Edward Jean Westbrook

Jean was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where his father served in the Navy. Jean and his brother, Benny, enjoyed growing up as military brats and having adventures in all parts of the United States. Later, the family moved to Pickens, where Jean’s mother worked as a teacher at Pickens Junior High, and the brothers spent hours getting into mischief with their East Jones Avenue neighborhood buddies. Jean attended and graduated from Pickens High School in 1952 and was a proud member of the Blue Flame football team. Jean loved to share stories of his days as a Blue Flame and of the special moment he scored the very first touchdown on Bruce Field in Pickens. It was as a Blue Flame that Jean met his beautiful bride-to-be, Ida Katherine Allgood. Jean and Ida enjoyed over sixty years of marriage and had two daughters, Libby and Jeannie. The Westbrooks spent their lives together enjoying their family and the Pickens community. Jean attended Furman University and The University of South Carolina and continued to support Gamecock Athletics for the rest of his life. Jean also proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps and continued his service as an active member of the Marine Corps League of Pickens County. Jean was a member of Pickens First Baptist Church, where he served as a Sunday School teacher and poured into the lives of young people for many years. He retired from Ryobi, previously Singer Manufacturing, after forty years of dedicated service. He was a volunteer fireman for the Pickens Fire Department for many years and enjoyed the friendships he formed while faithfully serving his community. As a servant leader in his church and community, Jean was a Christian example to all who knew him.

He is survived by his two daughters: Libby W. Fisher and Jeannie W. Abercrombie of Pickens; sons-in-law: COL Lynn D. Fisher (R) and Chuck Abercrombie of Pickens; grandchildren: Dr. Ashley F. Butler (Stan), Josh Fisher, Zachary Abercrombie, and Stephanie Abercrombie, all of Pickens; and two great-grandchildren: Anslie and Carter Abercrombie of Pickens.

His loved ones will deeply miss their “Daddy Jean” and “Gaga” but know he is restored and rejoicing with the Lord and those family members and friends awaiting him in heaven.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Raleigh and Mildred Westbrook; his wife: Ida Katherine Westbook; and his brother: Captain Benny Westbook, USMC, Ret.

A private graveside service will be held.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Foothills (390 Keowee School Road, Seneca 29672) or Cafe Connections (c/o Get Up and Go Ministries/DBA Cafe Connections, 319 East Main Street, Pickens 29671).

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.