Robert Lee "Bob" Jirel, Sr., 85, of Leesville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 16, 2017. Born January 1, 1932 in Saluda County, he was the youngest son of the late Carl E. and Hassie Padgett Jirel. Mr. Jirel was a US Navy Veteran who served during the Korean War. He retired from Publix Supermarkets in 1994 in Lakeland, FL. He was member of Cocoa Beach Lodge #353 and a 32° Scottish Rite Free Mason, was an avid fisherman, and also enjoyed hunting and woodworking. He led his family by example and was respected and cherished by many.

Mr. Jirel was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Annie Joe Simpson Jirel; brothers, Carl E. Jirel, Jr., and David Jirel. He is survived by his son, Robert L. "Lee" Jirel, Jr. (Carol) of Chapin; daughters, Lynn Herrington of Monroe, GA, and Suzanne Principi of Aiken, SC; five grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister, Sarah Jirel LaRoche of Florida and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service for Mr. Jirel will be held 3 o'clock, Thursday, October 19th at Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens, 2603 Two Notch Road, Columbia with The Rev. Nicholas Perez officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:30 until 2:30 o'clock at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia. Memorials may be made to Rehoboth United Methodist Church, 936 Holley Ferry Road, Leesville, SC 29070.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Sheppard Helping Hands and MSA Hospice.