association before retiring. Her dedication and work ethics will be remembered by everyone who knew her.

Betty was a loving daughter, mother, aunt and grandmother who treasured time spent with her family. She enjoyed spending summer vacations at Folly Beach in Charleston, SC and going on Caribbean cruises! She was a wonderful cook and a talented artist. One of her favorite activities was dancing but her love of music was out of this world! She also treasured her beautiful jewelry collection and her beloved cat's!

She was preceded in death by her husband, Monroe Bouknight; her parents, Cecil and Gertrude Nichols; and her brother, Cecil Nichols, Jr. She leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Donna Bouknight Dailey (Butch); her son, Mike Bouknight (Karen) and her grandson, Michael Bouknight (Kaylee); her brother, “PeeWee” Ernest Nichols (Jean) and many nieces and nephews, along with a host of extended family and dear friends who will miss her profoundly.

We would also like to thank the many caregivers who helped us through this journey, especially Karen Bouknight, Katie, Ashley and Miss Jerry, Miss Daniell and Miss Jennifer. May her soul rest in peace and rise in glory!

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 10000 Broad River Road, Irmo, SC 29063. Visitation will be after the service in the fellowship hall.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/betty-bouknight-12722296

01/22/2026

Daisy Luella Treece Hartin
August 26, 1948 – December 20, 2025

Daisy Luella Treece Hartin, 77, of West Columbia, passed away peacefully on Saturday December 20, 2025. She was born in Columbia, South Carolina on August 26, 1948 and was the daughter of the late Margaret Luella Gibson Treece and David Glen Treece. She married the love of her life, James Michael Hartin, on August 2, 1997.

Daisy graduated from Dreher High School and worked for AT&T in Operator Services until her retirement. She was best known for her fiery red hair, which perfectly matched her “life of the party” personality. Daisy loved hosting family gatherings for Thanksgiving, Christmas, graduations, and birthdays. She also enjoyed attending Gamecock football games and tailgating with friends and family.

After retiring from AT&T, Daisy enjoyed gardening classes at Midlands Technical College and vacationing at Edisto Beach with Jim. She especially cherished time spent with friends and family–whether they were visiting, coming for dinner, or swimming in her pool.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jim” Michael Hartin; her sisters, Betty Wallace, Patsy Keels, Glenna Lovell, and Myrtle “Tuggie” Lowman; and her great-nephew Joshua Wylie Treece.

She is survived by her nieces and nephews: David Wallace (Virginia), Patsy Tanner (Phil), Gloria Whitehead (John), Barbara Loftis (Wendell), Pattie Mikell (David), Johnny Treece (Dawn), Penny Treece, Troy Lowman (Karan), Maggie Lowman, Craig Lowman (Carolyn); her stepchildren, Elaine Hartin, Ashley Hartin (Karen), Jamie Hartin (Tracy); great-nieces and great-nephews: Janine Mikell, Melanie Yoder (David), Caleb Treece, Trey Moss, Cameron Moss, Tiffany George, Harrington Lowman, Hampton Lowman, Haines Lowman; her great-great nieces and nephews; Harper, Hudson, Grayson, Elia, Story; and her step-grandchildren: Grey, Madeleine, Audrey, Andrew, Emilee, and Caroline.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, January 30, 2026 at Elmwood Cemetery, 501 Elmwood Avenue, Columbia SC 29201.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Pets Inc, PO Box 6394, West Columbia, SC 29169, https://petsinc.org.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/daisy-hartin-12678546

01/22/2026

Doris Ann Fletcher
January 1, 1940 – January 15, 2026

On January 15, 2026, Doris Ann Fletcher, 86, of West Columbia, South Carolina, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, while surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 1, 1940, in Columbia, South Carolina, Doris was the daughter of the late H.R. and Inez Williams. She spent her career working in Washington D.C. and also at the Veterans Administration office from where she retired. She was passionate about demanding accountability from politicians for their words and actions. She was very generous, giving freely to a number of organizations that she believed in. She was also a faithful, active member of Ebenezer Pentecostal Holiness Church.

