Denny Lane Hite Sr.

Denny Lane Hite Sr., lovingly known as Pop, Nubby, and Hummingbird, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Lexington Medical Center. He was born and raised in West Columbia, South Carolina, a place that always felt like home to him and shaped the life he loved so deeply.

On June 21, 1958, Denny married the love of his life, Barbara Lee Rhoten Hite. Together they built a life rooted in family, hard work, and enduring love.

Denny was the son of the late John David Hite and Anna Martha Lown Hite. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Lee Rhoten Hite; brothers, Kenneth Merle Hite (Connie, of Chapin) and Jerry Wayne Hite Sr. (Brenda, of West Columbia), as well as his brothers-in-law, Richard Winsett and Boyd Rhoten (Suzanne).

He is survived by his sister, Bonnie Carolyne Hite Huff; his daughter, Elizabeth Hite Bashore (Donny), his son, Denny Lane Hite Jr.; grandchildren, Jessica Hunter Ryan (Benjamin), Ashley Hunter Vaughn (Chris), Rebecca Vaughn Seabrook (Jodee), Stefanie Hicks (Matt), and Dustin Bashore; grandchildren, Jennifer Hite and Forrest Lane Hite Jr. (Kristen); and seventeen great-grandchildren who were blessed to know and love their great-grandfather. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Suedella Rhoten Blackwell (Michael), David and Wesley Rhoten; and numerous nieces and nephews!

Denny spent many years working with dedication and pride, retiring from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. He also worked for Gulf Oil and later co-owned and operated H & H One Stop alongside his wife Barbara with Ronald and Marie Hook. His work ethic was strong, his handshake honest, and his word dependable.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—fishing, hunting, time spent at Santee, sharing candy with his great-grandchildren, memories made on Hite Street, and being outdoors. A member of Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church in Lexington, his faith quietly guided the way he lived and loved others.

Denny had a joyful spirit that showed itself on the dance floor, where he loved dancing and making dear friends at Bills Pickin’ Parlor. He was a proud and passionate Clemson Tigers fan, cheering them on with unwavering loyalty. (Gooo Tiiigerrrs!) He also adored his dog, Little Bit, who was never far from his side and brought him constant companionship.

Those who knew Denny will always remember his expressions that became part of family lore. When something caught him off guard or truly surprised him, he’d shake his head and say, “Get back,” usually followed by a grin. And when something didn’t quite measure up, he had a way of dismissing it with a dry, amused “Mickey Mouse,” a phrase that never failed to make those around him smile. These small sayings captured his humor, honesty, and the warmth he carried into everyday moments.

Above all, Denny was a family man. He was Pop—steady, present, and full of love. His legacy lives on in the stories told, the laughter shared, and the deep bonds of family he helped create.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.

Denny Lane Hite Sr. will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.