S.K. Padgett

Mr. Sammie Kermit Padgett, Jr., affectionately known to everyone as “S.K.”, 86, of Ruffin, entered into rest Saturday morning, July 22, 2023, at his residence.

Born February 20, 1937, in Colleton County, he was a son of the late Sammie Kermit Padgett, Sr. and Carolyn Carter Padgett.  He served his country faithfully in the United States Navy, retiring with over 20 years of service.  S.K. was the owner and operator of Azalea Patch Nursery, was responsible for a great deal of local landscape designs.

S.K. came to life of sobriety over 40 years ago.  Since then, he devoted his life to helping others by leading them through the steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, being there for them when needed, praying for and with them daily.  He was also a member of Bells Masonic Lodge, No. 236, where he was twice Past Master.   He was an avid golfer and frequently played at Penny Branch Golf Club in Furman.

Surviving are: his wife of 66 years, Betty Jean Aiken Padgett of Ruffin; daughters, Sheila Padgett Smoak and her husband J.D. of Ruffin, and Sharon Kay and her husband of Lexington; brother, Dale Padgett and his wife Diane of Walterboro; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cindy Padgett Wallace; sisters, Cheryl DuBoise and Ardis Linder; and brothers, Carroll Jean Padgett, Marshall Padgett, and Charles Padgett.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to: FoCCAS (Friends of the Colleton County Animal Shelter), 33 Poor Farm Road, Walterboro, SC 29488; or to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Florida 33607.

Graveside funeral services will be held 10 o’clock, Monday morning, July 24, 2023, at Tabernacle Cemetery, Smoaks.

ARRANGEMENTS BY: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408.  Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.