Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel

02/20/2026

Many of us will become a caregiver at some point in our lives. The stress and strain of caregiving can take a toll on your health. It’s important to find ways to care for yourself while caring for others. Depending on your circumstances, some self-care strategies may be more difficult to carry out than others. Choose what works for you. Read more: https://bit.ly/3HtWCYC

02/19/2026

Cleo Evelyn Crumpton Daugherty
January 11, 1930 – February 13, 2026

Cleo Evelyn Crumpton Daugherty, a beloved and faithful resident of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away on February 13, 2026, at the age of 96. Cleo was born on January 11, 1930, near Elgin, South Carolina, as the third of six children to John Jabez and Mattie Atkerson Crumpton, who have both preceded her in death. She graduated from Blythewood School and began her working life at the Woolworth store in Columbia, where she met her future husband, John William Daugherty. They married in 1951, and Cleo devoted herself to being a mother and homemaker, a role she embraced with creativity and kindness.

Cleo was known for her hard-working nature and deep commitment to her family. She was an active member of the Baptist church, teaching children and participating in women's groups. Her passion for gardening and sewing was evident in her beautiful yard and the clothing she made for herself and her daughter. Her culinary skills were renowned, particularly her ability to incorporate fresh produce from her garden into family meals.

After Cleo and her husband retired and returned to South Carolina, she continued to care for family members and cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother. She was deeply involved in the Senior Adult Ministry at Lexington Baptist Church for over 40 years, where she formed lasting friendships.

Cleo's legacy is marked by her unwavering faith, her dedication to prayer, and her ministry of encouragement through letters and cards. Her life was a testament to her strong belief in the power of faith and community.

Cleo is survived by her daughter, Dr. Janice Daugherty Rawl, and her husband, Dr. Richard Rawl; her grandchildren, Dr. Rebecca Elaine Rawl and her husband, Dr. Krishan Kumar Mohindroo, Jr., David Christopher Rawl and his wife, Amy Carol Brothers, and Martha Grace Rawl; and her great-grandchildren, Olivia Grace Mohindroo, Thomas Joseph Rawl, Owen Preston Mohindroo, Carter Keaton Rawl, and Manuel Kumar Mohindroo. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, John William Daugherty, in 2020, along with her siblings, Lois C. Daniels, Alfred A. Crumpton, Christine C. Wiedemann, Julian Crumpton, and Samuel L. Crumpton

The family extends their gratitude to Rev. Dan Williams and the late Rev. Stuart Thompson of Lexington Baptist, as well as the caregivers from McLeod Home Care and Three Oaks Hospice, who provided support in her final days. Cleo's neighbors and friends were a source of joy and assistance throughout her life.

In her own words, Cleo often shared, "Always trust in the Lord, and pray that He will show you the path you are to take." Her life was a reflection of this guiding principle, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Lexington Baptist Church, 308 East Main Street, Lexington, SC 29072, with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place after the service at Lexington Memorial Cemetery, 1772-1782 West Main Street, Lexington, SC 29072.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Lexington Baptist Church Global Missions or Senior Adult Ministries- lexingtonbaptist.org; Harvest Hope Food Bank - harvesthope.org or Mission Lexington- missionlexingtonsc.org

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/cleo-daugherty-12748990

02/19/2026

Larry Wayne Ayer
November 29, 1948 – February 16, 2026

Larry Wayne Ayer, 77, of Gilbert, South Carolina passed away on February 16, 2026. He was born in Ehrhardt, SC on November 29, 1948 to the late Christobel Still and Linell E. Ayer.
Larry served his country with honor in the U.S. Navy and was a Vietnam Veteran. After his military service, he worked as a mechanic, enjoying the challenge of tinkering with various things from tractors and trucks to dirt bikes and curlers. Larry eventually retired from Michelin Tire, marking the end of a distinguished career.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie Ayer; his son, Joey Ayer (Mellisa); his cherished grandchild, Addisyn Ayer; and his sisters, Barbra Brickle, Janet A. Horne (Rex), and Cheryl Brown (Jim).

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Donna Hundley.

Visitation will be held at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel, located at 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC, on February 20, 2026, starting at 2:30 p.m., with the funeral service to follow at 3:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Lexington Memorial Cemetery, 1772-1782 West Main Street, Lexington, South Carolina, following the service.

Larry will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to his country, and his passion for mechanics.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/larry-ayer-12753130

02/17/2026

James Roscoe Finley
July 20, 1939 – February 15, 2026

James Roscoe Finley of Lexington, SC joined his savior and loving, predeceased family members and friends in heaven on February 15, 2026, at the age of 86 ½. (He counted the ½’s.) Born in Prosperity, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Cecil and Mae Bedenbaugh Finley.

