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Hatcher Funeral Home, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, SC (2026)

02/21/2026

Ms. Judith Elizabeth Cleage LaFauci, 82, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, surrounded by the love and presence of her family.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Whole Life Ministries, 2621 Washington Road #3, Augusta, Georgia 30904. The family will greet friends immediately following the service.

Judith was preceded in death by her sister, Alma Jean Koch, and her half-brother, Kip Cleage.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in her children: Angela LaFauci Rodgers of Aiken, South Carolina; Christine LaFauci Kralemann (David) of Salem, Alabama; and Tony LaFauci (Kelley) of Macon, Georgia. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Kelly Lese Peters (Drew), Timothy L. Wolf, Jr., Joseph James Roddy, and Madeline Anna LaFauci, and a cherished great-grandmother to Camryn Leigh Johnson and Beau Daniel Peters. She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews, Elizabeth Strickland (Tim), Richard Koch, Shannon Koch, and David Koch, along with many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Clifford F. Cleage and Evelyn Brewer Cleage, Judith built a successful career in the banking industry before retiring. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a dedicated member of Whole Life Ministries, she faithfully served on the Praise and Worship Team, the choir, and the Prayer Team, sharing her joyful spirit and unwavering devotion.

Gifted with a beautiful singing voice, Judith used her talent throughout her life, including performing with Sweet Adelines, where she formed lasting friendships and brought joy to many through music.

Judith’s family shared a love for tennis, and she and her children enjoyed competing together in their younger years. She delighted in life’s simple pleasures, going to the movies, even attempting to negotiate one last trip in her final weeks, dining out with loved ones, and caring deeply for her dog and cats. Her warmth, humor, and zest for life will be remembered by all who knew her.

In honor of Judith’s great love for animals, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Friends of the Animal Shelter, Aiken, South Carolina. https://www.fotasaiken.org/donate/

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Trinity Hospice and Edgefield Post Acute for the exceptional care, kindness, and support shown to Ms. LaFauci. Their dedication and willingness to go above and beyond brought comfort and peace during her final days.

02/21/2026

Mr. James Russell Young, 82, beloved husband of 61 years to Mrs. Eloise Callender Young, was greeted into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 PM on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, South Carolina 29829.

A graveside service celebrating Russell’s life will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Graniteville, South Carolina, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:00 noon with Pastor Tad Marshall officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be William Hollingsworth, Matt Alverson, Colby Martin, and Walt Kahres.

Russell leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. In addition to his cherished wife, Eloise, he is survived by his daughter, Robin Cunningham (Michael); his grandchildren, Maggie Alverson (Matt), Anna Kate Hightower (Colby), Lizbeth Cunningham, and Jared Cunningham; and his precious great-grandson, Russ Alverson, who brought him immense joy.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Russell was the son of the late John Russell Young and Laura Elizabeth Evans Young. He proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Alaska during the Vietnam War era.

A highly skilled and gifted mechanic, Russell dedicated many years of service to Johnson Motor Company and as a sales representative with Snap-On Tools. He later worked at the United States Postal Service. His hands were rarely still, and his talents were evident in everything he repaired, restored, or built.

Russell had a lifelong passion for aviation and craftsmanship. As a member of the Trenton Flying Club, he delighted in building, flying, and teaching others about remote control model airplanes. He also found great satisfaction in restoring antique cars and trucks, bringing old treasures back to life with patience and precision.

A man of deep faith, Russell served as a deacon at Southgate Baptist Church in his early years, where he was active in the bus ministry. After moving to South Carolina, he became a member of Lakeside Baptist Church. He was passionate about the Men’s Prayer Meetings.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lakeside Baptist Church, Russell Young Camp Scholarships, at besidethelake.com or by mail to Lakeside Baptist Church, PO Box 1730, Clearwater, SC 29822.

Russell will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady hands, servant’s heart, and unwavering love for the Lord and his family.

02/12/2026

Mrs. Mayo Jones Shedd, 92, beloved wife of the late Tommie Eugene Shedd, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026.

