Avinger Funeral Home

11/07/2025

With so many benefits available to veterans, it's hard to keep everything straight and know what's what. Today, let's set the record straight on these top 4 misunderstandings about VA burial benefits, so you know exactly what to expect! Click the link to learn more.

It's not uncommon to have misunderstandings about veterans' burial benefits. Check out this article to clear things up!

11/07/2025

Whether you know exactly what you want in a funeral, or have no idea, our goal is to present you with all your options at the start. We want to get to know you and your family, so you can decide what the best option is for your family. We won't pressure you or force you into anything. We promise to treat you with care, compassion, and dignity during your time of loss.

To learn more about your options and services, call us today at 803-496-3434.

11/06/2025

Thomas "Bird" Kay Vandyke

“Bird” Vandyke, born Thomas Kay, was the twin son of Ira “Buddy” and Mary June Hale Vandyke. Bird was a long-time resident of Vansant, VA where he was a coal mine operator, co-owner of Bill Branch Coal Mine and co-owner of Di**le Bird Explosives. Upon retirement, Bird moved to Eutawville, SC where he met his wife Carol and raised two sons sharing his passions for hunting, fishing, farming and working.

Bird is pre-deceased by his parents and twin brother, James Ray “Di**le” Vandyke.

Bird is survived by his wife, Carol, of over 35 years; sons Tyler Kay (Whitney) and Stuart Thomas (Mercedez); grandchildren Grant Knox, Finley Rae and Chloe Ruth. Bird is also survived by brother, Ira Leon “Punk” Vandyke (Debbie) of Abingdon, VA; sister-in-law Pauline Vandyke of Rocky Gap, Va; sons Tommy Elton, Nathan Scott and Jamie Kay of Abingdon, VA.

Bird was a member of First Baptist Church of Eutawville and a Past Master of Vance Masonic Lodge #230. He loved to garden, ride the farm in his buggy, hunt, fish and especially spend time with his grandchildren. He was thrilled to have his two oldest grandchildren shoot their first bucks off the Vandyke farm this Fall.

The family will receive friends Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 5-7PM at Avinger Funeral Home. A service will be held Monday, November 10, 2025, at 11AM at First Baptist Church of Eutawville, 507 Factory Road, Eutawville. A graveside service will be held Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 1PM at Greenhills Memory Gardens, 11800 Governor G C Peery Hwy., Cedar Bluff, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to First Baptist Church of Eutawville Building Fund, the Vance Masonic Lodge, or a charity of your choice.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at avingerfh.com/. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Avinger Funeral Home, 2274 Eutaw Rd, Holly Hill, SC 29059, (803)496-3434.

View Thomas "Bird" Kay Vandyke's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/05/2025

Looking for a meaningful way to appreciate a veteran, but not sure where to start? This article has some thoughtful ways to honor their service and sacrifices.

There are many ways to honor those who served

11/05/2025

As much as the idea makes us groan, exercise helps us combat the stress in our lives. By exercising, you lower your stress hormones, improve your sleep quality, and promote your mental well-being. Together, these all combine to help you stress less.

11/03/2025

11/01/2025

Don’t want to be late in the morning? Don’t forget to turn your clocks back one hour!

10/31/2025

Do you know the difference between full-couch and half-couch caskets? If you don't, you're not alone. Luckily, this short articles explain the differences in an easy-to-understand way. Check it out!

If you're planning a funeral, a casket may be something to consider, but do you know the difference between full-couch and half-couch?

10/30/2025

Does your family know what to do after your death?

If they don’t, then planning your funeral is likely to be more emotionally and financially draining than you might think. But you can ensure their success by creating an easy-to-understand roadmap to your wishes.

Simply sit down with us, review your options, and write down your wishes. You will make a difficult day so much easier for your grieving family.

Call us at 803-496-3434 to schedule a time to chat.

10/29/2025

After retirement, you have more time to find new hobbies, travel, or connect with your community. Browse this list of 24 fun activities and pick your favorite to try this week!

Wondering what to do with your newfound freedom? You should check out these awesome ideas!

10/28/2025

Relationships are what really matter in life, and we couldn’t agree more. You are important to us, and we are here to walk with you through all aspects of life, not just the funeral planning process. From helping you plan the services, to offering a listening ear and supportive care that will lift your spirits, we are here for you. At Avinger Funeral Home, you get so much more than funeral professionals. You get caring friends who are here for you today, tomorrow, and beyond.

To learn more, please call us or visit www.avingerfh.com.

10/27/2025

Have you ever wondered how a Navy ship gets its name? Did you know Neil Armstrong, Humphrey Bogart, MC Hammer, and Bob Barker all served in the Navy? As we celebrate the Navy today, here are 11 facts that you may not know about the U.S. Navy. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/13040/11-things-you-might-not-know-about-us-navy