Harry "Skeet" Lanier Birt

Harry Lanier “Skeet” Birt, 87, of Barnwell, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 10, 2026.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Elko Baptist Church, with Reverend Jeremy Creech officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the church.

Born April 24, 1938, in Barnwell County, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Harry Birt and Margaret Elizabeth Baxley Birt. He was a lifelong resident of Barnwell County and a proud graduate of Barnwell High School, Class of 1956. He was married for 62 years to his beloved wife, Faye Owens Birt, who preceded him in death. Mr. Birt’s life work was spent in the textile industry, including years at Milliken in Barnwell, and he retired from the Graniteville Company. Following his retirement, his love for people led him to continue working in roles that kept him connected to others. He enjoyed time in real estate with The Property Shop and also worked alongside family at Neeley’s Appliance, both of which brought him great fulfillment. He was well known for his love of conversation and his genuine interest in others. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable way of making people feel comfortable and valued. Whether in passing or in long conversation, he took the time to learn about people’s lives, often turning brief encounters into lasting connections.

Mr. Birt also had a deep love for gardening, which was one of his favorite hobbies. He spent countless hours tending his greenhouse and yard, nurturing plants, flowers, and vegetables with care and pride. He found great joy not only in growing them, but in sharing them—often giving plants and vegetables from his garden to friends, family, and neighbors as a simple but meaningful expression of kindness. A man of strong faith, he was a long-time member of Elko Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon, taught Sunday School, and helped lead the RA’s. His faith was reflected in his quiet service and the way he lived his life each day. He was devoted to his family and cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Survivors include his children, Terri Birt (John) Reeley of Lexington; Angela Birt (Andy) Williams of Barnwell; Jeffery N. (Janice) Birt of Williston; and Dawn Birt (Tim) Ochal of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren, Nicole Marie Birt, Brittany Elizabeth Birt, Jacob Wiley Birt, Dustin Michael Smith, Margaret Grace (Tyler) Kelly, Carley Faye Williams (Jordan Zimmerman), Cody Lanier (Kayla) Birt, and Sydney Belle Ochal; a sister, Elaine Cope of Denmark; and his devoted companion, Jolene.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Tony Lanier Birt, and a step- grandson, Joshua Steven Reeley.

Mr. Birt will be remembered for his kindness, his gift for conversation, and the many lives he touched through simple, genuine connection. His love for people and his joy in sharing from his garden will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Folk Funeral Home, Inc. and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.folkfuneralhome.com.

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