Henry Ray Yelton, 80 of Columbia, SC, passed away on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Born in Charleston, SC, on December 26, 1945, he was the son of the late Herman and Vera Coats Yelton

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Henry is survived by his wife, Deborah (Janie) Manley Yelton, three sons, Grady Yelton (Meredith), Michael Batchelor, Joey Pender (Megan) and seven grandchildren, Cole Conner (Stacey), Shelby Yelton, Cameron Yelton, Laney Batchelor, Bree Batchelor, Carter McKie, Caden Pender and one great granddaughter, Adi Yelton. He also leaves behind his beloved companion, Bear.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Robert (Bobby) Eugene Yelton and Grady Michael Yelton.

Henry was a Master Plumber and the owner of Yelton Plumbing, LLC. Before owning his own plumbing company, Henry worked for Shular Plumbing for 32 years. He was well known throughout the plumbing industry. His business never needed to advertise, and his phone rang all the time. He had many referrals from former customers. He shared his knowledge and skill with his sons and many young men that worked with him. He enjoyed working with his wife and his children throughout the years. Henry lived a life of service to others; he gave of his time, his talents and his skills.

Henry was a member of Eau Claire Baptist Church and enjoyed his summers in the mountains at Riverside Campground in Cruso, North Carolina.   

We will all miss Henry for his smile, his funny faces and his stories about life. May we all celebrate his life and remember him for his loving heart and joy of life.

Funeral Services will be held at Eau Claire Baptist Church, 4427 North Main Street, Columbia, SC on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Visitation will be at 12 noon, and the service will begin at 1 p.m. Following the service, the graveside service will be at Woodridge Memorial Park, 138 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, SC.