Jack Bethea

Jack Bethea, 88, of Bishopville, SC, husband of the late Rose Mary Dickson Bethea died Friday evening, October 15, 2010. He was born in Latta, SC and grew up in Darlington County. Mr. Bethea was a graduate of Hartsville High School and Clemson College, where he received a degree in Agricultural Engineering. He was a long time member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church of Bishopville, SC. Mr. Bethea's enjoyed a very diversified career and retired from Carolina Power and Light in 1987. He also worked tirelessly for his community. He was the founder of the Lee County Cotton Pickin' Festival and instrumental in the revitalization of the Bishopville Opera House. He is survived by his son, John Bethea; two grandsons, Nathaniel Quick and Matthew Bethea; a daughter-in-law, Nancie Quick, all of Greenville, SC; and a sister, Eva Kleckley, of Ridgeland, SC. A Memorial Service for Mr. Bethea will be held 2:00pm, Monday, October 18, 2010, at Bells United Methodist Church, Abbeville, SC with the Rev. Leon Thompson officiating. Due to Mr. Bethea's love and dedication for the Bishopville Opera House, in lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to the Lee County Arts Council Building Fund, PO Box 714, Bishopville, SC 29010. A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com. HARRIS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES is assisting the Bethea family.