Laurens, SC, September 4, 2025
News Summary
The Laurens community is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Rachel Gambrell Spoon and Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr., both of whom made significant contributions to their families and the community. Rachel, a beloved church member, and Maxie, known for his generosity towards veterans, are remembered fondly. Their legacies of love and service will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew them.
Laurens, SC – The community is mourning the loss of two of its cherished residents, Rachel Gambrell Spoon and Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr., who both passed away recently and have left a profound impact on their families and the wider community.
Rachel Gambrell Spoon, aged 97, died on August 29, 2025, at the Martha Franks Baptist Retirement Center. Born on September 6, 1927, in Laurens, Rachel was the daughter of Robert Edward and Canie Nelson Gambrell. She was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Laurens, where she nurtured her faith through her involvement in the Steele Bible Sunday School class and the CWA (Comfortable with Age) group.
Rachel was the wife of the late Raymond Samuel Spoon and had a long career as a secretary at Laurens Glass. Throughout her life, she valued her family greatly, leaving behind three children: Tana Adams, Sam Spoon, and Lisa Rawson, as well as 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, parents, and a son, Steve Spoon, along with three brothers and two sisters.
A graveside service for Rachel took place on September 1, 2025, at Highland Home Baptist Church Cemetery, led by Rev. Tim Marsh and Rev. Phil Hall. The family expressed their gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Lutheran Hospice during Rachel’s final years. In her honor, memorial contributions can be made to Laurens First Baptist Church or Lutheran Hospice.
Meanwhile, Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr., 57, also passed away this week on August 26, 2025, after a brave battle with cancer. Born on August 8, 1968, in Clinton, SC, Maxie was the son of the late Maxie Leonard Reeder Sr. and Beverly Webb Reeder (Moore). Known for his generosity and community spirit, especially toward veterans, Maxie held the position of South Carolina Notary Public and was a proud member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 25.
Maxie is remembered by his family, including his wife Maria Reeder, son John Michael Reeder, and foster son Christopher Antonio Olivarez. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother Mike, brother John, sister Sandra, and cousin Barry. In keeping with his wishes, Maxie planned to donate his body for educational purposes at Piedmont Technical College, and a gathering to honor his life is forthcoming. The family requests that donations be made to the Veterans Assistance and Support Foundation in lieu of flowers, a testament to Maxie’s lifelong dedication to helping veterans. Online condolences can be expressed on the Gray Funeral Home website.
Additionally, another local resident, Kimlerlin Darlene Cannady Wells, known as Kim, passed away earlier on May 26, 2025. Born on April 13, 1964, in Laurens, Kim was deeply loved by her family and friends. She was the daughter of the late Thomas Edwin Cannady and Mary Ann Bramlett, with a stepmother, Leona Cannady. She was predeceased by her sister Cathy Jean Simmons and sister Carol Beaman, as well as brother-in-law William Wells.
As a retail manager and small business owner, Kim was admired for her work ethic and leadership. She was also a talented crafter and avid fisher, enjoying time in the mountains. Survived by her husband Landy Rea Wells and her children, April Dawn Wells and Timothy Rea Wells, Kim leaves behind eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Her life is remembered for her love, selflessness, and the joy she brought to her family and friends.
As the Laurens community comes together to remember Rachel, Maxie, and Kim, their legacies of love and service will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew them.
FAQ
Who were Rachel Gambrell Spoon and Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr.?
Rachel Gambrell Spoon was a 97-year-old community member from Laurens, SC, who passed away on August 29, 2025. Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr. was 57 and died on August 26, 2025, after battling cancer.
What contributions did Rachel make to her community?
Rachel was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Laurens, participating in various church groups and fostering lifelong friendships through her faith and community engagement.
What was Maxie known for in the community?
Maxie was recognized for his generosity, particularly towards veterans, and held the role of South Carolina Notary Public while being involved in the Sons of the American Legion.
What is known about Kimlerlin Darlene Cannady Wells?
Kim, born on April 13, 1964, was a retail manager and small business owner, who was cherished for her work ethic, kindness, and love for her family, passing away on May 26, 2025.
Key Features Overview
| Name | Age at Passing | Date of Passing | Community Involvement | Notable Family Members |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rachel Gambrell Spoon | 97 | August 29, 2025 | First Baptist Church Member | 3 Children, 11 Grandchildren, 19 Great-Grandchildren |
| Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr. | 57 | August 26, 2025 | Generosity to Veterans, Sons of the American Legion | Wife, Son, Foster Son |
| Kimlerlin Darlene Cannady Wells | 61 | May 26, 2025 | Retail Manager, Business Owner | Husband, 2 Children, 8 Grandchildren |
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Additional Resources
- GoLaurens: Maxie Leonard Reeder Jr. Obituary
- Cremation Society of SC: Kimlerlin Cannady Wells Obituary
- Andrews Mortuary: John Wright Jr. Obituary
- Legacy: Mary Romano Obituary
- Tribute Archive: Elsie Martin Obituary
- Wikipedia: Laura Bush
- Google Search: Laurens SC community news
- Google Scholar: Community Involvement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituaries
- Google News: Laurens SC
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