Hoyt R. Hanvey

Hoyt R. Hanvey, age 92, widower of Sara Bagwell Hanvey, passed away Wednesday, August 5, 2026 after a brief illness surrounded by his family.

 He was born February 7, 1934 in Clinton. He was the son of the late Eva Rice Hanvey. He was a 1952 graduate of Clinton High School. Hoyt started working at the age of 14 and continued working until he was 91 years old. He spent his younger years running Lydia Mill Company Store which led to his interest in the jewelry business. Hoyt owned and operated Hoyt Hanvey Jewelers in Downtown Clinton for 53 years. He was a Veteran of the United States Army and Air Force Reserves. Hoyt dedicated his life to the Lord at 7 years old. He was a lifelong member of Bellview Baptist Church, having served in many capacities- Deacon, Sunday school teacher for 50 plus years, pastor search committee, and building committee.

Hoyt also served on several civic committees: Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Laurens County School Board, and Laurens County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission.

He enjoyed traveling with Sara. He found much fulfillment in his work and interacting with his customers. He enjoyed meeting his buddies for coffee in the mornings at Whiteford’s. His favorite title was “Papa”. Hoyt will be remembered for his deep devotion to his family, his enduring faith, and his years of dedicated service to his Church and community.

Hoyt is survived by his daughters, Angie Hanvey McKittrick, Julie Hanvey Wofford (Chris), and Lucy Hanvey Marshall (Eddie); his grandchildren, Ginny Leigh McKittrick, Michael McKittrick, Matthew McKittrick, Kaylen McKittrick, Colby Crowder, Branson Mack Ashley, Zack Wofford, Adam Wofford, Claire Marshall, Kate Marshall, and Emeri Marshall; and his special employee and life-long family friend, Kim Epting.

In addition to his mother and wife of 63 years, Sara Bagwell Hanvey, Hoyt is preceded in death by his son-in-law, David McKittrick; his sister and brother-in-law Maxine Hanvey Compton and Sam Compton; his brother-in-law and sister- in-law, David and Joann Bagwell.

 Funeral Services will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 11 AM at Bellview Baptist Church with burial to follow at the Rosemont Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, August 7, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Gray Funeral Home of Clinton.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Hoyt with memorials to Bellview Baptist Church Building Fund, 757 Bellview Church Road, Laurens, SC 29360.

The family will be at the Hanvey residence.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com.

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Hanvey family with services.