Florence Community Mourning the Loss of Mable Gaither and James Henicks Jr.

A beautiful park in Florence, South Carolina, where the community gathers to remember loved ones.

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News Summary

The Florence community is in grief as it mourns the passing of two cherished individuals, Mable Gaither and James Henicks Jr. Mable, a lifelong resident, passed away on July 27, while Jimmy Henicks, known for his teaching and artistic talents, died on August 2. Their impacts on the community will be fondly remembered, and services for both are being arranged.

Florence, South Carolina – The community of Florence is in mourning following the passing of two beloved figures, Mable Gaither and James Henicks Jr., whose lives touched many across the area.

Mable Gaither, a lifelong resident of Florence, passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Details regarding her funeral arrangements will be provided by Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC. Family and friends are being encouraged to hold Mable and her family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Meanwhile, James Henicks Jr., affectionately known as Jimmy, died on August 2, 2024, at his home in Riverdale, Georgia. He was born on July 20, 1949, to the late James Sr. and Willie Mae Henicks in Florence, where he spent his formative years.

Jimmy graduated from Wilson High School in Florence in 1968, after which he served four years in the United States Air Force as a Sergeant. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at the University of Miami, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. He continued his studies at Clark Atlanta University, acquiring a Master’s degree.

After completing his education, Jimmy returned to Georgia, where he made a significant impact as an Art instructor in the Fulton County public schools. His passion for teaching was matched only by his love for the arts; he was a talented artist known for his creativity and innovation. Later in his career, he worked at the Hapeville United States Postal Office until his retirement.

Known for his charming personality and infectious sense of humor, James Henicks Jr. was well-appreciated by both colleagues and friends. He had a knack for making those around him smile and will be remembered fondly.

In his personal life, he had a deep fascination for travel and exploring different cultures, often sharing stories of his adventures with family and friends. Despite the joy he brought to others, he faced personal losses; he was preceded in death by his parents, a sister (Gloria Jean Harrison), and two nieces (Angela King and Kimberly Graham-Clark).

He is survived by his daughter, Kosha, as well as his grandson, Tracie Campbell, and great-grandchild, Kacie Campbell, all residing in Houston, Texas. Additionally, Jimmy leaves behind four siblings: Geraldine (Eddie) Walston, Hermenia King, Wilhelmena (Dwight) Talton, all from Florence, and Nadine (Melvin) Smith from Darlington, South Carolina.

His extended family includes four aunts: Mable Gaither of Florence, Ethel Mae Henicks of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Elizabeth Kirven, and Gladys Alexander Smoot of Richmond, Virginia. He is also survived by two nieces (Morrisa Robinson of Florence, SC and Renae King of San Jose, CA), two nephews (KC Talton of Florence, SC and Craig Scott of Bronx, NY), a special cousin (Virginia Harrison of Alpharetta, GA), and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, friends, and a close neighbor (Linda Bolton of Riverdale, GA).

The funeral service for James Henicks Jr. is set for Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Smith’s Funeral Home in Florence. A second service will be held at the Florence National Cemetery on Monday, September 16, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM.

As the community reflects on the lives of Mable Gaither and James Henicks Jr., their memories will be cherished by many, highlighting the lasting impact they left on individuals and the community alike.