Russell Alan Loudermilk

Russell Alan Loudermilk, 72, affectionately known as “Bop” by his beloved grandchildren, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a faithful servant of Christ whose legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. Born in Clarksville, GA, Alan grew up in Slater-Marietta, SC, before being drafted to serve as a military policeman in the US Army in Germany. Upon returning to the States he began his career in the material handling industry where he served loyally as a manager for the same fork lift company for more than fifty years. Bop was the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy. He absolutely loved spending time with them and was their biggest fan, never missing a chance to brag about their accomplishments. His pride in them was endless, and his love for them was unconditional. Surviving are his loving wife of 52 years: Joyce Jeanette Kirby Loudermilk; one son: Kevin Brandon Loudermilk (best friend and the one Alan passed his athletic ability to); daughter-in-law: Ashley (a nurse who Bop adored and credited with saving his life); one daughter: Kasey Leigh Loudermilk Tant (favorite daughter who was his biggest advocate); son-in-law: Corey (do-it-all neighbor); one brother: David Loudermilk; one sister, Valerie Dickerson (Joe); cousin Janet Gravely (who was more like a sister) and eight grandchildren: Alia Loudermilk (who made him a grandfather), Abigale Looper (well-known to be his favorite) (husband, Aaron), Violet Loudermilk (Bop was so proud that she is going to Clemson), Kayleigh Tant (the smartest grandchild who Bop loved giving a hard time about missing school), Avery Russell Loudermilk (Bop’s handyman and namesake), Catelyn Tant (Bop loved her creativity), Cooper Loudermilk (his star athlete), and Kyler Tant (Bop’s best friend). Along with his parents, Russell Kermith Loudermilk and Daisy Marcelle Buchanan Madison, he was predeceased by one son: Jeffrey Alan Loudermilk; one brother: Victor Loudermilk; and two sisters: Lisa Gilbert and Lynn Loudermilk. The family will receive friends Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Oolenoy Baptist Church. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m. with the burial to follow in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Oolenoy Baptist Church building fund, 201 Miracle Hill Rd., Pickens, SC 29671. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.thehowzemortuary.com. The Howze Mortuary, Travelers Rest, is in charge of arrangements. (864) 834-8051. More about Alan… Alan had a sharp wit and a great sense of humor that stayed with him through every chapter of life. He was a gifted storyteller, known for sharing tales that could make a room burst into laughter. He was still making his loved ones laugh right up until the end—a gift they will always cherish. A passionate supporter of Clemson sports, Alan rarely missed a game and proudly wore his orange and purple. His enthusiasm for the Tigers was only matched by his deep and abiding faith. A lifelong man of faith, Alan was a saved Christian who served faithfully as a deacon at Oolenoy Baptist Church. His quiet strength, servant’s heart, and unwavering belief in God were evident in all he did. He led by example and was a steady source of guidance, encouragement, and love. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of laughter, faith, and devotion to his family will continue to live on through those who were blessed to know and love him. Outside of Thursday’s visitation and service at Oolenoy Baptist Church, the family will be receiving guests at Alan’s home and welcomes friends to stop by, share memories, and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

Russell Alan Loudermilk

August 15, 1952 - June 9, 2025