Saluda, SC

Willie Merchant Padget, Jr.

Willie Merchant Padget, Jr., 78, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at Self Regional Healthcare in Greenwood.

Born in Saluda County and the son of the late Willie Merchant Padget, Sr. and Milwee McGee Padget Ouzts, he was the husband of Sandra Gardner Padget. Mr. Padget was retired from Auto Body Repair and was a member of Red Bank Baptist Church. He had a deep love for hunting, farming, and gardening.

Surviving in addition to his wife of 55 years are two daughters, Jamie Butler (Dean) of Ninety Six and MeriAn Chomic (Nicholas) of Green Cove Springs, FL, a sister, JoAnn Renard (Jeff) of Manassas, VA, a brother-in-law, Charles Gardner of Saluda, a sister-in-law, Donna Rushton (Kenneth) of Saluda, three grandchildren, Jordan Butler (Joseph Johnson), AnaBelle Chomic and William Chomic and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Padget was preceded in death by his stepfather, Barney Ouzts and a sister-in-law, Celia Gardner.

A graveside service will be held 5 p.m., Thursday, September 25, 2025 at Travis Park Cemetery with Rev. Jonathan Deal officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the grave.

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