Hoke Waddy Batson, of Covington, passed away June 2, 2017 at 80 years of age. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Mr. Batson earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Clemson University. For a time, he served as mayor in the town of West Melbourne, Florida. Mr. Batson then settled in Covington where he was owner/operator of Peachtree Lighting - starting in 1982. In addition to being a successful business owner, Mr. Batson was a faithful member of Covington First United Methodist Church for over 30 years. He was also active in Lay-Witness Missions with the church. RV camping and playing golf were among Mr. Batson’s favorite ways to relax and enjoy life. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nelle Batson; and parents, Smith and Edna (McAlister) Batson.

Survivors include his wife, Joan Batson; son, Kevin Batson (Julie) of Marietta; step-children, Beth Hughes (Robin) of Greensville, SC, Ann Blankenship (Ernie) of Pawleys Island, SC, Greg Garrison of Greenville, SC, Mark Garrison (Michelle) of Travelers Rest, SC; grandchildren, Morgan, Meredith, and Lauren Batson; step-grandchildren, David, Drew, Max, and Samantha Garrison; brother and sister-in-law, Phil Batson (Beth) of Anderson, SC.

Funeral Services for Mr. Batson will be held, Monday, June 12, 2017, 10 a.m., at Covington First United Methodist Church, 1113 Conyers St., in Covington, with Rev. Dr. Doug Gilreath and Rev. Jan McCoy officiating. Interment will follow in Lawnwood Memorial Park, Covington. Friends may visit with the family at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, Sunday, June 11, from 5 – 8 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mr. Batson’s memory to Covington First United Methodist Church Food Ministry.