Born in Elberton, Georgia, Mayo was one of eight children born to the late Elizabeth Payton Jones and Earnest Tillman Jones. On September 21, 1956, she married the love of her life, Tommie Shedd, and together they made their life and home in Washington, Georgia.

She was well known for her love of family, and she demonstrated it best in the kitchen. She enjoyed cooking big family breakfasts using her cast-iron skillet, and the smell of sausage, bacon, biscuits, grits, scrambled eggs, and fresh coffee would wake everyone in the house early in the morning. For the holidays, she made homemade banana pudding and would always sneak a bowl while it was still warm. A woman of deep faith, Mayo loved the Lord and lived her life guided by kindness, generosity, and a sharp, witty sense of humor. She touched many lives and will be remembered for the love she freely shared with her family and all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, Mayo was preceded in death by her husband, Tommie, and her seven siblings: Alton V. Jones, R. Juanita Jones, Conrad F. Jones, Pat Jones, Allen B. Jones, Ben T. Jones, and Larry D. Jones.

She leaves behind a loving legacy through her daughter, Elizabeth Kay Shedd Strand and her husband, David; her son, Kenneth Eugene Shedd and his wife, Lisa; eight grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

While she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices and has comfort in knowing that she is now in the everlasting presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, and has reunited with her loved ones that have gone before her.

The family will greet friends on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Lakeside Baptist Church, 4280 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Beech Island, SC 29842, with the service following at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lakeside Baptist Church to support the new playground fund.

02/10/2026

Mrs. Sara Jo Allen Hayes Langley, 83, beloved wife of the late Rev. Roy Hayes and the late John Edward Langley, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Born in Austin, Georgia, Jo was the daughter of the late Frank Joseph and Catheron Farmer Allen. She devoted fifteen years of faithful service to South Aiken Baptist Church School before retiring and was a longtime, devoted member of Cedar Creek Baptist Church.

Jo lived life with energy, color, and joy. Always on the move, she loved taking walks, shopping, and dancing whenever she had the chance. Known for her vibrant spirit, Jo had a deep love for jewelry and bright, colorful clothing, which she wore with elegance and confidence. Her warm smile and infectious laughter could light up any room and will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Roy Hayes, and her siblings, Brenda Allen, Ramon Allen, Elaine Allen, Jimmy Allen, and Ronnie Allen.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Jennifer Elizabeth Bayne of Aiken, South Carolina, and Rick Mobley of Blackshear, Georgia; her brothers and sisters, Russell Allen of Vidalia, Georgia, Cathy Beasley of Tifton, Georgia, Harry Allen (Debbie) of Arizona, Larry G. Allen (Elaine) and Berrie Allen (Sandy), both of Vidalia, Georgia, Donna Howyack (Allen) of Mississippi, Butch Allen (Sandra) of Mt. Vernon, Georgia, Sharon Lumley of Vidalia, Georgia, and Lana Finch of Swainsboro, Georgia; her grandchildren, Kathryn Taylor Bayne and Mykah Haylee Bayne; and her cherished great-grandson, Carson Isaiah Deloach.

The family will greet friends on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, South Carolina 29829. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. in Pine Forest Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Phillip Lee officiating.

In lieu of flowers, Jo requested that memorials be made to Cedar Creek Baptist Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road, Aiken, South Carolina 29803, or online at
https://www.cedarcreekchurch.net/give/

02/07/2026

Mr. Jesse Wade Cochran, 58, unexpectedly entered into eternal rest on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Born in Aiken, South Carolina, Jesse was the son of the late James Edward Cochran, Sr. and Jean Foster Boyd. He was a gifted carpenter, known for his remarkable ability to build and fix just about anything with his hands. Jesse took great pride in his work and found joy in the simple pleasures of life—especially fishing and spending Sunday afternoons watching NASCAR.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Miriam Evidge, Susan King, and Crystal Newman.

