With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Layafette Samuel Gist, 72, of Pamplico, SC, a retired Marines Veteran, who passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at MUSC, Florence, SC.

In Loving Memory

Layafette Samuel Gist, known as "Julio" entered into peaceful rest on September 25, 2024 at the age of 72. "Julio" was born on March 31, 1952 to the late Reverend Robert and Catherine Gist in Florence, South Carolina.

He attended public schools in Florence County and graduated from the historic Carver High School Cla of 1969 in Lake City, South Carolina. "Julio" was a member of the marking band and Troop 113 Boy Scouts of St James A.M.E. Church. After graduating, he joined the United States Marine Corps, and later retired. He was employed with City of Lake City for 10 plus years and later went to work for Marshall Lumber Company in Pamplico, South Carolina.

Layafette was affectionately called "Julio" by family and friends and was well known for his color changing eyes. He enjoyed sharing stories from his past life experience and had a great sense of humor. Layafette loved spending time with his family and friends and was a "DIE HARD STEELERS FAN!" At an early age, he joined Mt. Clair Missionary Baptist Church of Lake City, SC and later joined Mill Branch A.M.E. Church of Pamplico, SC.

Proceeded in death by his parents and two siblings, Robert Charles "Buddy" Gist and Melinda Faye Gist.

Leave to cherish a devoted significant other, Mozella Davis of Pamplico, SC; three children, Fontroy Randolph of Columbia, SC, Kenneth Rogers of Jersey City, NJ, and Lafelle Gist of Columbia, SC; and a daughter he raised as his own, Tontalaya Staggers of Lake City, SC; seven grandchildren, Naseem Randolph, Devon Randolph, Laila Randolph, Roderick Shaw, Zyre-Elle Staggers, Kamryhn Shaw and Railyn Shaw all of Columbia, SC; three siblings, Shirley Dicks, Margret Ann Gist of Lake City, SC and Cleo Gist of Columbia, SC; host of nieces, nephew and relatives that he loved dearly.

The family will be receiving friends and family at 773 East Lynhurst Road, Pamplico, SC.

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