Walter L. Staley III
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Walter Laird Staley III. Laird, as he was known to his friends and family, passed away on October 22, 2024, in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on August 9, 1958, in Conway, South Carolina, Laird was known for his unwavering commitment to others. A true South Carolinian, he was born and then raised in every corner of the state. From his birthplace in Conway, he spent a brief time in Clemson, while his father finished college. He then spent time living in Greenville and Lancaster, where he graduated high school in 1976. Laird studied engineering at Clemson University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with honors, from Western Carolina University, making lifelong friends along the way. Afterwards, he moved to Charlotte, where he met Susie, and the two were married in 1990. Eventually, they made their way back to Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and resided there the past 23 years.
Laird was a man who loved people, always willing to give a hand. A devout Christian, he was committed to serving in the church; from teaching Sunday school, until right to the end, serving on the parking team at their church, The Church at LifePark. Serving others was not something that he talked about, but something that he did for the joy of serving. Laird seemed to have the right tool for every job, always available and happily willing to help out neighbors, friends and family whenever they needed it.
Laird was a man of many interests. He was an avid outdoorsman, and was affiliated with many local organizations, including Ducks Unlimited, various hunt clubs and a variety of fishing clubs, such as Lowcountry Anglers and South Carolina Saltwater Sportfishing Association being just a few. His favorite fishing spot was none of your business, but he was always willing to take his friends along. He always had a new project he was working on in his garage, but his pride and joy was helping to restore and rebuild his son’s 1965 Ford Mustang.
Laird was the owner of a second generation family business, The Staley Company, where he prided himself on working with integrity and excellence; where loyalty was a pillar to the reputation of his work.
Laird is survived by Susan “Susie” Harbers Staley, his devoted wife of 34 years, and their two children, Rachel Staley Edison (Tylor) and Walter Laird Staley IV. He was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his unborn grandson, a prospect that filled him with joy and excitement. Laird is also survived by his parents, Walter Laird Staley, Jr. and Martha Ann Roberts Staley; his sister, Kimbaly Ann “Kasy” Staley Young; his nephews Ian Young (Rebecca), Adrian Young (Adrienne); his niece, Allison Young; among many others, and multiple cousins.