Erlene Backman Deese

Erlene Backman Deese, 86, of Cayce, was born in September 1935, and passed away surrounded by loved ones on July 30, 2022 after an extended illness. Erlene was the daughter of the late Clifton L. Backman and Elma Bell Backman. Erlene had been a Bellsouth Pioneer, retiring after nearly 40 years of employment and she was also a member of Westside Baptist Church in West Columbia. She is survived by her husband of over 40 years, James “Jim” Deese; daughter, Sandra Boatwright Keitt (Roy); grandchildren, Michelle Keitt Chavis (Jason), Christopher Sigler (John); along with numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brother, Pete Backman and her daughters, Kay Dunn and Marie Backey. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, West Columbia Chapel. Burial will follow in the neighboring Southland Memorial Gardens. The family will receive visitors from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to service at the funeral home. The family would like to thank Amedisys Hospice and Retire EASE for their hard work in caring for Erlene during these difficult times. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmansouthland.com for the Deese family.