1
tree
planted in memory of John Henry Mole Sr.
Obituary for John Henry Mole Sr.
John Henry Mole, Senior, age 77, of Barnwell, South Carolina, passed away on May 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving children.
John was born on August 24, 1948 in Augusta, Georgia, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Durant Mole. He graduated from Barnwell High School, Class of 1966, then went on to graduate from Anderson Junior College followed by completing his Bachelor’s of Science degree at Presbyterian College. He received an additional degree in Mortuary Science from Gupton Jones Mortuary School. Upon his father’s death, he continued to own and operate Mole Funeral Home and compassionately served the Barnwell community for the next 52 years.
John was a deeply caring man whose life was defined by his family and his career. As a small-town mortician, he served his community with dignity, kindness, and unwavering respect, guiding families through some of their hardest moments with grace and empathy. His work was not just a profession, but a calling, and he touched countless lives through his steady presence and gentle heart.
John was a lifelong member of Barnwell United Methodist Church, member of Barnwell Harmony Lodge #17, member of the Ellenton Agricultural Club, and a past member of the Barnwell Rotary Club.
Above all, John loved his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather who was always present. His love was constant, and his support never wavered. His family will always carry with them the lessons he taught—not just in words, but in the way he lived his life. He had an incredible work ethic, he loved the Lord, and he was a true friend to all who knew him. He will be remembered for his warm heart, his quiet kindness, and the way he made people feel seen and cared for. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and love.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Durant and Trixie Hazel Mole, his sister, Alice Jo Mole, and his stepson, William Bradford Riley. He is survived by his children Anna Christine “Chrissa” (Chad) Mole Matthews of Aiken, South Carolina and John Henry (Echo) Mole, Junior of Barnwell, South Carolina; and his treasured grandchildren, Charles Haze Matthews, Madeline Christine Matthews, John Hunter Mole, William O’Neal Mole, Richard Finn Mole, Michael Chase Mole, Grayson River Mole and Jasper C. Nguyen.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Barnwell United Methodist Church, followed by burial in the United Methodist Church Cemetery with Masonic Rights. Visitation will be held at Barnwell United Methodist Church on Thursday, May 7, 2026 from 6-8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Barnwell United Methodist Church, Post Office Box 126, Barnwell, SC 29812.
Please visit our online registry at molefh.com.
To plant a tree in memory of John Henry Mole Sr., visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
Thursday
7
May
6:00 PM
- 8:00 PM
Barnwell United Methodist Church
236 Main St.
Barnwell, SC 29812
Funeral Service
Friday
8
May
11:00 AM
Barnwell United Methodist Church
236 Main St.
Barnwell, SC 29812
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