Left to cherish Jesse’s memory are his daughter, Jessica Cochran Boland (Ryan) of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; his grandchild, Kai Boland; and his beloved siblings, Marla Norris (Greg) of Graniteville, South Carolina, Warren Eubanks (Wanda) of Edgefield, South Carolina, Patti Boatwright of Bath, South Carolina, his twin brother, Johnny Cochran (Mary Helen) of Aiken, South Carolina, and James E. Cochran, Jr. of Wagner, South Carolina.

Jesse will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of family, and the quiet joy he found in doing what he loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Foundation for the Blind https://afb.org/get-involved/waystogive

02/04/2026

Mrs. Patricia Ann “Pat” Cox, 70, of North Augusta, SC, wife of Duane Cox, entered into rest on Monday, February 2, 2026.

Born in Kingston, GA, and a resident of Rome, GA, until age 16, she is the daughter of the late Earl and Gladys Crunkerton Dotson.

Miss Pat was formerly employed by the Swint Division of the Graniteville Company, where shea Weaver. She enjoyed crocheting, fishing, and time with her family. Miss Pat looked forward to the weekly UNO game with family.

Along with her husband, family members include sons, Freddie (Billie Jo) Hilliard and George Hilliard, siblings, J.R. Dotson, George Dotson, Burl Dotson, John Glenn Dotson, Anne Russell and Patsy Tillery, Duane’s son, Duane (Brittany) Cox, Jr and grandchildren, Krystal (Michael) Runyon, Robert Hilliard, Kayla Hilliard, Layla Cox, Ryleigh Cox and Levi Cox.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 5 o’clock in the chapel of Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, SC. Pastor Dexter Lambert will officiate. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorials in memory of Miss Pat may be given to the American Cancer Society. (www.cancer.org)

02/04/2026

Mr. Laverne Andrew “Vern” Moxley, born April 9, 1939, of Graniteville, SC, husband of the late Alma Louise “Joyce” Rearden Moxley, laid down his working tools and entered that celestial lodge above at 86 on Saturday morning, January 31, 2026.

A lifelong area resident and proud “Graniteville Boy”, he is the son of the late James Andrew and Annie Maude Phillips Moxley. He retired from International Paper after many years of dedicated service.

Laverne had a “need for speed”. He had a passion for drag racing, where he won over 100 trophies during his racing years, enjoyed NASCAR. He always had a love for fast cars, boats, and motorcycles. In his mind, anything with an engine was not meant to be driven slowly.

A true jack of all trades, Laverne could fix or build just about anything. He was well known for his attention to detail and making sure things were right.

He was happiest when surrounded by his family—his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. One of his greatest joys was Sundays, when he would eagerly look forward to the kids and grandkids coming over after church to visit, eat, and spend time together. Those moments meant everything to him.

Brother Laverne was a proud Mason, he was a member of the Horse Creek Masonic Lodge #174, AFM, was member of the York Rite and was also a Shriner. He enjoyed coming to the lodge with Jimmy until his health began to decline.

He was preceded in death by his sisters: Evelyn Moxley Johnson Inabinet (Melvin Johnson, Judd Inabinet), Mildred Moxley Eidson Yonn (Wilbur Eidson, Alton Yonn), Dorothy Moxley Seigler (Jodelle), and Jimmie Moxley Cromer (Jesse).

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Jimmy (Gloria) Moxley, Ricky (Lorrie) Moxley, Diane Moxley (Wayne) Nobles, and Rhonda Moxley (Chris) Cutright; his sisters Marion Moxley Galloway (the late Edward Galloway) and Linda Moxley Adams Hunt (the late Jimmy Adams and Brooks Hunt); a special sister-in-law, Jenny Rearden Fulghum, and the late Wayne Fulghum; a special former son-in-law, Wallace Owens; and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he adored.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Pruitt Health in Evans for the love, compassion, and exceptional care they gave Daddy during his time there.

Laverne was the best daddy and papa anyone could have. He was deeply loved, and he will be missed more than words can express.

