Harold Eugene Rigdon, 84, of Iva, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Born in Rome, Georgia on March 6, 1941, Harold was the son of the late Joseph Armstrong Rigdon and Jessica Ruth Rigdon. He graduated from Barnwell High School, Class of 1960, where he excelled in sports and became a lifelong friend to just about everyone he met. He loved his classmates and never missed a reunion — always eager to swap stories, share laughs, and keep the memories alive.
Harold proudly served four years in the South Carolina Army National Guard. He built a long, successful career with Terminix Service, where he retired (twice) after 42 years of dedicated service. He was also a proud and active member of the Mathews Lions Club in Greenwood, SC, serving in many capacities over the years.
Harold was funny — the kind of funny that filled a room. Everyone loved Harold and his stories. He had an uncanny ability to connect with anyone, regardless of age or walk of life. He was a wealth of knowledge, a great listener, and a better storyteller. Harold loved the occasional Jim Beam and water when sitting with family and friends, usually with a grin and a story that got better every time he told it.
He was also known to buy a new set of golf clubs every time he had a bad round — because in Harold’s world, it was never the swing, always the clubs. Everyone he met loved him, and he made lasting friendships wherever he went.
Harold was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his three children: Michele (Mark) Kulas, Craig (Patti) Rigdon, and Sherry Orander; his grandchildren Matthew Kulas, Amanda Rigdon, Amber Smith, Brett Rigdon, Gabriel Rigdon, Jacob Rigdon, Joshua Rigdon, Hannah Bailey, Emily Orander, and Megan Orander; and one sister, Jane Petruccelli.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 18th at 12:00 PM at Barnwell County Memory Gardens, 2728 Reynolds Road, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life at Anthony’s Restaurant, 476 Reynolds Road, Barnwell, SC — just how Harold would’ve wanted it: good food, good friends, and a few stories that might not be entirely true.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Harold’s close friends and neighbors for their love, laughter, and endless support.
Harold will be remembered for his big heart, his quick wit, and his gift for making life more fun for everyone around him. Heaven gained a storyteller, a friend, and a man who never met a stranger — and if there’s a golf course up there, he’s already shopping for new clubs.
For friends who wish to send flowers or make a donation in Harold’s honor, flowers may be sent to Mole Funeral Home, 9399 Patterson Street, Barnwell, SC 29812, or donations may be made to the Mathews Lions Club, 504 Marietta Dr., Greenwood, SC 29646.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Harold Eugene Rigdon, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Graveside
18
Oct
2728 Reynolds Rd
Barnwell, SC 29812
