Jerry Harling Baskin

Jerry Harling Baskin, born on February 16, 1945, in Simpsonville, South Carolina, entered his heavenly home on June 16, 2024, at 7:09 AM at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center in Spartanburg, SC. Jerry was the son of the late John Edward Baskin and Ruby Harling Baskin. He grew up on a dairy farm in Simpsonville, SC, where he learned the value of hard work alongside his brothers. He attended Simpsonville Elementary School and Hillcrest High School, graduating in the class of 1963. Jerry then went on to Newberry College, where he earned a degree in Accounting and Business. Jerry started his career with Winn Dixie as an internal auditor and later joined Bigelow Sanford, Inc. in 1972, where he worked as a Senior Inventory Accountant and Supervisor. He worked primarily in Greenville, SC, with a temporary assignment in Summerville, GA. Jerry continued his career with Mohawk Industries at the Landrum Plant until his retirement in 2009. He resided in Inman, SC, at 241 Rector Road until his passing. On November 8, 1969, Jerry married the love of his life, Brenda Irene Blackwell Eubanks Baskin. Brenda, who passed away on June 2, 2019, brought two children into their marriage: Stephen Eubanks and Allison Eubanks. Together, Jerry and Brenda had a daughter, Andrea Baskin Evans.

Jerry is survived by his three children: Stephen Eubanks (Melanie) of Tunnel Hill, GA, and their children Aaron Eubanks (Elizabeth), Brittany Eubanks Enloe (Drake), and Landon Eubanks; Allison Malsch (Wayne) of Inman, SC, and their children Nathan Malsch (Carla) and Braden Malsch (Megan); and Andrea Baskin Evans (Brian) of Lyman, SC. Jerry was a proud grandfather to his great-grandchildren Zaya Eubanks, Owen Eubanks, Emma Malsch, Braelynn Malsch, and Rileigh Malsch. He is also survived by his siblings: John Baskin of Wilmington, OH, David Baskin of Canton, NC, and Susan Baskin-Jones of Simpsonville, SC. Jerry shared a special bond with his sister, Susan, and his sister-in-law, Sandra Blackwell of Inman, SC. Jerry had special nieces and nephews: Glenn Blackwell, Brent Blackwell, and Laura Baskin Passmore. Brent is married to Liz Blackwell, and they have two daughters, Madison and Morgan. Laura has two children, Ethan and Addison.

Jerry was a man of many passions. He loved fishing with his dear friend Jerry Gosnell and spent many happy hours on the waters of Lake Russell and Lyman Lake. He was also an avid gardener, teaching his children the joys of growing vegetables. His garden flourished with corn, green beans, tomatoes, squash, watermelons, cantaloupes, okra, green peppers, and cabbage. Jerry was also a talented cook, known for his famous mac and cheese and delicious white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. In high school, Jerry played the trumpet and French horn in the band. He also played football, showcasing his versatility and dedication in various activities. Jerry was a dedicated member of Holly Springs Baptist Church in Inman, SC, serving as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and the chief cook for the Men on Missions group. For the past 37 years, Jerry found his happy place at Edisto Beach on Edisto Island, SC. He cherished the time spent there with family, creating countless memories that will be treasured forever.

Jerry was a strong man of Christian faith who loved Jesus, and his entire life reflected that love for his Savior. He found his main comfort in Jesus throughout the years and shared his faith openly with everyone he met. His favorite Bible verse was Isaiah 53:6 (NASB): "All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him."

Jerry's warmth and kindness touched many lives. He valued the camaraderie with his Hillcrest High School friends, with whom he enjoyed monthly breakfasts.

A visitation will be held on June 19, 2024, from 1:30 to 2:45 PM, followed by a celebration of life service at 3:00 PM at Holly Springs Baptist Church, 251 Hannon Road, Inman, SC. Following the celebration of life service, there will be a graveside service. The services will be led by Rev. Ben Whitmire, Senior Pastor at Holly Springs Baptist Church, Dr. Timothy Clark, Retired Senior Pastor from Holly Springs Baptist Church, and Rev. Aaron Eubanks, Executive Pastor of Ministry at Concord Baptist Church in Clermont, GA. The family is currently gathering at the home of Sandra Blackwell at 250 Rector Road, Inman, SC.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holly Springs Baptist Church in memory of Jerry Baskin.

Jerry will be remembered for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and the immense love he had for his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, love, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.