News Summary
The Rock Hill community unites in remembrance of Andrew Wilkerson, Patricia James, and D. Jeffery Sligh, who have all passed away recently. Each individual left a profound impact on their families and the community at large. Wilkerson, 28, was a dedicated family member; James, 86, was a respected legal secretary and community leader; and Sligh, 65, was a beloved music educator and mentor. Their legacies of service and love inspire those they have left behind.
Rock Hill, SC – The community is coming together to mourn the tragic loss of three beloved individuals: Andrew “Drew” Dylan Wilkerson, Patricia L. James, and D. Jeffery Sligh. Each individual made significant contributions to the lives of those around them, leaving behind a legacy of love and service.
Andrew Wilkerson Remembered
Andrew “Drew” Dylan Wilkerson, aged 28, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. A lifelong resident of Rock Hill, he was the cherished son of Lee and Gina Wilkerson. The Wilkerson family is currently gathering at their home in Hartsville, SC, to support one another during this difficult time. Arrangements for Drew’s memorial service will be handled by Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home.
Tributes to Patricia James
Patricia L. James, who was 86 years old, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, in Jonesboro, Georgia. Born on August 14, 1938, in Sellers, South Carolina, Patricia was the daughter of Beatrice Burgess Dixon and John Dixon. Throughout her life, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Patricia graduated from Latimer High School in Latta, SC, and sought professional opportunities in New York, where she established herself as a highly regarded legal secretary in Brooklyn, known for her diligence and integrity.
Patricia was a respected member of her community, serving as a past Worthy Matron of the Daughters of Faith Chapter #72 and as Secretary of Queen Bathsheba Chapter #31 of the Order of the Eastern Star. In her off-time, she enjoyed traveling, gardening, dressing with flair, and watching her favorite television programs. She is survived by her daughter, Dr. Malaika Syphertt; her son, Michael James; her grandchildren, Christopher and Laila James; her great-grandson, Danger James; and numerous extended family and friends.
Legacy of D. Jeffery Sligh
D. Jeffery Sligh passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in Rock Hill, SC, at the age of 65. Born on February 7, 1960, in Westchester County, New York, he was the only child of David and Lona Sligh. Jeffery’s passion for music began in sixth grade when he started playing the piano. He pursued a career in music education, graduating from the University of South Carolina in 1983 and later completing graduate studies at Winthrop University.
He dedicated 28 years of his career to serving as Congressional Liaison, Senior Immigration Specialist, and District Deputy Administrator for U.S. Congressman John M. Spratt, Jr. Additionally, he worked as Assistant and District Director for Congressman Mick Mulvaney. Jeffery retired from Clinton College in May 2019 after an impactful 32 years as a music professor, where he earned the title of Teacher of the Year from the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce in 1998. He founded the Rock Hill Ecumenical Chorale, demonstrating his deep commitment to music and community.
A Celebration of Life service for Jeffery will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Oakland Baptist Church in Rock Hill. His family will host a visitation on March 14, 2025, at the same venue. Jeffery is survived by his husband, Tim Ward; his sisters, Arlechia Oakman and Donna Bryant; and an array of nieces, nephews, and in-laws. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rock Hill Symphony Orchestra in his memory.
Community Response
The Rock Hill community is reeling from the loss of these three individuals, each of whom was a pillar in their respective circles. Wilkerson, James, and Sligh are being remembered for their significant roles as family members, friends, and community leaders. Their legacies will continue to resonate, inspiring others to contribute positively to the lives of those around them.
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Additional Resources
- M.R.C. Funeral Home – Andrew “Drew” Dylan Wilkerson
- Legacy.com – Dottie Carter Obituary
- Robinson Funeral Home – Patricia L. James
- Legacy.com – Richard Williams Obituary
- Robinson Funeral Home – D. Jeffery Sligh
- Wikipedia: Rock Hill, South Carolina
- Google Search: Andrew Wilkerson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Rock Hill SC
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