Doris had a joyful spirit and a deep love for the Lord. She enjoyed traveling, cruises, dancing, cheating at cards, and spending time with her family—especially treasured brother-and-sister nights. Above all, she loved Jesus and her family, who were the center of her life. She was a daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and dear friend to so many.

She is survived by her two daughters, Dede (Wesley) and Darlene (Andy); her grandchildren Brandi, Brittany, Rachel, Andrea, Heather, Jennifer, Jessica, Craig, and Caleb; 17 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; and her siblings Jimmy, H.R. (Antha), Don (Peggy), and Debra (Lavern).

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, H.R. and Inez Williams, her sister, Donna and her sister-in-law, Miriam.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 2:00–3:00 p.m., with funeral services following at 3:00 p.m., at Ebenezer Pentecostal Holiness Church, 501 Church St. West Columbia, SC 29172.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/doris-fletcher-12709094

01/22/2026

Melissa Lynn Barr
October 5, 1967 – January 8, 2026

Melissa Lynn Barr, 58, of Lugoff, South Carolina passed away on January 8, 2026. Lisa was born in Columbia, South Carolina on October 5, 1967. Ms. Barr is the daughter of Brenda Smith Barr and the late James R. Barr.

Lisa spent her adult life doing everything she loved. Lisa loved going to the beach, hunting for shark teeth, fishing, crafts, and most importantly being with her family and friends. Lisa loved everyone she met and was such a sweet and gentle soul.

Lisa is survived by her mother, Brenda Barr of Chapin, SC; her sisters, Teresa Barr of Columbia, SC, Katherine Camerino of Chapin, SC, and her brother, Woody Barr of Chapin, SC; her children, Carolyn Reiber (Chris Moss) of Gaston, SC and Reeseford Reiber (Jordan Howren) of Houston, TX; also her four grandchildren, Michael Reiber, Austin Ware, Brianna Ware, and Tristin Pitts.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 PM on January 24, 2026 at Elmwood Funeral Home located at 501 Elmwood Avenue, Columbia, SC 29201.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/melissa-barr-12701391

01/09/2026

James Edward Joye Sr.
April 19, 1937 – January 5, 2026

Columbia, SC - James Edward Joye Sr. passed away peacefully in his home on January 5, 2026 at the age of 88. Born on April 19, 1937, he was a son of the late James Furman Joye and the late Ollie Mae Joye (née Dennis), a brother to Betty Joye McQuatters of West Columbia, the late Furman Merell Joye, the late Marlene Joye Strange, and the late Mildred Joye Marsh. He was given the nickname Slick by a dear family friend, “Aunt Katie”, when he was a young schoolboy and the name stayed with him for his entire life. Slick pursued a career as a salesman in various industries from Edisto Dairy Farms to paper products, automotive parts, uniforms, and grocery stores across the state. In September of 1956 he became a beloved husband to the late Nettie JoAn Harrison, together they raised four children who went on to bless them with ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Slick and JoAn became involved in their church by leading Sunday School classes, volunteering with children’s ministries, and Mr. Joye served as a deacon at Park St. Baptist before transferring their membership to Shandon Baptist Church later in life. They enjoyed athletics in their leisure time by bowling with friends, golfing with family, watching the Carolina Gamecocks, coaching children’s baseball teams, and in later years by showing up to cheer for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren at horseback arenas, ball fields, performing arts centers, and gymnasiums all over the state. After JoAn’s passing in 2017, Slick continued to pour himself into the family they created and into the people of his community. He had a very generous spirit, especially for children and for people who were unable to care for themselves. He spent his days bringing meals to neighbors who couldn’t get out much, visiting with them, socializing at his favorite restaurant, Lizard’s Thicket on Forest Drive, where he was known to give out small toys to children there regularly just to bring a little joy to strangers and earning him the nickname “Summer Santa” by the staff. He was a tirelessly hardworking man who never stopped caring for those around him, never stopped showing love for others, and never stopped serving God.

