John Preston Underwood has Passed

John Preston Underwood

JULY 4, 1932 - DECEMBER 30, 2011

BELTON, SC. - John Preston Underwood, 79, of Belton, went home to heaven on Friday, December 30, 2011 at his residence. Born in Greenup, Illinois, he was son of the late Walter E. and Cordelia Brandenburg Underwood. For over 33 years he was a most devoted husband to his wife, Frances Ellen Underwood, mother of his children.

John retired at the rank of Tech Sergeant after a distinguished 21 year career as a Missile Maintainer, Radio Repairman and Combat Controller in the United States Air Force. A Korean War veteran, he accomplished more than 200 jumps as a Master Paratrooper during his military career. He loved his country with a passion! In addition he worked for 15 years for the Michelin Corporation in Greenville. John dearly loved and supported his church, Big Creek Baptist Church of Williamston.

John's legacy is continued by sons Frederick E. Cooper of Hendersonville, N.C., and Chaplain, Lt. Col. Ron Underwood (Paulette) of Sumter; daughters Cathy F. Matheny (John) of Williamston, Jonnie Ellen Lagrifolle of Williamston, Kimberly Ruth Keepfer (Scott) of Williamston, Victoria Jane Hartley (Ray) of Myrtle Beach, and Carol Lyn Chandler of Anderson; nieces Jeannie Duke and Kaye Beatty, both of Greenville; and loving friend and companion Johnnie Bell of Williamston. John also is survived by 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he was predeceased by a brother, Walter Underwood, and a sister, Betty Merz.

The service celebrating the life of Mr. Underwood will be held on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, at 3 PM at the Big Creek Baptist Church of Williamston, with the Rev. Mitch Gambrell officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family will be at the residence and will receive friends at the church on Monday from 1 PM-2:30 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to Big Creek Baptist Church, 820 S. Hamilton Street, Williamston, SC 29697.

A message of condolence may be sent by visiting www.mcdougaldfuneralhome.com. THE McDOUGALD FUNERAL HOME and CREMATION SERVICES, Anderson.