ROUND O: Paul W. Ackerman, loving husband for eight years of Marie Driggers Ackerman, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at his home in Round O after a brief illness. He was 70 years old. Paul was born in Charleston April 7, 1953 a son of the late Alston Wilkes Ackerman and Edith Leila Maxcey Ackerman. He graduated from Winyah High School in 1971, received his Associate of Science Degree from Wingate College in 1973, and later graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Education in 1976. While attending Clemson, he was a proud member of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. Paul was a well-known loan officer at AG South, and retired after many years of dedicated service as vice-president in 2014. Paul was an active member of Bedon Baptist Church, where he served on many committees, was a Deacon, and sang in the choir. He also enjoyed the fellowship of the local Methodist Men’s Group, and was a member of the South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association. Paul was a man who was always smiling…telling a joke…caring for others…and helping those in need. His outgoing personality and infectious laugh could light up any room or lift the spirits on anyone that was feeling low. He enjoyed being outdoors playing golf, fishing, and cutting grass, and he was a rabid fan of anything associated with Clemson University…especially its football team. He loved to dance and have a good time, and his presence in the community he adored will truly be missed. In addition to his wife Marie, he is survived by his son Philip “Phil” Driggers Jr. (Leslie) of Round O, and by his granddaughter Gracie Driggers, also of Round O. He leaves behind his sister and brother-in-law, Richard and Helen Ackerman Black of Pawley’s Island, their daughter Stacey Black Thompson (Justin), and their granddaughter Ryleigh Trinidad Thompson. Paul is survived by his mother-in-law Mae S. Harrison, and by his brothers-in-law Buster Harrison (Robin), and Blaine Harrison (Becky). He has three special nieces: Brandy Maxey (Mark), Barbara Coffin (Carl), and Patty Walling (Floyd), as well as his beloved Goddaughter Amber Driggers Gantt (Roger). There is a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and wonderful friends that will remember him always. Funeral services will be held Saturday morning, July 15, 2023 at 11:00 at Bedon Baptist Church, with burial following in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 in the church sanctuary and in lieu of flowers, they request that memorials be made to either the American Heart Association or to the Bedon Baptist Church Roof Fund. Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro is in charge of arrangements.