He is survived by his sister Betty McQuatters of West Columbia; his daughter Jennifer Boltin (James) of Columbia, his sons James E. Joye Jr (Lilian) of Lexington, and Alex Lewis (Christine) of Anderson; grandchildren Harrison Boltin, Jessica VanWyk (Brandon), Hutch Joye, Tessie Joye, Justin Joye, Ansleigh Lewis, Levi Lewis, and Charlie Lewis; great-grandchildren John Harrison Boltin, JoyeAnna Boltin, Jane-Maecyn Boltin, Kaylynn VanWyk, Sterling VanWyk, SebastianVanWyk, and Mackenzie Binnall. As well as step-grandchildren Patrick Boltin (Reca), Lari Londino, Jen Dempster (Matt); step-great-grandchildren Ethan, Caroline, Jack, Pryor, Brodie, Dylan, Kyler; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, his beloved wife JoAn, son John Harrison Joye of Jacksonville, FL, brother Furman Merell Joye of Kansas City, MO, sisters Marlene Strange of Columbia, and Mildred Marsh of Blythewood.

A memorial service will be held at Shandon Baptist Church on Wednesday, January 14th upstairs in the Chapel. The family will receive visitors beginning at 12:00pm with the service to follow at 1:00pm. Interment will be held at a later date with family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to James Joye’s Great-Grandchildren’s College Fund via Venmo (-Joye-7) or checks mailed to the home.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/james-joye-12693287

01/07/2026

Dennis Barden Brown
May 29, 1949 – December 29, 2025

Dennis Barden Brown, of Irmo, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, at the Life Care Center of Columbia, SC, following a courageous and grace-filled battle with dementia. He was born on May 29, 1949, in Johnston County, North Carolina, to the late Johnnie B. Brown and Annie Pearl Thompson Brown of Smithfield, NC.

Dennis was a proud graduate of Wilson Mills High School and Pembroke State College. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and genuine kindness toward others.

He is survived by his loving children, Summer Labrecque (Michael) and Derren Brown; his cherished grandchildren, Andrew Barone, Leighton Labrecque, Lilith “Lily” Labrecque, and Delilah Labrecque; and his siblings, Gloria Creech, Angela Olive, Craig Olive, James “Tip” Olive, Martin “Fuzzy” Olive, and Terry Ann Nichols.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Brenda Dixon, and his brothers, Wayne, Danny, and Jerry Brown, Bill Olive, and Ronnie Olive; and his sisters, Betty Olive, Ellis Carrol, and Cathy Daniels.

Dennis spent the majority of his career in the automotive industry, devoting 25 years to owning and operating his own Exxon gas station before later retiring from Pope-Davis. Known affectionately as “Doc,” he was deeply admired by his customers and friends for his honesty, loyalty, and cheerful, welcoming spirit.

An avid golfer and devoted fan of NC State and the Carolina Panthers, Dennis took great joy in sharing his love of sports with his son. Above all, he was a devoted grandfather who treasured time spent with his grandchildren. His appreciation for the outdoors was evident in his passion for gardening and hunting, and he was a proud member and President of the Deer Skinners Hunt Club.

Dennis was a faithful and active member of Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church and had a deep love for the Lord. As dementia gradually limited his ability to participate in many of the activities he once enjoyed, his faith remained steadfast. Church was the one constant he held onto the longest, a testament to the strength of his belief and devotion.

Dennis was deeply loved by many and will be fondly remembered for his warmth, character, and faith. While he will be greatly missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now restored, at peace, and reunited with his Heavenly Father.

A celebration of life service will be held for Dennis on Friday, January 9 2026 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church located at 6952 St Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29212 beginning at 7pm. Dennis’s burial service will be in the Brown Family Cemetery in Selma, North Carolina at a later date.

