02/08/2026
Robert Levell "R.L." Port, a cherished pillar of his community and a beacon of generosity and service, passed away peacefully at his home in Pleasant Hill, SC, on February 7, 2026. Born on September 22, 1935, in Georgetown County, R.L. lived a life marked by dedication to his family, work, and community.
R.L. was a proud graduate of Pleasant Hill High School, class of 1954, and went on to lead a life full of accomplishment and purpose. For over 48 years, he was a respected employee at Wellman Industries, later overseeing the Lanolin department. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as the owner and operator of "The Gathering Place" restaurant for over 20 years, where his fried chicken, biscuits, and squash casserole became renowned to the surrounding community.
Beyond his professional endeavors, R.L. was deeply committed to his faith as a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. His belief in backing his community and church was unwavering, as evidenced by his long-standing service on the Georgetown County Planning Commission Board and his proud support of local politics. R.L.'s dedication earned him the Lifetime Achievement Award for his service and dedication in South Carolina politics.
R.L.'s leadership extended to the Farm Bureau, where he served as county president for 48 years. Under his guidance, the membership flourished from 200 to 2,200 members, and he was honored with the 2025 Farm Bureau Distinguished Service Award. The Georgetown Farm Bureau office stands as a testament to his legacy, dedicated in his name.
A champion of youth and community sports, R.L., brought Dixie Youth Softball to South Carolina in 1980 and was instrumental in starting the Boy Scouts in Northern Georgetown County. He coached all girls and boys sports with passion and was inducted into the Dixie Youth Hall of Fame in 2009 in recognition of his contributions.
R.L. was predeceased by his beloved wife of 24 years, Linda Johnson Alford Port. He is survived by a loving family that includes his son, William Robert Levelle Port and his wife, Alicia Port; his grandchildren, Caroline Radwick, Leea Port, Charlie Vestal, Carson Port, Timothy Shepherd, Isabella Shepherd, and Riley Port. He also leaves behind his cherished sons-in-law, Scott Radwick and John Vestal, his daughter-in-law, Nichole Oates, and many nieces and nephews who he loved as his own.
He was predeceased also by his parents, William Jervin Port and Adria Anna Cribb Port; his daughters, Kimberley Alford Radwick and Cindy Alford Vestal; his brothers, Willie, Vernon, Julian, and James Port, and his sister, Edna Cribb.
Those who knew R.L. will remember him as the epitome of friendliness and generosity. His impact on the lives he touched and the community he so dearly loved will be felt for generations to come. Robert Levell "R.L." Port's legacy is one of love, service, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Funeral services will be at 5:00 PM, Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in the Family Life Center, 11904 Pleasant Hill Drive, Hemingway, SC 29554. Officiating will be Rev. Jonathan Griner and Rev. Jim Legendre.
The family will receive friends immediately after the service in the Family Life Center.
Burial will take place in the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church cemetery on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
Memorials in Mr. R.L.’s memory may be made to Pleasant Hill Community Organization, 200 Barnhill Road, Hemingway, SC 29554 or Pleasant Hill Booster Club, 10804 Old P*e Dee Road, Hemingway, SC 29554.
Online condolences may be left at www.young-fh.com
Young Funeral Home of Hemingway is in charge of the arrangements, (843) 933-4262.