Jake Rasor, Jr.

Jake Rasor, Jr., age 84, of Clinton, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, at Greenville Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 29, 1940, in Cross Hill, South Carolina, to the late Jake and Caroline (Motes) Rasor.

Jake was a man of faith and was devoted to his family. His kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength left an enduring mark on those who knew him. A proud graduate of Clinton High School in 1958, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Science Degree in Music from Furman University in 1962. He enjoyed career as band director and teaching music at East Clarendon High School in Turbeville, SC and later at Greenwood Middle and High School. In 1964, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Bootsie" Horton, beginning a partnership filled with love and shared adventures that spanned over six decades.

For most of his adult life, Jake was a gentleman farmer who proudly oversaw the operations of Harris Springs Preserve in Cross Hill. Carved out of the old Rasor homestead, Harris Springs became an Orvis-endorsed shooting facility specializing in sporting clays, upland bird hunting, conservation and was voted best wing shooting lodge in the US. Jake’s dedication to the land and his passion for preserving its natural beauty made the preserve a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a testament to his commitment to stewardship.

Jake’s commitment to his community was also profound, exemplified by his dedicated service on the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Advisory Board. He served with distinction under Governor Carroll Campbell from 1992 to 1995 and again under Governor Henry McMaster from 2018 to 2025, contributing to the preservation and stewardship of South Carolina’s natural resources. His leadership and passion for the state’s environment left a lasting legacy.

Jake, like his father before him was deeply committed to his church community. He found peace and serenity in his faith and did all he could to share this with others. From singing in the choir, providing a much loved Chapel to the Martha Franks Community, and growing his Liberty Springs Church, Jake’s heart was guided by the Lord.

Jake’s legacy will continue through his family, whom he cherished deeply. He is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth "Bootsie" Rasor; his children, Jake Rasor, III (Elizabeth) of Greenville, SC, Catherine Burrous (Peter) of Mount Pleasant, SC, and Christian Rasor (Elizabeth) of Columbia, SC; and his grandchildren, John Webster Burn, Jr. of Atlanta, GA, Isabelle Pinckney Rasor, William Christian Rasor, of Columbia, Mary Catherine Garrison Rasor, and Jake Rasor, IV of Greenville. He was predeceased by his parents, Jake and Caroline Rasor.

Jake Rasor, Jr’s legacy of love, family, and service to South Carolina will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

A Funeral Service will be held at Liberty Springs Presbyterian Church Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Andrew Perrie officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Springs Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at their home, 103 Calvert Avenue, Clinton, SC on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Jake’s memory with donations to the Development Fund for Liberty Springs Presbyterian Church, 200 Liberty Springs Street, Cross Hill, South Carolina 29332 a cause close to the Rasor family’s heart.

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

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