Edisto Island, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Edisto Island community is grieving the loss of four cherished residents: Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen, Shirley Higgins, Richard Eugene Fisk, and Franklin Taliaferro Sams. Each has left behind a legacy of love and community service, impacting countless lives. Their contributions to both their families and the Edisto Island community will always be remembered. Funeral services are scheduled for each individual to honor their memory and dedication.
Edisto Island Community Mourns Beloved Residents
The Edisto Island community is in mourning following the recent passing of four cherished residents: Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen, Shirley Higgins, Richard Eugene Fisk, and Franklin Taliaferro Sams. Each of these individuals leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and community service.
Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen
Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen, aged 86, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025. Born on April 11, 1939, in Florence, South Carolina, he was the son of Clyde Hyman Killen and Chrystine Rose Oliver Killen. Affectionately known as “Poppy” by his family, Dr. Killen made a significant impact as the first and only pediatric dentist in Anderson for many years.
A man of varied talents, Dr. Killen was an avid golfer and enjoyed sharing stories with friends on the course. His early experiences ranged from delivering newspapers on his bicycle to excelling in sports; he was a quarterback, All-State basketball player, and track star. He earned a football scholarship to Clemson College and played in the Bluebonnet Bowl in 1959, cherishing the wristwatch awarded to players.
Dr. Killen attended the Medical College of Virginia for dental school while working as a nurse and even demonstrated remarkable bravery when he saved his two-year-old nephew from drowning. He remained connected to his roots, returning to Clemson to receive his diploma in 2010.
A dedicated family man, he is survived by his wife Betty and their children: Craig, Patrick, Christi, and Tim. His funeral service will be held on October 24, 2025, at Trinity Church, Edisto Island, SC.
Shirley Higgins
Mrs. Shirley Higgins, aged 67, passed away on July 7, 2025, after a courageous six-year battle with cancer. Born on January 7, 1958, in Lexington County, she was the youngest of nine siblings, later adopted and raised by her aunt and uncle. Shirley moved to Edisto Island in 1984 and co-owned The Steamer restaurant, where she made many lasting connections.
Transitioning later into a career in insurance adjusting with Pilot Catastrophe, she married her husband Keith Higgins in 2007. Shirley was known for her active involvement with the Edisto Beach Baptist Church, particularly with Vacation Bible School, and was a proud supporter of the Clemson Tigers. She is survived by her husband, three daughters, a son, and several grandchildren. Her funeral service will be held on July 12, 2025, at Edisto Beach Baptist Church.
Richard Eugene Fisk
Richard Eugene Fisk, known affectionately as “Ricky,” passed away on September 27, 2025, at the age of 61. Born on November 3, 1963, in Charleston, South Carolina, he was the son of Walter Eugene Fisk and Mary Linda Thompkins Fisk. Ricky co-owned West Bank Construction Company, specializing in site preparation and land clearing.
A passionate outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping, and he served as a girls’ softball coach at the Lowcountry Leadership Charter School. Loved by his family, he was known as “PawPaw” to his grandsons. Ricky is survived by his wife Kathy, two daughters, a sister, a brother, and two grandchildren. His funeral service will be held on October 3, 2025, at The Presbyterian Church on Edisto Island.
Franklin Taliaferro Sams
Franklin Taliaferro Sams passed away peacefully at home on September 13, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on July 18, 1932, in Adams Run, South Carolina, he attended Porter Military Academy and Clemson College before serving in the U.S. Army. His career included important roles in journalism and public relations at Sea Pines Plantation and Sea Island Resorts, where he significantly contributed to starting The Heritage Golf Tournament.
An outdoor enthusiast, Sams enjoyed spending time in nature. He is survived by his wife Caroline, three children, eight grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of choice, and a graveside service will be held on September 25, 2025, in Old St. Andrew’s Parish Churchyard.
Conclusion
These four individuals made lasting contributions to their families and the Edisto Island community. Their memories and the legacies they leave behind will continue to inspire all who knew them.
FAQs
Who was Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen?
Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen was an 86-year-old pediatric dentist in Anderson, known for his dedication to his family and community. He passed away on October 20, 2025.
What contributions did Shirley Higgins make to her community?
Shirley Higgins co-owned The Steamer restaurant, worked in insurance adjusting, and was actively involved in the Edisto Beach Baptist Church. She passed away on July 7, 2025.
What was Richard Eugene Fisk known for?
Richard Eugene Fisk, known as Ricky, co-owned West Bank Construction Company and was a passionate outdoorsman and girls’ softball coach. He passed away on September 27, 2025.
What was Franklin Taliaferro Sams’ legacy?
Franklin Taliaferro Sams had a career in journalism and public relations and played a crucial role in starting The Heritage Golf Tournament. He passed away on September 13, 2025.
Summary of Key Features
| Name | Age | Date of Passing | Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen | 86 | October 20, 2025 | Pediatric dentist, golfer, community leader |
| Shirley Higgins | 67 | July 7, 2025 | Cofounder of The Steamer, church member |
| Richard Eugene Fisk | 61 | September 27, 2025 | Co-owner of West Bank Construction, softball coach |
| Franklin Taliaferro Sams | 93 | September 13, 2025 | Journalist, public relations, founder of The Heritage Golf Tournament |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Fecal Contamination Crisis Hits South Carolina Beaches
Additional Resources
- Legacy: Dr. Clyde Patrick Killen
- Parker Rhoden Funeral Home: Shirley Higgins
- Brice Herndon Funeral Home: Richard Eugene Fisk
- J. Henry Stuhr Funeral Home: Franklin Taliaferro Sams
- Live 5 News: Edisto Island Hit-and-Run Incident
- Wikipedia: Edisto Island
- Google Search: Edisto Island community news
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Edisto Island
- Google Scholar: Edisto Island residents
- Google News: Edisto Island obituaries
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