James "Tony" Cantrell

Moore, SC – James “Tony” Cantrell, 75, passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was the son of the late Fred A. and Iva Belle Taylor Cantrell and the loving husband of 54 years to Susan Heatherly Cantrell. Born in Simpsonville, South Carolina, Tony lived a life marked by dedication, strength, and deep love for his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a member of the 101st Airborne Division. Following his military service, he devoted over 38 years to Mitsubishi Polyester Film, where he worked in Research and Development until his retirement. Tony cherished his family. He was incredibly proud of his children and all they accomplished and he adored his grandchildren and the joy they brought. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a quick wit and a gift for making others laugh. Tony could brighten even the hardest days. No matter the circumstances, he carried a smile and never complained, choosing instead to share jokes and kindness with those around him. When his health allowed, Tony enjoyed camping, watching races, and cheering on just about any sport. He was a faithful member of Burnsview Baptist Church and attended regularly until his health declined. Tony showed remarkable strength and perseverance, fighting three different cancers over a span of ten years with courage and grace. He will be remembered for his unwavering love, his laughter, and the light he brought into the lives of others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31 In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, James “Brian” Cantrell (Kyle) and their children, Aiden and Katie of Woodruff; his daughter, Erica Burgess (Ricky) of Taylors; his daughter, Tarra Schmidt (Chris) and their children, Lindsey of Greer, Taylor Lee (Adeline) of Taylors, and Christian of Greer; his siblings, Tina Murphy of Campobello and Debra Adams (Clarence) of Jasper, FL; as well as his furbaby, Sophie. Tony is preceded in death by his granddaughter, Caroline Heatherly Stevens; and his siblings, George Cantrell, Carolyn Cockcroft, Helen Hand, Virginia Hannon, Johnny Cantrell, Janette Cowart, and Edward Cantrell. A special thanks to Spartanburg Regional Hospice House for their outstanding comfort and care and to the wonderful nurses at Gibbs Cancer Center at Pelham Medical Center. In memory of Tony, donations may be made to Burnsview Baptist Church, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Wounded Warrior Foundation, or Gibbs Cancer Society. The family will receive friends on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 3:00 PM – 3:45 PM at Burnsview Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life will begin at 4:00 PM. Pastor Tim Huckaby and Reverend Curtis Marshall will officiate.

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James "Tony" Cantrell

September 26, 1950 - April 4, 2026