Richard Everett McAlhany's Obituary
Richard Everett McAlhany, age 88, passed away peacefully at his home on September 24, 2025. Richard was born inBranchville, SC to the late Joe G. W. and Rachel Victoria (Vicki) McAlhany on February 3, 1937. He graduated from Branchville High and joined the Army, then completed his service years with the Army Reserves.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Harbeson of 67 years of marriage and their children, Patsy (George) Davis of Aiken, Everett (Sherri) McAlhany of Reevesville, Wade (Dawn) McAlhany of Cope, and Kelvin (Theresa) McAlhany of Rowesville and son-in-law, Scot Wendelken of Pickens. He is also survived by his two sisters Beverly Berry of Branchvilleand Nancy Harbeson of Akron, Ohio. He will be forever cherished and remembered by his 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Pennie M. Wendelken,granddaughter Rebecca McAlhany, sisters Catherine Connelly, VirginiaPreacher, Molly Holman and brothers Norman McAlhaney and Joseph O.McAlhany.
As an active member of Beulah Baptist Church, Richard served as deacon, trustee, and official greeter of the church. He was known for his inventive ways of solving carpentry problems around the church and at home. Throughout his life he farmed with his parents and raised a variety of farm animals during his lifetime. Richard retired from Giant Portland Cement Company in Harleyville, SC where he was a heavy equipment operator. He enjoyed helping his family with their home and farm projects. Richard also enjoyed dove and quail hunting with his family.
Visitation for Richard will be Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Ott Funeral Home in Branchville from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. The funeral service will be held 2 pm, Monday September 29, 2025 at Beulah Baptist Church 5502 Wire Rd. Branchville. Burial will follow at the McAlhany Cemetery on Lynwest Ct off of Wire Rd. near Branchville. Pallbearers will be family members.
A special thank you to the neighbors and friends who helped and visited throughout the years. Thank you to Edisto Hospice nurses and staff, especially Neeley and Tabitha for all their support. Daily support for Richard was provided by dedicated health care workers. These ladies, Lillian, Cynthia, and Diane were essential in caring for him in his days of sickness.A special thank you to caregivers Beverly and Kayla who took care of Richard and supported the family during this time of loss.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.
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