Donald Rizer

Donald Earle Rizer February 20, 1951 October 14, 2016 GREENVILLE- Don Rizer, age 65, died suddenly at his home on October 14, 2016. Born in Olar, South Carolina to Earle and Melle Kirkland Rizer on February 20, 1951, Don grew up in Denmark where he made lifelong friends in the town, high school and on the Edisto River. In 1973, he graduated from Furman University, cum laude in history, religion and English. Don received a full scholarship to study theology at the Candler School of Theology, Emory University. Although he left rural South Carolina for Greenville and Atlanta, he would always return home to visit his parents and the river he loved. After attending Emory, he taught history and religion at Denmark Olar High School before attending the University of South Carolina School of Law. After graduating in 1980, he was admitted to the SC Bar and clerked for the Honorable James Price and the Honorable Frank Epps following law school. After the judicial clerkships, he began his legal career as a bank trust officer in Greenville, SC. Don's natural gift for exceptional cooking became his trademark. He established Don Rizer Catering in the late 1980s and it soon became his passion and full time pursuit. His mother, Melle was his right hand help in the early years. She would travel from Denmark to Greenville to help Don with many elegant events. Don donated dinners, receptions and parties to many Greenville local charities. Don's easy manner and gentle style allowed him to make many new friends wherever he went. During high school and college Don developed an interest in antiques and decorating. He shared his decorating talent with family and friends. Don restored an old home in downtown Greenville to a showplace filled with architectural details he selected and lovely furnishings he collected for decades. Don's father died in 2011. Don cared for his mother at his home until her death in 2014. He is survived by his brother, Frank Rizer (Williene), of Bamberg, South Carolina and his nephew, Kirkland Lee Rizer. Don leaves behind a legion of friends who were also his family. These friends were in constant awe of his many interests and talents. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at 2:00 PM graveside at Historic Mizpah United Methodist Church at Buford's Bridge, South Carolina. He will be buried in the family plot next to his parents. Frank and Williene Rizer will receive friends and family at their home, 705 Pine Street, Bamberg, South Carolina immediately following the service. A memorial service will be held in Greenville, SC celebrating Don's life at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Don's name to Bethel Park United Methodist Church, 25 Beech Avenue, Denmark, South Carolina 29402 and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra, 200 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601 would be appreciated. Cooner Funeral Home, 287 McGee Street, Bamberg, SC is in charge of the arrangements.