DeAndre was born in Easley on October 22, 1997 to Kevin Vashaun Mansell (Lori) of Williamston and Melissa Lynn Phillips (Christopher Gorham) of Clemson. "Big Baby" as he was known by his family, knew from the moment they laid eyes on him he would be their pride and joy. As time went on, they learned very quickly that he and his father would be "two peas in a pod" because they were so much alike, and that he would always love his mama "till the wheels fall off". Growing up, "Big Baby" turned into "Big Country" for all of his friends and those who he loved. He prided himself on being the center of attention at every event he attended, and had an infectious smile that would light up any room. Big Country loved life. He enjoyed playing football, bowling, skating, and placed 3rd in the State finals heavyweight wrestling in 2016. He never met a stranger, and would always find someone to talk to and make a new friend whenever he went somewhere. Big Country truly loved life. He loved being a daddy, loved being a husband, loved being a big brother to C.J., loved music, and loved to go eat. With everything he loved, he was also very hard-headed. Quick to tell you what he thought and if you didn't like it, you could get over it. You could always tell if he liked you by the music he played when you were around him. All in all, he truly loved everyone, and just genuinely enjoyed life.
In addition to his loving wife, parents, and step-parents, Big Country is survived by his son: Kaiden McKeithan of Liberty; three brothers: C.J. Gorham of Clemson, Jaylen Parks of Williamston, and Corey Morgan of Williamston; his maternal grandparents: Saundra "Mama" Phillips (Tommy George) of Greenwood and Barry Phillips (Jan) of Pickens; his paternal grandparents: Julia Telley (John) of Easley and Roosevelt Mansell (Glenda) of Greenville; his maternal great-grandmother: Nancy C. Anthony of Pickens; his paternal great-grandmother: Ruby Lomax of Easley; and his God-Parents: Robbie Davis of Easley and Melissa Bowens (Bryant) of Easley. Big Country is also survived by two nieces, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends.
Funeral Services will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Friday, July 23, 2021 in the Chapel of Dillard Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Pickens. The family requests that if you have boots and jeans, to wear them to the service to honor Big Country and the life he lived.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at Dillard Funeral Home.
The family will be at their respected homes.
Flowers are accepted.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.dillardfunerals.com. Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the family.
