George "Rufus" Padgett made his Heavenly transition early Friday morning, December 12 at the
Hospice House of the Piedmont in Greenwood, with his beloved wife of 58 years by his side. Born August 27, 1943 in Lexington, SC, Rufus was the son of Curtis H. Padgett and Rosa Leila Matthews Padgett.
Rufus proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict. He retired from Cardinal Health (formerly Parke Davis) in 2006. Rufus was a faithful member of South Greenwood Pentecostal Holiness Church for more than 45 years, where he also served as a church elder for many years.
Rufus was adored by all who knew him and was known for his gentle demeanor, his meekness, and his love for everyone. His favorite pastime was golfing with buddies, and he was an avid South Carolina Gamecock fan. He treasured his Lord and his family above all. He cherished his favorite title, "Grandaddy".
Rufus is survived by his wife, Patricia Padgett, his son Charles "Chuck" Padgett, his daughter, Marcia McCary (Jason), his granddaughter, Reagan Wall (Joshua), and a grandson, Gabriel McCary (Peyton Cheshire).
Rufus is preceded in death by siblings: C.H. Padgett, Hoyt Padgett, Sandra Cochran, Roy Padgett. Surviving siblings are Dock (Lois) Padgett, Jerry Padgett, Joyce Easler, and a sister-in-law Deborah Padgett.
A Celebration of Life service will be at the South Greenwood Pentecostal Holiness on Monday, December 15 at 2:00pm. Visitation will begin at 12:00pm on Monday prior to the service. The service will be officiated by Bishop Ray Boggs, Dr. Terry Bailey, and Rev. Jason McCary. A graveside service will follow at Oakbrook Memorial Park accompanied by Rev. Bob Still and Rev. Barry Butler.
Pallbearers will be Wayne Quarles, Shannon Padgett, Tim Still, Jim Still, Michael Quarles, Ray Edwards, Rickey White, Wesley Padgett, Tony Padgett and Mark McDowell.
Honorary escort will be the members of South Greenwood Pentecostal Holiness Church.
Memorials may be made to the South Greenwood PHC building fund, 17 First Street, Greenwood, SC 29646 or Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont, 408 W Alexander Drive, Greenwood, SC 29646.