Roscoe was raised Lutheran but attended Fellowship Baptist Church during his adult life. He was a 1957 graduate of University High School. He served in the US Marine Corps Reserve, and retired with 40 yrs service as a printer at Colonial Life Insurance (Unum). Roscoe worked very hard to provide for his family and was known for being generous and kind to all in need.

When Roscoe had free time, he could be found shopping for CDs and books at the U.S. #1 Metro Flea Market or taking care of his many dogs and cats. (Years ago, he had 6 fur babies at once!) When he wasn’t “collecting”, Roscoe could be found at concerts. If you knew Roscoe, you may have been fortunate to attend one of the several hundred concerts he so enjoyed. Roscoe also loved Clemson Football, and had the gift of gab.

Roscoe is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Dale Vassar Finley who he cared for for many years; son, Jimmy; daughters, Lynn Finley-Iacobelli (Pete) and Debbie Finley; grandchildren, Reese Wilson, Peter Iacobelli and Sophia Iacobelli; great grandson and namesake, Noah James Wilson; brother-in- law, Murray (Elaine) Vassar, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by those he held dear, brother, Jerry Finley (Kay); firstborn grandson and concert buddy, Jesse Gamble; son-in-law, Larry Wilson; father and mother-in-law, Murray and Beulah Vassar; brother-in-law, Curtis Vassar; and sisters-in-law, Judy Maddox and Maureen (Mike) Lynch.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/james-finley-12750116

02/17/2026

Marilyn S. Casey
August 2, 1938 – February 5, 2026

Marilyn S. Casey, cherished and kind-hearted, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on August 2, 1938, in Lexington, South Carolina, Marilyn was a resident of Warrenville, South Carolina. Throughout her life, she was known for being faithful, generous, loyal, thoughtful, and hard-working.

Marilyn had a distinguished career, having worked at Ben Satcher Ford and Satcher Ford in Aiken. She was also the co-owner and vice president of Kaney's Body Shop, where her dedication and work ethic were highly respected.

In her personal life, Marilyn was surrounded by a loving family. She is survived by her granddaughter, Susan Kaney, her brother, Richard Sease, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Leon Kasey(2008), her mother, Vergie Holley Sease, her father, Cecil M. Sease, her son, Ronald "Ronnie" Kaney, her daughter, Susan Rene Kaney, her brothers, Melvin Sease, Ralph Sease, Nelson Sease, Roger Sease, and her sister, Betty Wingard. Marilyn's partner, Joseph Boyd, was a significant part of her life, providing loving care and support.

Marilyn had a passion for reading and gardening. She enjoyed watching television, particularly game shows, and loved to cook and take care of her family. Her kindness extended beyond her family, as she would go out of her way to help her neighbors, leaving a legacy of thoughtfulness and generosity.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Joe Boyd for his loving care and support. Marilyn's generosity and loyalty will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A graveside service for Marilyn will be held 11:00 am Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Pisgah Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends after the service in the church.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/marilyn-casey-12748188

02/17/2026

Carolyn Faye Hatchell Edge
July 7, 1938 – February 14, 2026

Carolyn Faye Hatchell Edge, 87, of Lexington went to be with her Lord on February 14, 2026. She was born in Florence, South Carolina on July 7th, 1938. Carolyn was the eldest daughter of Aubrey and Rachel Hatchell.

She was an avid gardener, and had a green thumb for any flower she could get her hands on. She loved to feed and watch the birds and butterflies in her yard. She was an accomplished seamstress and loved dabbling in many different crafts. She was member of Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church and enjoyed any chance she had to hear a sermon and enjoyed serving on the flower committee. Carolyn excelled in the insurance field. Most of all, Carolyn loved her family.

She is survived by her daughters, Diana Harmon (Ed) and Camille Edge (Leslie), her granddaughter Ashley-Michelle Carrowan, and great-grandchildren, Macon and Emmaline who affectionately called her "Tractor". Sisters-in-law Lorraine Stroud, Virginia Prince and Carol Holmes and Brothers-in-law Earl and Wilber Edge and many nieces and nephews.

Carolyn felt blessed to have Ron and Laurie Held as neighbors for many years and considered them to be part of her chosen family. She also leaves behind her devoted caregivers; Lynn Roldan, Laura Lee Smith, Sandra Washington, and Joann McGee who always put their entire hearts into making her final years full of fun, laughter, and ice cream. The family can never thank y’all enough for the love you poured over Carolyn. The family also thanks Compass Hospice for their love and care in her final days.

