David M. Peden
David Martin Peden, Sr. passed from his earthly life of 92 years April 29,2013. He was born November 19, 1920, to Eileen Curry Peden and David Martin Peden of Fountain Inn. David lost his father at eight months of age to a drowning accident, with much love he was raised by his mother and her three sisters.
After attending Presbyterian College he married Maude Chandler of the Ware Place. World War II began and David joined the Air Force, stationed at Greenville Army Air Base for four years. A daughter Margaret Ann was born and 16 years later a son, David Jr.
David was Postmaster at Gray Court for some thirty years. After retirement David devoted his life to his favorite pastime, working with Boy Scout Troop 196/Gray Court. There is not enough time to tell of his exploits and escapades with the scouts. Chief Go-Go had the greatest time going to Camp Old Indian in their customized Model A “bus”.
Helping people and making them smile with gifts of flowers and Whitman’s’ samplers was something he did every day. Riverbanks Zoo was his favorite place to go and he with his scouts helped sponsor many things there. He was so thrilled to have three grandsons whom he took on many adventures. He and Maude were happy to welcome 2 great- grandchildren as well.
David’s life was filled with good deeds, lots of fun and a great love for his church, his family and a passionate care for his country.
He was a recipient of the Order of the Palmetto, The Jefferson Award, and the Silver Beaver.
David was pre-deceased by his wife Maude and son David Jr. He is survived by his daughter Margaret Ann and her husband David Swygert; three grandsons, Wayne[Andrea] of Columbia, SC, Norman of Portland, OR and Mark [Valerie] Lexington, SC and two great-grandchildren, Julia and Ronan.
The family would like to thank the staff of Wildewood Downs for their care for the past year and a half. The family would like for all of his former scouts to be honorary pallbearers.
Visitation will be held Friday, May 3rd, 2013 from 11:00 am to 11:50 am at Dials United Methodist Church on Hwy 101, in Gray Court. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 noon. Burial will be in the Church cemetery.
The family requests that donations made be made to Dials UMC or The Memorial Home, 3744 Torrington Rd, Laurens, SC 29360.