Dennis’s family wants to thank all those who helped and supported Dennis during this difficult time and a special thank you to his caregivers and the staff at Three Oaks Hospice who provided gentle and loving care.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/dennis-brown-12683351

12/30/2025

Patricia Linda Kyzer
April 18, 1940 – December 28, 2025

Patricia Linda Kyzer, 85, peacefully passed away Saturday, December 27th, 2025. Born on April 18th, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Johnnie J. Kiser and Myrtle H. Kiser and the wife of the late Carl J. Kyzer. She attended Lexington High School and was a member of Covenant Baptist Church in West Columbia.

Linda was loved by her family and church friends. Everyone knew her for her smile and laughter. She loved to sing hymns, worship the Lord Jesus Christ, and spend time with her church family, especially the younger ladies. She enjoyed yellow flowers, working in her yard, cooking, meals together with family, reading her bible and the long discussions of God’s word with her husband, Carl.

Linda was preceded in death by her brothers, Johnny Kiser and Jan Kiser. She is survived by her daughter, Charlene Lucas (Jimmie) and son, Kevin Kyzer (Reneé); seven grandchildren, Ashley Bedenbaugh (Mark), Corey Lucas, Amanda Smith (Everette), Chelsey Faircloth (Weston), Sarah Burnett (Chris), Stephanie Lynn (Adam) and Randi Wooten (Spencer Wiesnet); eleven great-grandchildren, Mckinley, Sawyer, Sadie, Landon, Reagan, Walker, Braxton, Georgia, Micah, Isaac, and Judah; sisters, Mary Williams, Gwen Sease (Bill), Patsy Kiser, and Ann Leonhardt; and brother, Harry Kiser.

The family would like to say thank you to all of those who cared for her, visited, and prayed during these times.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 at Covenant Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Covenant Baptist Church, 3535 Delree Street, West Columbia, SC 29170.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/patricia-kyzer-12682029

12/16/2025

Randy Lee Childress
April 16, 1954 – December 6, 2025

Randy Lee Childress died December 6th, 2025, at the age of 71. He was predeceased by his father, Wilbur Herbert Childress. Surviving family include his wife of 40 years, Teresa Arnold; his children, Spencer (and wife McKenzie), Anna (and fiancé Rodney Wallace), and Lesley Bennett; his grandsons, Chris and Steven Vinson; his great-grandchildren, Elijah and Abby Vinson; his mother, Ann; his brothers, Jim (Vanessa), Charles (Paula), and Blake (Becky); and many beloved nephews and nieces.

Randy was a talented guy: a custom woodworker; a devout environmentalist (he recycled before recycling was popular); a Master Waste Educator; a gifted teacher; an incredibly knowledgeable geographer; a devoted gardener (he never met a w**d); a pragmatic liberal; and a prolific "Rant and Raver" in our local Free Times (he once got nine of his rants published on one day). Most of all, he was a proud husband and father.

Randy was skilled at renovations and was a general contractor for many years. His favorite job, however, was building sets for the Theater Department at the University of South Carolina. He was also a Social Studies teacher at Hand Middle School, lovingly remembered by many of his students for his antics in the classroom.

He was an Army brat and traveled the world—from Japan to Panama. His passion for travel only grew as he became an adult, loving other cultures and peoples. He greeted everyone he met with a smile and an open heart, ever curious and always talkative.

Randy was also a giver. He rang bells for the Salvation Army, volunteered as a House Parent with his wife at Christmas for ten years (they were awarded the Midlands Family of the Year), used his building skills with Habitat for Humanity, and gave over 16 gallons of blood to the Red Cross. Not being able to give blood was one of his greatest regrets from contracting cancer.

He earned a Master's and undergraduate degree in Geography from the University of South Carolina. He was an honor graduate of the carpentry and cabinet making program at Midlands Tech.

“I love you and I like you,” was his mantra that he spoke to his wife every morning over coffee.

Randy will be interred at Elmwood Cemetery in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday, December 28th, in a private ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be announced later.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbia-sc/randy-childress-12657948