News Summary
The Union community is mourning the loss of two beloved residents, Betty Lou Stapleton and Owen Lee Gregory. Betty, aged 93, was a dedicated member of her church and community, while Owen, at just 19, was known for his spirited personality and connections with friends and family. Both will be remembered for their kindness and contributions to the community as memorial services are planned.
Union, South Carolina – Community Mourns the Loss of Two Residents
Union residents are grieving the loss of two valued members of their community, Betty Lou Stapleton and Owen Lee Gregory, who both recently passed away.
Betty Lou Stapleton
Betty Lou Stapleton, aged 93, passed away on June 29, 2025, at Langston Square Assisted Living, surrounded by her family. She was the widow of Olin Stapleton, and her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Born on February 16, 1932, in Union, South Carolina, Betty was the daughter of the late Bill Coleman and Lula Mae Mitchell Coleman. She spent her career at Collins and Aikman Hosiery Mill before retiring. A strong member of the community, she was actively involved with Whitmire First Baptist Church.
Betty is survived by her three sons: Robert Stapleton (Cathy) of Whitmire, Michael Stapleton (Lynne) of Murrells Inlet, and John Stapleton (Chera) of Union. She also leaves behind three grandchildren—Christopher R. Stapleton (Natalie), Christopher A. Stapleton (Eva), and Brandon Stapleton—and six great-grandchildren: Aughtry, Arlynn, Cooper, Fendley Stapleton, Karson Stapleton, and Jacob Daniel.
Betty was preceded in death by her brother, Walter Coleman, along with her grandson, Matt Stapleton. The graveside services for Betty will take place at Whitmire Cemetery on July 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM, officiated by Rev. Shannon Long. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to Langston Square Assisted Living, Crescent Hospice, or Whitmire First Baptist Church. Condolences can be expressed online at www.grayfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Gray Funeral Home of Whitmire.
Owen Lee Gregory
Owen Lee Gregory, aged 19, passed away on June 7, 2025. A resident of 3609 Lockhart Highway in Union, Owen was born on November 4, 2005, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He was the son of Jimmy Gregory and Rhonda McGowan Gregory and was known for his spirited approach to life.
Owen attended Union County High School and worked with his father and brothers at TCB Builders, their family construction business. He was actively involved in his community, and a member of Brown’s Creek Baptist Church. He enjoyed spending time with friends and riding alongside his brothers, creating cherished memories.
Owen is survived by his three brothers: Tyler, Colby (Ellie), and Brett Gregory (Emily), along with two uncles, Ronnie Gregory and Jason McGowan, and numerous cousins. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Betty McGowan and Norman Emler, paternal grandparents, Bruce and Docia Gregory, and an uncle, Dennis “BB” Gregory.
A celebration of Owen’s life will take place at Brown’s Creek Baptist Church on June 12, 2025, at 4:30 PM, conducted by Rev. Dr. Shawn Head. Following the service, burial will be at the church cemetery with active pallbearers including his brothers and friends Ayden Lancaster, Huston Ward, and Levi Edwards. The family will receive friends on June 11, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at S.R. Holcombe Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Brown’s Creek Baptist Church.
Community Reflection
The passing of both Betty Lou Stapleton and Owen Lee Gregory has touched their families and the greater Union community deeply. As friends and family come together to honor their memories, the shared stories of their kindness and dedication to others will help keep their legacies alive.
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Additional Resources
- Owen Gregory Obituary – Holcombe Funeral Homes
- Gus Diamaduros Obituary – Legacy
- Bryson Kershaw Obituary – Post and Courier
- Beverly Jordan Obituary – Holcombe Funeral Homes
- Steve Freeman Obituary – Legacy
- Wikipedia: Union, South Carolina
- Google Search: community mourning loss
- Google Scholar: community obituaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: obituary
- Google News: funeral services South Carolina
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