Walter Lanford, Jr.

Walter Gates Lanford, Jr., 85, of 3215 Keatly St., Spartanburg, SC, son of the late Walter Gates Lanford, Sr., and Rosalie Rampley Lanford, passed from this earthly home to dwell in his heavenly home on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Walker Lanford; daughters, Terrilee (Phil) Miller of Columbia, SC, Cynthia (Jimmy) Tobias of Spartanburg, SC; son, Tom (Donna) Lanford of Spartanburg, SC; grandchildren, Matt (Katherine) Brune of Atlanta, GA, Caitlin Miller of Charleston, SC, Casey (Jason) Parker of Beaufort, SC, Toby (Casandra) Tobias, Del Tobias, Myda Tobias, Crystal Tobias, Pablo Tobias, and Paula Tobias, all of Spartanburg, SC; three great-grandchildren, Adri Diaz, Zoe Parker, and Hannah Brune; a brother, John (Irene) Lanford; aunt, Irene Rampley; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. He was predeceased by a daughter, Linda Lanford. Gates graduated from Spartanburg High School and attended Spartanburg Methodist College. He served in the U. S. Navy for three years during World War II - most of the time in the South Pacific. After his discharge, he was employed at Amoco Oil Company and served as superintendent of the Amoco Pipeline Terminal until his retirement. Gates was also very active in youth programs in Spartanburg, coaching Little League and Pony League baseball for years. A member of St. Luke United Methodist Church, he held various positions on the Administrative Board and sang for many years in the choir. The family will receive friends 2:00-3:15 PM Friday, January 20, 2012 in the Family Life Center of St. Luke United Methodist Church, 105 McKay Avenue, Spartanburg, SC. A celebration of the life of Walter Gates will follow at 3:30 PM, in the church sanctuary, conducted by the Rev. Dr. Noble Miller. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home, 686 Jeff Davis Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29303; or the charity of one's choice. The family is at their respective homes. Floyd's North Church Street Chapel To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Walter Gates Lanford, Jr. please visit our Sympathy Store.