She was predeceased by her husband, John Edge and her sister, Jan Corbett. Carolyn also had one special dog, Lady, waiting for her on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge.

Visitation for Ms. Edge will be at 1:00 pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church, 3050 Leaphart Road, West Columbia, SC 29169, followed by a 2:00 pm funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Mt. Hebron United Methodist Church.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/carolyn-edge-12748207

02/13/2026

Busy but fun day yesterday first in the morning at the The Palmetto Senior Show and then again in the evening sporting around at the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center . Connections were made and fun was had.

02/13/2026

Linda Gale Merritt
August 27, 1943 – February 10, 2026

Linda Gale Merritt, née Reeder, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on February 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 27, 1943, in Mullins, South Carolina, to Henry and Ileen Reeder.

On August 21, 1965, Linda married John “D**k” Merritt, her devoted husband and lifelong companion. Together they shared 53 wonderful years of marriage, building a Christ-centered home and raising their daughters, Angela and Tonya. Linda and D**k faithfully walked through life side by side until his passing in 2019. After several months of declining health, Linda has now joyfully reunited with him in her heavenly home.

Linda was a godly woman whose life reflected her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. She clung to His promises and served Him with joy and steadfast devotion. Even as her health declined, she was often heard saying, “I love my Jesus.” At Red Bank Baptist Church, she served as a nursery worker, Sunday school teacher, and GA leader when her daughters were younger. Most recently, she was a member of South Lexington Baptist Church, where she treasured fellowship through the Stitchers group.

Throughout her working years, Linda served at the Department of Transportation, BellSouth, and First Baptist Church of Columbia. While she faithfully fulfilled many roles throughout her life, her most treasured title was “Nana.” She adored her granddaughters, loved them deeply, and prayed over them faithfully.

Linda is survived by her daughters, Angela Merritt-Fuentes and Tonya Merritt Williamson; her sons-in-law, Victor Manuel Fuentes and John David Williamson; her granddaughters, Victoria Merritt Fuentes and Hailey Elizabeth Williamson; her sister-in-law, Shadie Merritt (Thompson); and extended family. Her legacy of faith, love, prayer, and quiet strength will continue to live on through each of them.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 15, at 2:00 p.m. at South Lexington Baptist Church, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3:00 p.m. Interment will immediately follow at Red Bank Baptist Church.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place I am going.” John 14:1–4

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/linda-merritt-12744310

02/13/2026

John Ray Gray
February 18, 1945 – February 8, 2026

John Ray Gray, 80, of West Columbia, South Carolina, departed this world on Sunday, February 8, 2026. While unexpected, he passed away in the company of his wife and friends and was blessed to make his transition quickly and without pain. He was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina on February 18, 1945 to Paul Allen Gray and Ella Victoria Gray (née Brockman).

The second of three brothers, John grew up and reached adulthood in the time defined by the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement and music it inspired, the shadow of the Cold War and the change of the millennium. It was a time where James Bond and cowboys ruled the world together and astronauts moved from cartoons and science fiction to reality. He graduated in 1964 from Spartanburg High School, where he met his best friend and love of his life, Joy (Juanita Joyce Kneece). He enrolled at the University of South Carolina and was drafted into the United States Army in 1966 during the height of the Vietnam War, at a time when he was 6 feet 2 inches tall, had a 28 inch waist, and weighed 145 pounds. Following basic training, he was stationed at Fort Myer in Virginia, where his skill with horses and physical build led him to serve in the Caisson Platoon of the Old Guard. Among other things, he participated in the ceremonial honors at Arlington National Cemetery for President Dwight D. Eisenhower. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1969, he returned to the University of South Carolina and completed his studies, earning a bachelor’s degree in business. He spent most of his working years in sales, as he loved connecting with others on a personal level and hated being in an office all day. John was an avid reader and a talented guitarist who loved 60s folk, classic country, bluegrass and Austin City Limits.

He was always ready with a joke or a laugh, and professed that every person should know how to swim, shoot a gun, bait a fishing hook and operate a stick shift car. He was a diehard Gamecock fan, sticking with them through thick and thin. When his daughter was a senior in high school, she mentioned at the dinner table one night that she was thinking of applying to “that other” university in the upstate. His response was to get up from the table, put his head inside a cabinet, and slam the cabinet door against his head several times (she went to USC). For years John and Joy spent fall weekends tailgating with friends and fellow fans outside Williams Brice stadium for every home game until they transitioned their tailgates to the house as big screen TVs and restroom lines became important considerations.

