Thurman B. "TB" Elliott Jr.

Thurman Bernice Elliott Jr., of Eutawville, SC, passed away peacefully on April 15th at the age of 81. Born in Kingstree, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Thurman Bernice Elliott, Sr. and Mary Essie Roberts Elliott.

Thurman lived a life filled with faith, service, music, and passion. His love for the outdoors was ever-present—whether casting a line into quiet waters, teeing off on the golf course, or walking through the woods during hunting season. He also found joy in simply sitting outside, enjoying the view of the lake. He was among the first barefoot water skiers on Lake Marion, a reflection of his adventurous spirit.

Thurman was a member of Corinth Baptist Church. Earlier in life, he served as a deacon and took great pride in teaching Sunday school—roles he truly enjoyed.

He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam conflict, where he worked as a crew chief on a KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft, flying over 50 combat missions across the Pacific. During this time, a fellow airman taught him how to take off and land, a skill that deepened his lifelong love of aviation.

Creative and talented, Thurman was a gifted craftsman, musician, and artist. He mastered the harmonica, excelling in both the blues harp and cross harp, and was also an accomplished singer and guitarist. Music remained a constant in his life, and he continued to perform and share it with others well into retirement.

Thurman’s creativity extended beyond music; he enjoyed building intricate birdhouses, woodworking, and collecting arrowheads and historical artifacts, hobbies that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship, history, and attention to detail.

He was a Past Master of Vance Masonic Lodge #230 and a proud Shriner, finding great joy in fellowship and service alongside his brothers.

Professionally, Thurman brought integrity and dedication to his work as plant distribution manager and shipping superintendent at Holcim. He was respected for his leadership and strong work ethic.

Above all, Thurman was a devoted family man who cherished every moment with his loved ones. He found joy in simple, heartfelt moments—especially during trips to Myrtle Beach, which were filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. His strong character, determination, and gift for storytelling left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Valerie (Scott) and Jodi (Chris); his grandchildren, Chelsea, Dalton, and Marlee; his sisters, Jeanette Shuler and Frances Sinkler; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Elaine; his brother, Buck Elliott; his sister, Lucy Rush; and his brothers-in-law, Larmi Prickett, Manning Shuler, and Katon Rush.

The family will receive friends on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Avinger Funeral Home, 2274 Eutaw Road in Holly Hill.

A service to celebrate Thurman’s life will be held at Corinth Baptist Church on April 22 at 2p.m. followed by burial at Holly Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Corinth Baptist Church.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith, and music will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at avingerfh.com/.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Avinger Funeral Home, 2274 Eutaw Rd, Holly Hill, SC 29059, (803)496-3434.