William Earl Maharrey

William Earl "Sonny" Maharrey, 71, of Folly Beach, SC died Tuesday May 8, 2012 at Roper St. Francis Hospital.

Mr. Maharrey was born in Millen, GA on September 28, 1940, the son of William Henry and Nina Elizabeth Maharrey. He graduated from North Charleston High School and was a Navy veteran. He spent many years coaching T-ball for Hanahan Parks and Playground and serving others in the Hanahan Exchange Club. He retired from Charleston Naval Shipyard Shop 56 in 1992. At the time of his death he was employed by Sisters of Charity, Our Lady of Mercy on James Island.

Mr. Maharrey was an active member of Folly Beach United Methodist Church where he was involved in Methodist Men and sang in the choir.

Mr. Maharrey was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He especially cherished the grandchildren who affectionately called him PaTa. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Sherry Tanner Maharrey; 3 sons: Robert Maharrey (Karla) of Lufkin, TX, Patrick Maharrey (Constance) of Eutawville, SC, Sean Maharrey (Heather) of Eutawville, SC; one sister Linda Coker (Keith) of Cross, SC and one brother Steve Maharrey of Orangeburg, SC; six grandchildren, Rory, Ryan, Tanner, Katie, Brandon, and Reagan Maharrey; one uncle and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Beth Maharrey.

A memorial service will be held in Folly Beach United Methodist Church, 118 West Indian Avenue on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 12 noon. The family will receive friends in the Church Social Hall from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Folly Beach United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1079, Folly Beach, SC 29439.

Arrangements by J. HENRY STUHR, INC., DOWNTOWN CHAPEL.