Rodney Elton Malphrus

Rodney Elton Malphrus, 89, of Ridgeland, SC, passed away on April 13, 2020.  He was born on July 23, 1930 in Ridgeland, SC to the late Mr. and Mrs. John and Gladys Malphrus. 

Mr. Rodney is a lifelong member of Great Swamp Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and on other committees.  He was drafted in 1951 while in high school to serve in the US Army as a medic in Korea.  Upon his return he was employed at Holiday Wear in Ridgeland, SC, where he worked for 12 years.  While working for Holiday Wear Manufacturing he married Patricia Vaigneur.  After leaving Holiday Wear, he went to work at the SC Forestry Commission.  He was a Forest Fire Warden until his retirement, at the age of 76, serving 38 years.  During his employment, he attended classes to finish his high school diploma, and received his degree in 1990.  He didn’t let retiring keep him from being active.  After retirement, he built his dream log home on his farm.  His family knew he loved and protected them through his strong but loving hand.  Mr. Malphrus enjoyed farming, being outdoors, and was a good neighbor.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 65 years, Patricia V. Malphrus; one daughter, Iola Daring (David); three sons, Rodney Malphrus, Jr. (April), Martin Malphrus (Jodi), Patrick Malphrus (Kim); nine grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one sister, Grace Boyles.  He was predeceased by twin sons: Rabun Lew, Ruben Lee Malphrus, and three brothers, Lyman Malphrus, John Lawton Malphrus, Jr. and an infant brother.

The family will celebrate his life with a private service and burial.  A memorial service for family and friends will be announced at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made in Mr. Rodney Malphrus’ memory to Great Swamp Baptist Church, general fund, P.O. Box 446, Ridgeland, SC  29936.

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