Saluda, SC

Aubrey Leavell Padgett, Sr., 93, passed away Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Oaks at Greenwood, where he lived for the past two years.

Born in Saluda County, and a son of the late Edwin Harvey Padgett and Willette Temple Padgett, he was the husband of the late Mary Lois Kirkland Padgett. Mr. Padgett served in the SC National Guard 122 ENG Company (CSE) of Saluda. He was a dedicated employee of Greenwood Mills, where he worked faithfully for many years until his retirement. Known for his strong work ethic and quiet strength, he earned the respect of all who knew him. He was a devoted member of Red Bank Baptist Church for over 70 years. As the church's oldest male member, his presence was a pillar of continuity and wisdom. He took great pride in his church family and was always willing to lend a helping hand or share a kind word.

He was the last surviving member of his immediate family, a quiet testament to a life lived with resilience and grace. He loved the outdoors and found great joy in working with his hands. A gifted gardener and tireless worker, he could be found tending to his garden or working on his farm.

Surviving are a daughter, Beth Padgett of Greenville, three sons, Leavell "Lee" Padgett of Greenwood, Russell Padgett (Roxanne) of Simpsonville, and Joe Padgett (Diane) of Saluda, five granddaughters, Marsha Dawkins (Chris), Haley Quarles (T.J. Storey), Morgan Rice (Josh), Kasey McNair (Ben), and Meredith Padgett, nine great-grandchildren, Madeline Dawkins, Molly Dawkins, Allie Quarles, Joseph Storey, Burnley Rice, Barrett Rice, Aubrey Rice, Emerson Rice, and Lyla McNair, and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Padgett was preceded in death by two sisters, Olivia P. Riley and Betty Padgett.

A memorial service will be held 4:00 pm, on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Red Bank Baptist Church with Rev. Jonathan Deal officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church social hall.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Oaks at Greenwood and Providence Care (Hospice) for their compassion and exceptional care.

Memorials may be made to Red Bank Baptist Church, 309 E. Church Street, Saluda, SC 29138.