The family will greet friends on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 6 until 8 o’clock at Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, SC. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2025, at 11 o’clock in the chapel of Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Mel Minitor will officiate. Interment with Masonic Rites accorded by the brethren of Horse Creek Masonic Lodge, will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Graniteville, SC. Masonic brethren from other lodges are invited and encouraged to attend. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Moxley, Ricky Moxley, Ricky Moxley, Jr., Andrew Eubanks, Wayne Nobles and Josh Adams.

Please consider making memorials in memory of Noble Moxley to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

02/04/2026

SFC. Ronald Herbert Driscoll, 83, United States Army Retired, of Aiken, SC, beloved husband of nineteen years to Edith Boatwright Driscoll, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

Born in Butler, PA, he is the son of the late William C. Driscoll and Adeline Straccia Burkhalter.
Ron answered his country’s call and enlisted in the United States Army and was soon after sent to Vietnam, where he spent one year, nine months and six days. After his twenty years of dedicated service to his country, he retired earning the rank of Sergeant First Class. For his honorable service, he was awarded the following: Good Conduct Medal Silver Clasp W/1 Loop, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry.

Following his retirement, he resided in Martinez, GA, where he remained until 2003.

Not ready to just sit around and do nothing, he answered God’s call and went into the ministry.

Brother Ron was a member of the Langley Church of God. He was happiest when he was spreading the Gospel of his Lord and Savior.

Along with his wife, Ron is loved and will be missed by Edith’s daughter Marjorie (Robbie) Pearson, who he loved as she were his own daughter, sisters, Nancy Moore and Addie Brown, grandchildren, Ashley, William and Leslie Pearson, great-grandchildren, Dylan and Daxter Brooks, as well as several nieces and nephews, extended family members and his much loved church family.

Also preceding Ron in death were siblings, Arlene Foster, Janice McAnn, William “Bill” Driscoll and a niece, Nora Jean Smith.

Friends are welcome to visit with the family on Thursday, February 5, 2026, beginning at 1 o’clock at the Langley Church of God, Langley, SC. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2 o’clock at the church. Pastors George Webb and Eddie Hardee will officiate. Interment with military honors accorded by a United States Army Honor Guard will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Graniteville, SC.

Memorials in memory of Ron may be made to the Disabled Veterans of America. (www.dav.org)

02/04/2026

Mrs. Joan Mildred Collins Mullins, 90, beloved wife of the late Mr. Glenn A. Mullins, peacefully entered into rest on Monday, February 2, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by love.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 526 Hitchcock Parkway, Aiken, South Carolina 29801, beginning at 10:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Brad Rogers officiating. A private interment will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Graniteville, South Carolina.

Serving as pallbearers will be George Zachmann, Cody Spence, Stephen Smithers, and Paul Babb.

Mrs. Mullins was born in Aiken, South Carolina, to the late Espie Langley Collins and Ruby Beard Collins. She dedicated more than 30 years of faithful service to the Department of Energy at the Savannah River Site, retiring after a long and respected career.

A founding and devoted member of New Covenant Presbyterian Church, Joan’s faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She was a gifted cook whose kitchen was the heart of her home, and she shared her love most freely by feeding and caring for her family and friends. Her meals, warmth, and generous spirit created memories that will be cherished for generations.

Left to treasure her memory are her children: Deborah Junker of Auburn, Alabama; Janet Clonts of Lexington, South Carolina; Ken Locklear of Aiken, South Carolina; and Lisa Pate (Randy) of Birmingham, Alabama. She is also survived by her grandchildren, April Babb (Paul) of North Augusta, South Carolina; Reid Haislup (Chris) of Sanford, North Carolina; Melissa Williams (Jay) of Auburn, Alabama; Christen Lowry (Jacob) of Atlanta; and Ashley Zachmann of Auburn, Alabama; as well as seven great-great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Covenant Presbyterian Church or Life Choices Pregnancy Care Center.

The family would like to thank Tina Simmons, Mrs. Mullins, caretaker and companion, Terry Schilling, Piedmont/Trinity nurses, United Energy Workers, neighbors, and faithful friends from her church, for their care and compassion.

