Louise B. Debruhl

Louise Brown Debruhl, 85, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025 in Columbia, South Carolina, at her daughter’s side, after a long illness.

Born December 1, 1939, in Clarendon County, a daughter of the late Willie Delbert Mims and the late Ella Lou Atkinson Mims. Louise lived a life filled with grace, warmth, and quiet strength. She had a beautiful spirit and an extraordinary ability to see the best in everyone she met. Her generous heart touched all who knew her, and she showered her family with love throughout her life.

Louise especially cherished her role as a mother and grandmother treasuring her role in helping to raise her beloved grandson, Caleb. She loved her family deeply and remained a steady source of light, even as her health declined.

Louise devoted her working years to the manufacturing industry, leaving a mark with her diligence and dedication. A woman of joy and vitality, Louise lit up every room she entered. Throughout her life she loved dancing, and singing and was especially known for her ability to grow the largest sunflowers in town. An animal lover, her beloved dog Penny held a very special place in her heart. Despite facing a series of illnesses, Louise never lost her light. Her resilience and unwavering love remain an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be forever missed and remembered with great affection.

She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers—C. L., Archie, Elvin, and Melton Mims—and her sister, Lelia Mae McCook. Despite these losses, her generous heart and ability to see the best in everyone she encountered were unwavering. Louise had a beautiful spirit and touched all who knew her with her kindness.

Residing in Columbia, South Carolina, Louise was a beloved mother and grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Brenda K. Hickman of Turbeville; her son, Michael A. (Susan) Barfield of Lexington; and her daughter, Linda A. Brown of Columbia. Her legacy is carried forward by her five grandchildren—Ray (Becky) Hickman, Jason (Pam) Hickman, Katie Hickman, Reese (April) Hickman, and William Caleb Brown—along with eleven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her brothers, W. D. (Michelle) Mims of Quincy, FL, and Allen (Edith) Mims of Turbeville, and many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 6 - 8 PM on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Floyd Funeral Home, 136 E. Main Street, Olanta, SC and at other times at the home of her daughter Brenda Hickman, 2475 Horse Branch Road, Turbeville, SC.

A funeral service will be held 3pm on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in the chapel of Floyd Funeral Home with Rev. Becky Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Pine Dale Pentecostal Holiness Church Cemetery.

Louise's family will honor her memory with both active and honorary pallbearers. Active pallbearers include Ray Hickman, Junior Hickman, Chris Lewis, Quinton Blackwell, Charles Blackwell, and Josh Hickman. Honorary pallbearers will be Legrand Welch, David Jordan, Caleb Brown, and Reese Hickman.

The family request that floral arrangements be delivered to Floyd Funeral Home, 136 E. Main Street, Olanta, SC.

Arrangements are provided by Floyd Funeral Home, Inc. Louise Debruhl will be forever missed and remembered with great affection for the joy and love she brought to those around her.