Ely Edward "Eddie" Driggers, Jr.

Ely Edward (Eddie) Driggers, Jr., 69, of North Charleston, South Carolina, husband of the late Lennis Beach Driggers, entered into eternal rest surrounded by his family and friends on Saturday, June 24, 2023. 
Born and raised in the Charleston area, Eddie served his country in the U.S. Navy then worked for Lent’s Red and White in Goose Creek for some time. He served his community as a well-known and respected member of law enforcement for over 30 years. 
He first joined the City of North Charleston Police Department in 1975 and served in various capacities, from patrol officer to specialized units. In 1986, Eddie moved to the Charleston County Police Department (which later transitioned to the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office). He was a member of the inaugural SWAT and DIVE teams and was instrumental in establishing the first negotiation team. He rose to the rank of Assistant Sheriff before his retirement in 2006. 
When he was not working as a first responder, Eddie continued to be an integral part of serving the community. He was a chaplain with the Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy for many years. Eddie will always be remembered for his love of family, friends, the city and first responders. But foremost, was his love of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. “Do you know you are loved today?” was his favorite question to ask of anyone and everyone he met. 
He was ordained as a deacon in the Anglican Church of South Carolina in 2012. A true servant, he helped plant a new church in North Charleston, the Church of the Resurrection, where he attended and served up until his death. 
In 2013, he once again answered the call to serve. Eddie returned to law enforcement as the Chief of Police for the City of North Charleston Police Department. Eddie was known for his love of people, his wisdom and integrity. 
Eddie is survived by two sons, Ely Edward Driggers, III of Hollywood, SC, and Michael Shane Driggers (Tracey) of Hollywood, SC; three sisters, Martha Westendorff (Clarence deceased) of St. Hedwig, TX, Cynthia Hiott (Bobby) of North Charleston, SC and Catherine Miller (Robert deceased) of Hanahan, SC; two grandchildren, Macy Driggers and Michael Shane Driggers, Jr. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by his parents Ely Edward and Grace Olease Tomkinson Driggers, and his sister, Patricia Ezell (Bobby) of Conroe, TX.
His Funeral Service will be held Saturday, July 1, 2023 in  Cathedral of Praise, 3790 Ashley Phosphate Road at 2:00 pm.  Interment following will be in Carolina Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday in Cathedral of Praise from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.  Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. Northwoods Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either one of these places that were near and dear to his heart: 
·    The Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy, at <https://coastalcrisischaplain.org/> 
·    The Church of the Resurrection at <https://www.resurrectionnorthcharleston.com/>