01/25/2026

Nicholas Ryan Barton, 38, entered into rest on Friday, January 23, 2026.

The family will greet friends Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 5 until 7 at Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, South Carolina 29829. A Celebration of Life service will be at 1 o’clock Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Burnettown with Brandon Barton and Corey Barton officiating and special speaker, Brad Barton. Interment will follow in Langley Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Godwin, Rusty McGee, Brandon Padilla, Derrick Coleman, Russell Smith, and Luis Gallardo. Honorary pallbearer will be Lewis Eubanks.

Left to cherish Nick’s memory is his son, Lain Ryan Le Barton; his parents, Harry Leon “Pater” Barton and Cynthia “Cindy” Franklin Barton; his brother and sister-in-law, Shawn and Jennifer Barton and his nephews, Braylon Barton and Cameron Barton.

Nick was born in Augusta, Georgia. Prior to his health declining, he had been a supervisor with Augusta Industrial. Being a heavy equipment operator, he had worked with South Carolina Forestry Commision. Nick was a dedicated fireman with the Midland Valley Fire Department.

His favorite times were spent with his son, Lain. Whether they were going to the movies, tubing in the river, zip lining or eating all you can eat crab legs, time with his son was the best.

01/24/2026

Mr. Rudolph “Rudy” Doolittle, 84, beloved husband of Mrs. Ollie Turner Doolittle, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

The family will greet friends on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, South Carolina 29829. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Warrenville Cemetery, Warrenville, South Carolina. Pallbearers will be Duane Lively, Benny Lively, James Sullivan, and Brice Doolittle.

Rudy was born in Augusta, Georgia, to the late Henry Doolittle and Ada Axie Rodgers Doolittle. He retired from Graniteville Company after many years of dedicated service. In his leisure time, Rudy found great joy in gardening, hunting, and especially fishing—pastimes that brought him peace and happiness throughout his life.

Left to cherish his memory, in addition to his devoted wife, Ollie, are children, Kevin Doolittle (Lee), Richard Morris (Linda), and Becky Garner (Steve); two brothers, Mike Doolittle (Shirley) and Gerald Doolittle (Mona); four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a dear friend, Brenda Mead.

01/24/2026

Mr. John Gary Strong, 88, beloved husband of sixty-seven years to Mrs. Juan Alice Mock Strong, entered into rest on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

The family will greet friends on Friday, January 30, 2026, at noon at Hatcher Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3464 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville, South Carolina 29829, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 1 o’clock in the funeral home chapel with Reverend Brancie Stephens officiating. Interment with masonic rites accorded will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Graniteville, South Carolina. Pallbearers will be Brandon K. Blaney, John E Strong, Tony Lanzillotti, Jordan Zeckser, Silas Zeckser, Evelynn Richard.

He was a faithful member of Corinth Baptist Church in New Ellenton, South Carolina. He was also a proud member of the Hopewell Masonic Lodge #127 and the Eastern Star, and remained connected to music and fellowship through his involvement as a trumpet player with the Charlotte Symphony in the mid-1960s. During his years with Eastern Airlines, he was part of the Eastern Airlines Bowling Team, forming lasting friendships along the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Edward Strong and Mamie Gladys Dowdy Strong, and by his sisters, Janie Elizabeth Tucker and Annie Evelyn Strong.

He is survived by his loving children, Karen Strong Blaney and John William Strong (Linda); his grandchildren, Brandon K. Blaney, John E. Strong, Anthony R. Lanzillotti, and Christy Zeckser; and six cherished great-grandchildren.

He was a graduate of LBC High School in Langley and took great pride in more than 30 years of dedicated service with Eastern Airlines Ramp Service. A man of many interests, he had a deep love for music and especially enjoyed playing the organ. He was well-traveled, having visited destinations including Hawaii, Germany, Las Vegas, and Alaska, and he enjoyed taking several cruises. In his free time, he found great joy on the water, owning several boats and spending many happy hours on Lake Wylie, South Carolina. He also owned and rode several motorcycles, embracing both adventure and freedom throughout his life.

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