Pee Dee Homegoing Services This WeeK

The Governor of South Carolina advises to limit public gatherings to 50 guests or less to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC carefully considered the recommendation and ask additional guests please participate via live-streaming if it is authorized by the family.

Obituary for Harris Johnson

A Private Funeral Service for Mrs. Harris Ellise Lewis Johnson was conducted Saturday, January 2, 2021 at J. O. & Annette Smith Memorial Chapel, 307 South Johns Street, Florence, South Carolina. Interment followed in Sunset Memory Gardens directed by Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC.

Mrs. Harris Ellise Lewis “Tug” Johnson was born on April 28, 1932 in Pamplico, South Carolina. She departed this earthly life on Thursday, December 24, 2020.

“Tug” as she was affectionately called by family and those who knew her, attended Public Schools in Florence County to include Wilson High School.

She was employed with Henry Timrod Elementary School for over 30 years until her retirement as a Culinary Technician. She was also an entrepreneur at Florence Flea Market for many years as a Baker, selling cakes and pies.

Mrs. Johnson, a faithful member, attended Saint Matthews Church of God in Christ Jesus, Apostolic in Florence, South Carolina, until her health declined. She and her late husband, Jerome Johnson of 52 years, joined the Church in 1967.

In addition to her parents, Tug was preceded in death by her husband; and three sons, Michael Muldrow, Curtis Muldrow, and Oscar Gregg.

Mrs. Harris Ellise Lewis Johnson will always be remembered for her love of planting flowers, growing vegetables, and just walking around in her yard, enjoying the beautification of God’s work. We will always cherish memories of the scrumptious cakes and pies she baked and her joyful spirit.

Tug leaves to cherish her precious memories: four sons, Edward (Sandra) Johnson, Frederick Johnson, Roy (Thelma) Johnson, Jr., and Roscoe (Marion) Muldrow; one daughter, Mary Muldrow Riley, who served diligently as caregiver; thirty-three grandchildren; four sisters, Renetta Gillard, Cora Lee Henry, Corentha Frierson, and Roscina Goodman; and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Please keep the family of Mrs. Harris Johnson in your thoughts and prayers.

Obituary for Fernando Ford

A Private Funeral Service for Mr. Fernando McCall Ford was conducted 2:00 PM Sunday, December 27. 2020 at J. O. & Annette Smith Memorial Chapel, 307 South Johns Street, Florence, South Carolina. Interment followed in North View Cemetery, directed by Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC.

Mr. Fernando McCall Ford was born in Florence County on December 30, 1975 to the late Janie Marie Davis-Ford and McCall Ford. He departed this earthly life on Friday, December 18, 2020 at McLeod Regional Medical Center.

Fernando McCall Ford better known to family as “Dominique” and friends as Mr. 413, the Mayor Nando will always be remembered as a fun-loving person with a heart of gold. He was always there for those he loved and stood up for those who needed help. He was a shoulder to lean on when you wanted to talk, and had mad love for the kids, that brought out the best in him.

Fernando was preceded in death by his mother, Janie Marie Davis-Ford; and grandfather, Marion Ford.

Fernando leaves to cherish his precious memories: a devoted daughter, Chyna King of Florence, South Carolina; four grandsons, Tylan King, Messiah King, Ma’khi King, and Tahj King all of Florence, South Carolina; his grandmother, Priscilla Ford; three brothers, Sheldon Orlando Davos, Justin Ford, and Nicholas Ford; three sisters, Raven (John) Mills of Florence, South Carolina, Chelsea Dion Ford, and Kamonica McWhite both of Columbia, South Carolina; four uncles, Billy Ford and Steve Ford both of Florence, South Carolina, Earl Ford of Toledo, Ohio, and Chuffy Ford of Columbia, South Carolina; four aunts, Frenchi (Stanley) King of Goose Creek, South Carolina, Loria Johnson and Rosa Ford both of Florence, South Carolina, and Sylvia Wilson of Timmonsville, South Carolina; a special sister-in-law, Veronica Williams of Florence, South Carolina; a special friend, Christy Harrison of Florence, South Carolina; and a host of nephews, nieces, other relatives, and friends.

Please keep the family of Fernando McCall Ford in your thoughts and prayers.

Obituary for Bertha Conner

A Private Funeral Service for Mrs. Bertha A. Conner was conducted Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at J. O. & Annette Smith Memorial Chapel, 307 South Johns Street, Florence, South Carolina. Interment followed at Sunset Memory Gardens, directed by Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC.

Sister Bertha Albert Conner, 100 was born February 25, 1920 in Florence, South Carolina. She was the daughter of the late Maxie and Belva Albert. “Annie Dug” as she was affectionately called by her nieces and nephews departed this life, Thursday, December 17, 2020 at her residence after an illness.

