News Summary
The Irmo community is grieving the loss of four cherished residents: Rachael Dewey, Corinne Ouzts, Stacy Ouzts, and Elaine Simpson. Each individual profoundly influenced their families and the community, known for their love, laughter, and dedication. Memorials are planned to honor their legacies, emphasizing the strong bonds of family and friendship that remain vital to the community.
Irmo, SC – The community of Irmo is mourning the loss of four beloved residents: Rachael Dewey, Corinne Ouzts, Stacy Ouzts, and Elaine Simpson. Each of these individuals made significant impacts in their families, social circles, and the broader community, and they are remembered for their vibrant spirits and dedication to loved ones.
Rachael Dewey: A Vibrant Spirit Lost
Rachael Dewey passed away on March 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Zaria Amorese, and is also survived by her mother, Donna Dewey; sister, Nicole Wise; brother, Neil Dewey; and two nephews. Rachael is remembered for her quick wit, kindness, and infectious laughter that brightened the lives of those around her.
A fund has been established at Visions Federal Credit Union to assist her daughter, Zaria. A celebration luncheon in Rachael’s honor is scheduled for July 26, 2025, at Sons of Italy in Endicott.
Corinne Ouzts: A Life Full of Love and Family
Corinne Peterson Ouzts passed away unexpectedly on June 27, 2025, at the age of 77. Originally from Grace, Idaho, Corinne cherished her upbringing and the values instilled by farm life. She enjoyed an active lifestyle and was known for her sense of humor, which earned her the nickname “Smurf.” Corinne married Stacy Ouzts at the young age of 19, and together they shared a remarkable 57 years of marriage.
The couple was blessed with nine children and lived in various locations including Alaska, Ethiopia, and Texas. Corinne served in many capacities within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, showcasing her dedication to faith and community. She is survived by her husband, their nine children, and numerous grandchildren. Funeral services for Corinne are scheduled for July 12, 2025, at her church, with burial to follow on July 17, 2025.
Stacy Ouzts, Jr.: A Legacy of Family and Faith
Just nine days after the passing of his wife, Corinne, Stacy Carter Ouzts, Jr. died on July 6, 2025, at age 81. Raised in Charleston, SC, Stacy’s educational journey included obtaining both a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in accounting from Brigham Young University. Throughout his life, he was known for his dedication to family and his passion for sports.
Stacy and Corinne’s marriage was a testament to love and companionship that weathered many life changes, including military service and multiple relocations. He leaves behind nine children, 31 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. His funeral will be held on July 12, 2025, alongside Corinne’s services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Elaine Simpson: A Devoted Community Member
Elaine Steadman Simpson passed away peacefully at home on July 2, 2025, just shy of her 69th birthday. Born on July 3, 1956, in Bamberg, SC, Elaine was a dedicated mother and grandmother, committed to her family. With a career spanning 47 years at Eastman Chemical Company in the Environmental Department, she demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to her profession.
Elaine was also deeply involved in the local soccer community, serving as the club registrar for South Carolina United FC. A celebration of her life is planned for July 9, 2025, at Chapin Christian Community Church. Elaine is remembered for her quiet strength and unwavering faith, leaving behind fond memories for her loved ones.
Community Response
The losses of Rachael, Corinne, Stacy, and Elaine have left a profound impact on the Irmo community. Their lives serve as reminders of the importance of family, friendship, and community ties. As loved ones and friends come together to celebrate their memories, the legacy of these residents will continue to resonate through the lives they touched.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Series of Accidents in Irmo Raise Traffic Safety Concerns
Fast Food Employee Goes Viral Highlighting Staffing Crisis
Natural Gas Line Break Closes Kinley Road in Irmo
Investigations of Inhumane Treatment at Florida Immigration Facility
Historic Flash Flooding in Ruidoso, New Mexico Claims Lives and Causes Destruction
Bright Fireball Lights Up North Carolina Sky
South Carolina Faces Wildfire Crisis as State of Emergency Declared
Leon Levine Foundation Increases Assets to $2 Billion
Irmo High School Football Stars Commit to Yale and USC
Motorcyclist Dies in Irmo Crash on July 4th
Additional Resources
- Obituary: Corinne Ouzts
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Obituary: Stacy Ouzts
- Google Search: Stacy Ouzts
- Obituary: Elaine Simpson
- Google Scholar: Elaine Simpson
- Obituary: Patricia Harrison
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Obituary: Donald Mason
- Google News: Donald Mason
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
