Spartanburg, SC, August 22, 2025
News Summary
The Spartanburg community reflects on the recent loss of several prominent local figures who made significant contributions across various sectors. From business leaders to educators, their legacies are remembered fondly by family, friends, and community members. Tributes pour in as residents express their shared sorrow, honoring the values of service and commitment these individuals embodied. The community is encouraged to contribute to local charities in their memory, highlighting the spirit of giving that they represented.
Spartanburg, SC has come together to mourn the loss of several prominent local figures over the past week, reflecting on their contributions and legacies within the community.
Remembering Anthony Joseph “Tony” Raffo
Anthony Joseph “Tony” Raffo, age 82, passed away on August 20, 2025. Tony was born on November 7, 1942, in Vineland, NJ, and spent 60 years living in South Carolina. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1960 and earned a degree from The Citadel in 1964. Tony married his wife, Mary Ellen, in 1965 in Beaufort, SC.
His professional career began with a brief stint teaching chemistry and science at the High School of Charleston. He later worked at Burlington Industries for six years before joining Milliken & Co. in 1972, where he excelled in roles ranging from manufacturing and marketing to Corporate V.P. of Human Resources and Division President of the Automotive and Elastic Fabric Division.
In 1995, Tony founded Home Express, Inc., a Rent to Own company that grew to include 27 locations by 2004 when it was sold to Aaron’s, providing employment for 160 individuals. He continued to impact the community by founding RIMS USA in 2004, which employs nearly 300 people across the Southeast. Tony is survived by his wife, two sons, and five grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial is set for August 25, 2025, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, with a celebration of life to follow at the Piedmont Club. Contributions in Tony’s memory can be made to Mobile Meals of Spartanburg.
Honoring Dr. Gary Ray Smiley
Dr. Gary Ray Smiley, age 88, died on August 19, 2025. He was born on September 13, 1936, and attended Spartanburg High School before graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Phi Beta Kappa degree in 1958. After his dental degree in 1961 and service in the U.S. Air Force, he specialized in orthodontics and joined the UNC School of Dentistry faculty.
Dr. Smiley established a private orthodontics practice in Spartanburg in 1975 and continued until his retirement in 2005. He is survived by his wife, children, and involved family. Graveside services were held on August 21, 2025, at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be made to Temple B’nai Israel or Healthy Smiles of Spartanburg.
Remembering Tanya Keith Aldridge
Tanya Keith Aldridge, age 72, passed away on August 15, 2025. Born at Shaw Airforce Base in Sumter, SC, she graduated from Spartanburg Methodist College with an associate’s degree in science. Tanya had a significant law enforcement career with the Spartanburg City Police Department and the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, retiring as a Deputy Sheriff.
She is survived by two sons, grandchildren, a great-grandchild, and her sisters. The family remembers her as a dedicated public servant and loving family member.
Tribute to Kenneth Ray Crenshaw
Kenneth Ray Crenshaw, age 82, of Inman, SC, passed away on August 20, 2025. Born on May 23, 1943, Kenneth graduated from Spartanburg High School and served in the South Carolina Army National Guard for over 30 years as a Master Sergeant. Following his military career, he worked at Spartanburg Methodist College as the Head of Housekeeping.
Kenneth was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughters. His contributions to both his family and community are fondly remembered by those close to him.
Remembering Mary Johnson Quinn
Mary Johnson “Myrt” Quinn, who passed away on August 19, 2025, was known for her engagement with Converse Baptist Church, participating actively in various church activities. She is survived by her children and grandchildren, who cherish her memory. A funeral service is scheduled for August 22, 2025, at Floyd’s Greenlawn Chapel.
Community Response
The collective tears shared by residents of Spartanburg serve as a testament to the lives these individuals lived and the impact they had on their families and the community. Each of them contributed in unique ways, shaping the values of service, commitment, and community involvement that define Spartanburg today.
Contributions to Local Charities
In light of these losses, many community members are encouraged to make contributions to local charities to honor the legacies of these lost loved ones, reflecting the spirit of giving and community that these individuals embodied.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What date did Tony Raffo pass away?
Tony Raffo passed away on August 20, 2025.
Where will Dr. Gary Ray Smiley’s memorial donations be directed?
Memorial donations may be made to Temple B’nai Israel or Healthy Smiles of Spartanburg.
What was Tanya Keith Aldridge’s profession?
Tanya Keith Aldridge was a law enforcement officer who retired as a Deputy Sheriff.
What contributions did Kenneth Ray Crenshaw make to his local church?
Kenneth Ray Crenshaw served as a Deacon and Adult Sunday School teacher at Calvary Baptist Church.
Key Features Summary
| Name | Age | Date of Passing | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tony Raffo | 82 | August 20, 2025 | Founder of Home Express, Inc.; community business leader |
| Dr. Gary Ray Smiley | 88 | August 19, 2025 | Orthodontist; educator; published author |
| Tanya Keith Aldridge | 72 | August 15, 2025 | Law enforcement officer |
| Kenneth Ray Crenshaw | 82 | August 20, 2025 | Military veteran; church leader |
| Mary Johnson Quinn | Not specified | August 19, 2025 | Active church member; community participant |
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Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: Obituary Archive
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg, South Carolina
- Floyd Mortuary: Tanya Aldridge Obituary
- Google Search: Spartanburg community
- J.M. Dunbar: Kenneth Crenshaw Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Floyd Mortuary: Mary Myrt Quinn Obituary
- Google News: Spartanburg SC obituaries
- Facebook Tribute
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
