Herbert M Witherspoon's Obituary
Herbert "Herbie" Michael Witherspoon, 71, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 18th surrounded by family. He was born on September 25, 1953, in Sumter, South Carolina, and grew up in Crosswell Home for Children.
Herbie lived a life marked by dedication, love, and a tireless work ethic that touched the lives of all who knew him. He spent his life working hard to provide for his family and serve his community. He was known for going above and beyond, helping neighbors and always being there when someone needed a hand. One of his greatest joys was being outdoors. In his retirement years from a successful sales and management career (since he would never sit and just be retired) he loved nothing more than mowing the lawn, not just at his own home, but for many neighbors around town. His efforts kept the community looking beautiful and his presence will be deeply missed on those summer days spent tending to the grass and riding on the lawn mower. He was especially proud of maintaining the lawn for many years at Branchville Christian Church, where he was a member for over 35 years; no stray blade of grass went unnoticed.
Herbie had a special fondness for Christmas. For years, he delighted in bringing joy to others by dressing up as Santa Claus, a role he took on with great pride. His front yard became a winter wonderland each December, adorned with a colorful display of Christmas inflatables that brought smiles to all who passed by. His festive spirit and generous heart made Christmas a season to remember for many in town.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Terry, and his children, Caitlyn Frayard (Travis), Chris Carter (Lori), Courtney Beeks (Ethan), Ashleigh Staley, and Elizabeth (Joshua) Johnson. He is also survived by many grandchildren, Autumn and Hunter Carter, Carter and Ayden Beeks, Joseph and Matthew Staley, Samuel Johnson, Ellis and Avery Frayard, great-grandchildren, Oaklynn and Adalynn Ayer and Raelynn Carter, and siblings John (Linda) Witherspoon, Olga Ann Gallo, Barbara Beck, Vickie Gomez, and James Bryant, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude Miller Witherspoon and Fannie Melva Hodge of Sumter, in-laws, D. B. and Carol Williams of Branchville, and many siblings.
Herbie's warmth, humor, and selflessness will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of hard work, kindness, and Christmas cheer will live on in all of us.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, January 24, 2025, at the Branchville Christian Church with Pastor Justin Cook officiating. Visitation will be held the previous evening, Thursday, January 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Ott Funeral Home.
Pallbearers are Chris and Hunter Carter, Ethan and Carter Beeks, Travis Frayard, John and Chris Witherspoon, and Kadden Irick.
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