Dan “Cooter” Connelly

Dan Marvin "Cooter" Connelly of Hampton, S.C. passed away February 23, 2025, at the age of 79. Born January 23, 1946, in Jasper County, S.C., he was the son of the late Percy Lanier Connelly, Sr. and Emma Tuten Connelly.  He was a 1963 graduate of Estill High School. In 1966, Dan married Sally Haigler, his beloved wife of fifty-nine years. Dan graduated from Clemson University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education. He received his Master of Science in Wildlife Biology also from Clemson. Dan began his professional career as a district wildlife biologist for the state of North Carolina before becoming the manager of Silver Bluff Audubon Sanctuary in Kathwood, South Carolina for thirty-four years. His life's work was promoting forestry, wildlife management, and wildlife conservation.

After retiring he and Sally returned to his family farm in Hampton, South Carolina. While living in Kathwood, Dan was a member of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church where he served in various leadership roles. After moving to Hampton, He worked with the Hampton County Historical Society, most recently serving as President. Always farming and working, he shared the bounty of his garden with his community.

Dan was predeceased by his brother Percy Lanier Connelly, Jr. and his sister Emma Jean Connelly Hill. He is survived by his sister, Claire Connelly Priester; his beloved wife Sally Haigler Connelly; and his son and best friend David Joseph Connelly (significant other Heather Wiegand) and also many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at Hampton United Methodist Church, 204 Elm Street West Hampton, S.C. 29924 at 2 pm of Friday, February 28th, with burial to follow at Hopewell First Baptist Church Cemetery, 6404 Hopewell Road Estill, South Carolina 29918.

Friends may call at the church 1 hour prior to service beginning.

Memorials may be sent to Hampton County Historical Society, Post Office Box 152, Hampton, South Carolina 29924 or the Clemson Alumni Association, 109 Daniel Drive, Clemson, S.C. 29631.

Peeples-Rhoden Funeral Home is assisting the Connelly family during this time.