John’s most important priority was always his family and friends, to whom he was fiercely loyal and a steadfast champion. He spent many happy hours with his golfing buddies at Lexington Country Club, including his best friend Tom Page, who preceded John in passing 10 years to the day on February 8, 2016. He also cared deeply about those less fortunate than he, always reminding us how lucky we were to live in the United States of America and to have each other. He was a huge believer that family could fight each other, but no one else could fight his family without him acting in defense and the stories of him doing so are myriad and often shared.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years (Joy); his daughter Seann Tzouvelekas, son-in-law James and their daughter Sophia; his son Joshua, daughter-in-law Danielle and their children Sofia St. Marie (Emma), Adrian St. Marie (Alana) and Andre St. Marie; brother Alan, sister-in-law Becky and their children Letitia Uyak (Jeff and their sons Benjamin, Thomas and Paul); Ryan (Kendra and their daughter Sadie); and Lee Healy (Daniel and their daughters Anna and Ella); and sister-in-law Rosemary.

He was predeceased by his parents Paul and Victoria; parents-in-law James Jackson and Bright Etters Kneece; brother Richard; and sister-in-law Harriette Montgomery.

A memorial celebration of John’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church in West Columbia, with a visitation held immediately beforehand beginning at 9:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church, 1000 B Avenue, West Columbia, South Carolina, 29169.

May his memory be eternal.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/john-gray-12740947

02/13/2026

Kathie C. Cashion
November 15, 1946 – February 7, 2026

Kathie C. Cashion, 79, went to be with the Lord on February 7, 2026, at Heritage at Lowman in White Rock, SC.

Born in Eufaula, AL, Kathie was a long-time resident of Columbia, SC, for over fifty years. She was predeceased by her parents, Archie and Dorothy Clark, and her beloved husband, E.L. (Buddy) Cashion, Jr.

She is survived by her two daughters, Hillarie Vaughan (Buck) of Lexington, SC, and Callie Huneycutt (Chris) of Albemarle, NC; and her cherished grandchildren: Parker Huneycutt, Cole Carter, Shelbie Vaughan, Claire Carter, and Kinley Huneycutt.

A devoted member of Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church, Kathie shared her talents in the choir, participated in Bible studies, and loved helping with Vacation Bible School. In earlier years, she was an active member of the Lexington-Irmo Women’s Club. An avid bird enthusiast, Kathie also found great joy in playing bridge, entertaining friends, and spending time with her grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and family at 2:00 PM, Sunday, February 15th, at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home – Lexington Chapel, 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072. A service will follow at 2:30 PM, with visitation continuing after the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church (https://sopc.net/giving/) or Carolina Wildlife (https://carolinawildlife.org/donate/), both located in Columbia, SC.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/kathie-cashion-12739717

02/13/2026

Elizabeth Wall Lawrence
October 24, 1934 – February 7, 2026

LAWRENCE, Elizabeth W., 91, died February 7, 2026, in Lexington, SC. Born in Spartanburg, SC, she graduated from Duncan High School, Mars Hill College, and Furman University. She married William B. Lawrence, Jr, and they had three children: Mary Elizabeth Lawrence, William B. Lawrence, III (Rhonda), of Lexington, and Reid D. Hansen (Don) of Hilton Head Island. She taught elementary school in Greenville, Newberry, and Lexington Counties, retiring from Lexington Elementary School in 1990. For over 50 years, she was an active member of McGregor Presbyterian Church. Food was Lib’s love language, and it was a joy for her to invite others to join her for Sunday dinner.

In addition to her children, Mrs. Lawrence is survived by five granddaughters: Elizabeth D. Cohen (David), Mary Weston Lawrence, Lillian Lawrence, Grace Davis, and Claire Davis; sister-in-law Marie-Claude Wall, and four nephews.

A funeral service will be held Friday, February 13, at 11:00 a.m. at McGregor Presbyterian Church. The family will greet friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Presbyterian Communities of SC (Memo: Lexington, Charitable Care) or SC ETV Endowment.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/lexington-sc/elizabeth-lawrence-12739940

02/12/2026

Black funeral traditions blend cultural and historical influences, offering a unique way to mourn and heal. With vibrant music, heartfelt prayers, and communal gatherings, these customs celebrate love, hope, and faith while strengthening family and community bonds.

Traditions connect our past with our present, provide a source for a common identity and give us a foundation for growth. For many Black Americans, funeral traditions are an important link to history and a meaningful path to mourning, celebrating and healing after the loss of a loved one.