Mr. Stephen Lee Dutton
Mr. Stephen Lee Dutton
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Stephen Dutton Obituary
Born on October 13th, 1962 in Gaffney, SC, Lee planted his roots in Columbia, SC where he graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1984 with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and earned his Master of Public Administration Degree in 1986.
Lee served the State of South Carolina proudly for 38 years until his retirement in January 2025 as the Chief of Staff of the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services.
His outstanding professional career just scratches the surface of the impact he made in his community. As a committed Board Member of the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization, Lee was passionate about judging, fundraising, promoting its mission, and lifting the spirits of the delegates.
His unwavering devotion to the University of South Carolina and Gamecock Nation was more than just his efforts as board member of the Richland/Lexington Carolina Alumni Association and long time membership in the Gamecock Club. He made it a point to never miss a game and was everyone's biggest cheerleader, both in & outside the stadiums, and we will always remember his signature cheer: Go, Fight, Win!
Known for his huge personality, heart of gold, dapperness, and life-of-the-party charm, his memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved the most.
Lee made it a point to make every moment a celebration and we will keep his tradition alive with a memorial service at 3pm Sunday, March 23rd at Washington Street United Methodist Church, Christ Chapel, 1401 Washington St, Columbia, SC. A reception to follow at Tombo Grill, 4517 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC 29206, starting at 4:30pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the MUSC Department of Surgery Living Donor Institute and/or the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization.
Forever to thee! Go Cocks!
Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Gayle Kirby
February 13, 2025
The world has lost a gem. Lee was one of my favorite people; loved his friends and we sure loved him. Lee was a gourmet cook that I was lucky enough to enjoy on many occasions. He put his heart into everything he touched and you felt it.
There´s not enough space to share what an impact he made on so many people. Rest in peace my friend until we meet again.
Sandy Carriee-McCray
February 11, 2025
My sincere condolences goes out to Lee's family. He worked at DAODAS all the years that I worked for one of the 301 agencies of 34 years. He was a well dressed man and will truly be missed by his coworkers.
Beth Powell
February 9, 2025
My heart is broken to learn of Dutton´s death. He was a wonderful friend and he will be forever remembered. Hope there´s Gaffney´s Brown Market pimento cheese in heaven.
Andrena Scott
February 9, 2025
Lee and I worked at DAODAS together and I had to always keep needle and tread at my desk for him. A very stylish and elegant dresser matching to the Tee. I will always remember the time he told us when he leave this world he wanted to be reincarnated as a Champaign Dancer like the ones at SC SU, when the Gamecocks played them.
We will always and miss you Dutton. I will be looking for you next time I see the Champaign Dancers perform my dear friend. for your family.
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Jenny Bouknight
February 9, 2025
I have so many great memories of working for Lee. He was a wonderful boss and a wonderful friend. He was devoted to the mission of DAODAS and to serving the State of SC. Lee was smart and compassionate, fun & funny, and wise. He loved his Gamecocks, game days & Half-Cocked, the Carolina Cup, Miss South Carolina activities. Most of all, he loved his friends and family. I was lucky to have had him as a very important part of life for many years. Shalom, my friend. You will live in my heart forever.
Bettye Harrison
February 8, 2025
Lee and I worked together at DAODAS several years ago. I will always remember his humor and his dedication to the mission of DAODAS. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Tracey Belcher
February 7, 2025
Lee and I worked together at DAODAS. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends. Lee will truly be missed. This was so difficult for his DAODAS family when we heard he has gone home to be with the Lord. I will keep our memories alive because you was such a sweet soul and had the best sense of humor. I missed you when you retired. Couldn´t wait to see you come by and tell me that you were finally relaxing. YOU PUT IN 38 YEARS AND WAS SO DESERVING OF YOUR RETIREMENT. MY fondest moment was when I helped you with the computer in your office. My other special moment was giving you a plant for your work anniversay and you was so grateful. I think that was such a funny moment we shared. Im grateful I did get to tell you how much you were appreciated especially your dedication to coming in when you where so sick. Fly high Lee and take care until we meet again on the other side. Your a bright light and keep shining in heaven. I know God makes no mistakes even when we may not want to accept. No more pain and suffering no more. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
Frankie Long
February 7, 2025
Lee and I worked together at DAODAS for many years. He was a great advocate for the agency and I saw him all the time at Gamecock Football games. He will be truly missed and may his family find peace from God during this time.
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7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC 29223
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