Sister Bertha attended the Public Schools of Florence County. She worked at Camelia Motel for 45 plus years.

At an early age, Sister Bertha joined Bower’s Chapel United Methodist Church until her health declined. She was the oldest member of the Church, so therefore Pastors past and present would still come to her home to fellowship with her.

Sister Bertha A. Conner was married to the late Albert Conner, Sr. and was blessed with ten children out of this union.

Sister Bertha was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two children, Charlie Dargan and Alma J. Muldrow; three sisters, Ethel A. Britton, Alma A. Durant, and Mary Anderson; and two brothers, Willie Albert and Maxie Albert.

Sister Bertha leaves to cherish her precious memories: four daughters, Frances (Willie) Riley of Florence, South Carolina, Mary (Ron) Muller of Boise, Idaho, Sallie C. Parks and Denise (Reverend Maurice) Jackson both of Florence, South Carolina; four sons, James Dargan, Elder David (Julie) Dargan, and Edward Lee Conner all of Florence, South Carolina and Albert (Juanita) Conner, Jr. of Atlanta, Georgia; a special granddaughter and caregiver, Sharon Dargan; 20 grandchildren; 70 great grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Please keep the family of Bertha Conner in your thoughts and prayers.

Obituary for Rev. John (Johnny) Gainey

Rev. John (Johnny) Gainey was born on November 11, 1942, Son of Mr. and Mrs. Rev. William Edward and Lillie Mae (Chapmon) Gainey. He departed this earthly life on Tuesday afternoon, December 29, 2020, at Mcleod Regional Medical Center after an illness.

“Johnny” as he was affectionately called by his loved ones was born in Pamplico, SC. He was educated in the public schools of Florence County and was a graduate of Wilson High School. He worked for La-Z-Boy for over 30 years until his retirement.

John was a lifelong member and one of the founding pastors of the Church of Christ located in Timmonsville, SC where he served faithfully until his passing.

On October 7, 1961, he was united in holy matrimony to Gwendolyn Ann James. Through this union, they were blessed with eight beautiful kids.

John loved attending church, visiting family & friends, spending long periods of time outdoors, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents: William & Lillie Mae Gainey, his wife Gwendolyn Ann James Gainey his siblings: William Gainey, and Gladys Toney, and his (daughter) Beverly Peoples.

Left to cherish his memories are his children: Gregory (Nellie) Gainey, Dietrich (Lee) Harrison of Hampton, VA; Loutricia (James) Goodson, John (Uhura) Gainey, Culver Lee (Yolanda) Gainey of Fredericksburg, VA, Reginald Gainey, and Gwendolyn Willis; 20 grandchildren, Natisha (Quincy) Singletary, Crystal Pendergrass, Brian (Nicole), Ryan, and Bree Goodson, Chanta, and Shalandra Willis, Autia, Nekka, Chloe, Cameron, Colten, Melanie, Mallorie, Myleiah, Mercedes, Samantha, Ahriel, Sheranda, and Jalin Gainey; twenty-six great-grandchildren; His beloved siblings, Joan Bull, Frances Wilson, Carl E. Gainey, Ruby (Charlie) Bishop, Barbara McDaniel, Cynthia (Maxilee) Brown, Elder Shirley Ham, Debra Graham and Lydia (Jimmy) Bruce; three brothers in law; Nelson T. (Nancy) James, Hayward James of Effingham, Reverend Alray (Modestine) Samuel of Florence, one sister in law; Alonia L. James of Riverdale, MD, special friends, Ned (Anne) Green; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Obituary for Tyrone Augustus Hicks

Tyrone Augustus Hicks was born on September 9, 1956. He was one of six children born to Augustus Hicks (deceased) and Marlene Hicks in Bronx, New York. He graduated from William Howard Taft High School, in the Bronx, and soon after joined the United States Navy. Mr. Hicks bravely served his country during the Vietnam War and received an honorable discharge.

Tyrone was skilled at electrical work, plumbing, and general home improvement. His meticulous workmanship benefited many people and he willingly served those in need. Tyrone could accomplish anything he set his mind to do. His determination and hard-working ethics were forces to reckon with. Tyrone also worked as a tractor-trailer driver. This was a job he loved, as it afforded him the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and time for reflection. Anyone who knew Mr. Hicks could attest to the fact that he loved a good conversation.

Tyrone was also an avid bowler. He was active in various leagues including The Veteran’s Bowling League, Fun Bowling League, The Mighty Panthers, and The Senior Classic League in South Carolina, combining a beloved hobby with his affinity for laughing and a good time.

