Walter L. Mintz

Walter LeRoy “Roy” Mintz, 94, the last of the old-time Little River fishermen passed peacefully in his sleep on September 18, 2022. At his death, his residence was about two blocks from the spot he was born.

He was born May 19, 1928 in Little River, the middle child of Robert Walter Mintz and Dorothy Elnita Carter. In addition to his parents, preceded in death by 3 brothers and 3 sisters, and the former wife and mother of his children, Doris Faye Meekins Mintz, Roy is survived by his dear wife, Linda Faye Mintz, children Sharon Theresa Mintz Yockey of Cincinnati, OH and Walter LeRoy “Buddy” Mintz (Mary) of Hemingway, SC, 3 grandchildren, Amanda Ellen Yockey (Steven) of Otway, OH; Dr. Robert Andrew Yockey of Fort Worth, TX; and Joshua David Mintz of Hemingway, SC, 3 great grandchildren; Jacob, Roger III (“Trey”), and Olivia; and many nieces and nephews.

A Deacon at Providence Primitive Baptist Church, diehard Clemson Tiger fan, long term IPTAY supporter, and theologist, Mr. Mintz comes from a long line of fishermen in Little River. Although he had several jobs in his life, selling insurance, furniture, and automobiles, and owning his own construction company for a while, the main job in his life was that of a commercial fisherman. He learned the trade from his father and uncle, who were well known fishermen in the area. Mr. Mintz had the pleasure of taking such well-known musicians such as Charley Pride and the R&B singing group the Tams out for deep sea fishing trips. He was also a marine surveyor and was endorsed by Lloyd’s of London, Farmers Insurance, and Liberty Mutual. Mr. Mintz loved to read, and many were amazed at his ability to do the “hard” crossword puzzles in ink.

Mr. Mintz served in the in the Korean War as a radar striker in the U.S. Navy on the destroyer U.S.S. Rooks from 1951-1953.

Pall bearers are Andrew Yockey (grandson), Joshua Mintz (grandson), Steven Collins (grandson in-law), Winkie Mintz (nephew), Randy Meekins (nephew), Chris Long (family friend), and Jamie Long (family friend).

Services will be Friday, September 23, 2022. The family will receive family and friends at 11:00 am, and the service with military honors will be held at 12:00, with Elder Robert E. Turner officiating. A gravesite prayer will follow at Bethel Primitive Baptist Cemetery in Hickmans Crossroads.

Upon the request of Mr. Mintz’ grandchildren, if possible, please wear the color blue to his service, Mr. Mintz’ favorite color, and the color of the ocean, which he dearly loved.

Psalms 107:23 – “They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters.”

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leefhandcrematory.com for the Mintz family.