With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Donnie  Pressley,  87, of Kingstree, SC, husband of Bertha Lee Pressley, who passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026.

Life Reflections

There are some people whose lives leave footprints so deep upon the hearts of others that time itself can never erase them. Donnie "Dee Dee" Pressley was one of those rare soul—a man of unwavering faith, unmatched work ethic, quiet strength, and unconditional love. His life was not simply lived; it was poured generously into his family, his church, his friends, and everyone blessed enough to know him.

Donnie "Dee Dee" Pressley was born on August 11, 1938, in Kingstree, South Carolina, to the late Ernest "Bubba" Pressley and Susana "Sugar" McKnight Pressley. He was the fifth of eleven children and was raised with strong faith, deep love for family, and an unmatched work ethic that would define his life. At an early age, Donnie accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was raised in Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in the Cedar Swamp community of Kingstree, South Carolina, where he later served faithfully on the trustee board. He attended Williamsburg County schools and completed his education at Tomlinson High School.

In the 1950s, Donnie and his family moved to South Florida seeking greater opportunities. In 1956, he met the love of his life, Bertha Lee Wilson. After a short but beautiful courtship, they returned to Kingstree, South Carolina, where they were united in marriage on March 11, 1957. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, sacrifice, and devotion, recently celebrating an extraordinary 69 years of marriage. Donnie was the true definition of a hardworking man. A devoted husband, father, provider, and friend, he often worked two full-time jobs to ensure his family was cared for.

Through determination and self-teaching, he mastered carpet installation, tile work, and home repairs, creating a side business that further supported his loved ones. His hands built more than homes — they built security, stability, and a legacy for generations to come. After nearly 30 years of dedicated service, Donnie retired from Ed Morse Chevrolet in Lauderhill, Florida, in the early 2000s. Even in retirement, he remained active and dependable, always willing to lend a helping hand. He enjoyed fishing, horses, dogs, NASCAR racing, sports, and playing the lottery, finding joy in life's simple pleasures.

Donnie leaves to cherish his loving memory: his devoted wife of 69 years, Bertha Lee Pressley; his beloved children, Reginald Wilson (Valarie), Marshall Pressley (Cleriece), Mary Lois Pressley-McKenzie, Velden Pressley, and Jason Pressley; siblings, Samuel Pressley (Albertha), Alice Kneather Wright (Roosevelt), James "Poney" Pressley, and Elizabeth Ernestine Thompson; sisters-in-law, Betty Pressley, Evangeline Pressley, and Edna Cole Pressley; bonus daughters, Willia Mae Brewington and Esther McCullough; 15 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his firstborn son, Donald "Pee Wee" Pressley; grandchildren, Lavon Pressley and Myosha Proby Pressley; siblings, Fred Haven Pressley, Ernest Lee Pressley, Rosa Margie Green, Lawrence Ranell Pressley, Robert Pressley, and O'Neal Pressley; brothers-in-law, Sammie Wilson Jr., James Green, and Devon Thompson; and sisters-in-law, Gloria Pressley, Mary Pressley, and Mildred Edwards. Donnie's life was a beautiful reflection of love, faith, humility, and sacrifice. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

"Well done, thy good and faithful servant."

arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Kingstree, SC. 843-354-2292.