Grady Estes

Rock Hill - Mr. Grady Morrison "Buddy" Estes, Jr., of Rock Hill, passed away at the age of 90 on Sunday, September 27, 2009 at home.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Robin Grey Estes; his parents Morrison Estes, Sr., former mayor of Ebenezer Township, and Josephine Irene King Estes. Also preceding him in death were his brothers Jimmy and King Estes.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Ida Robinson Ester; his children, Gilliam Morrison "Morry" Estes of Irmo, Howard Eric Estes of Myrtle Beach, Ida Lee Estes Steele of Clover, and his son and caregiver Stephen Christopher "Chris" Estes, Sr. of Rock Hill; his sister, Lonette Estes Ogbourne of Winnsboro. He is also survived by his grandson, another of his caregivers, Stephen Christopher Estes, Jr. of the home, as well as six other grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Mr. Estes retired in 1996 from State Farm Insurance after 37 years as an agent. He worked alongside his father, Rock Hill's first State Farm agent, and his brothers until their retirements from the business. Prior to a career in insurance, Mr. Estes worked for Rock Hill Printing and Finishing. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1946 during WWII and played in the Drum and Bugle Corps. He continued playing trumpet for many years in the Buddy Estes Band, playing at many socials and at the American Legion, VFW, and Moose Lodge.

A private service will be held for the family. Internment will be at Grandview Memorial at Hollis Lakes.

Whitesell Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.