Mr. Hicks did not just love talking and joking with people. He was a giver. Tyrone stood over six feet tall and had just as huge a heart. Tyrone always wanted to assist, no matter the need. His desire to help and serve is evident in the countless people helped and the organizations he was affiliated with. Tyrone was a Master Mason of Gate City Lodge 276 in South Carolina and held positions of Junior Warden, Senior Warden, Junior Deacon, and Senior Deacon. Tyrone was a member of the Distinguish 100 Black Men. He had a passion for sharing his time with fellow veterans, as he was a member of Veterans Helping Veterans, and American Legion Charity 228. With a strong will and desire, Tyrone showed us, as a family, ‘We can Accomplish Anything’.

Tyrone enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. In the company of others, you could hear his infectious laugh, listen to him telling countless stories, and see his bright smile. He loved seeing smiles on the faces of his loved ones. Mr. Hicks was selfless and left a tremendous impact on those he came in contact with.

In November of 2020, Tyrone Hicks became ill. Upon being hospitalized, he fought long and hard…true Tyrone style. However, on December 26th, 2020 he succumbed to his illness. He was preceded in death by his Father Agustus Hicks, Sister Sherrie Hicks, Grandfather: Andrew Robinson, Grandmother: Bessie Robinson, Great Grandfather: John Robinson, Great Grandmother: Pearl Robinson, Great Grandfather: John Combs, and Great Grandmother: Nellie Combs.

Tyrone will be dearly missed, as he leaves behind his: Mother Marlene Hicks (Living) and Father Agustus Hicks (Deceased). Tyrone is survived by his three children Takisha Hicks-Hinkson, Antonio Hicks, and Travis Jordan. Nicole Hicks Wife of Antonio Hicks, Christopher Hinkson Husband of Takisha Hicks-Hinkson, and Jalisa Jordan Wife of Travis Jordan. Grandchildren Azure’ Hinkson, Ashante’ Hinkson, and Christopher Hinkson, Jr. Olivia Hicks, Xavier Hicks, Quinn Hicks, Tyques Jordan, Sakura Jordan, Imani Crawford, Tramaine Jordan, Tatiana Jordan, Aziah Givens, Jairus Givens. Siblings Maurice Hicks, Andrew Hicks, Sr., Melinda Hicks, Bonita Johnson Hicks, and Brother Eric Hicks. Uncle’s Andrew Robinson and Children, Franz Robinson and Children, and Aunt Denise Robinson. A host of Nieces: Chrishay Hicks, Mariah Hicks, Alicia M. Greene, Chavonne Johnson, and children. Nephews: Dante Johnson and children, Andrew Hicks, Jr. and Children, Justin Hicks, Christian Hicks, Milan Hicks. Extended Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.

Tyrone’s heart and devotion to his family were that of a Protector and Provider growing up and he loved all of you dearly!

As we celebrate the many accomplishments of our beloved Son, Father, Big Brother, Uncle, Family Member, and dear, dear friend to many, we shall honor and remember the life and times of a courageous gentleman. Over the course of Tyrone's life, he had a tumultuous time amongst us, but ‘God Had a Plan’. This courageous father built a life filled with community and love.

Obituary for Leon Hamiliton

Leon Hamilton went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 26th, 2020 at McLeod Regional Medical Center after an illness.

Leland was raised in Alvin, SC by his uncle Fennick Lampkin and his wife Ineather. He was two years old when his mother died.

Leland resided in Baltimore, MD for two years where he met his wife Lexie Hamilton. They both moved to Florence, SC where they got married and were blessed with four children. His wife Lexie Hamilton and daughter Asha Nichelle Hamilton Douglas preceded him in death.

When Leland was a boy, he went to Bethlehem Baptist Church where he was baptized by William Manigault.

Leland’s favorite foods were bologna, bananas, and biscuits. His hobbies were traveling, visiting his family, and fishing. Most of all Leland loved his job driving trucks, which he did for 50+years.

Leland was a very caring and loving person who would do anything for his family. He was a very proud man who will truly be missed.

Left to cherish his loving precious memories include one daughter; Tonya Y. Hamilton (Randy Johnson), two sons; Davin Leon Hamilton and Derek T. Hamilton, five grandchildren; Khira A. Williams, Cornelious (Tigger) Douglas, Jr., Khari T. Johnson, and Demira N. Hamilton all of Florence, SC, one sister; Lucretia Chandler of Delaware, two brothers; Mannie Green of Philadelphia and Clifton Green of Baltimore, MD, one sister in law; Jannie B. Singletary of Florence, SC, special nephew Frankie James of Baltimore, MD and a host of loved ones and friends.