Edwin “Crunchy” Rhinehart

Gaffney, SC - - Edwin “Crunchy” Clark Rhinehart, 73, of 901 Cherokee National Highway, went home to be with Jesus on Friday, August 21, 2026. Born in Spartanburg, he was the son of the late Charles and Mildred Rhinehart.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra C. Rhinehart; two children, Mollie R. Vassey (Jeff) and Chief Master Sergeant, Martin B. Rhinehart (April) of Georgia; seven wonderful grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Nicholas Vassey, John Vassey, Emma Elizabeth Adair Vassey, Mason Rhinehart, Gabe Rhinehart, Will Rhinehart and Nolan Rhinehart; also left to cherish his memory are three sisters-in-law, Judy Bagwell (Jimmy), Marie C. Linder and Kaye Cash; along with numerous nieces and nephews. He also was well-loved by two grand fur babies, Daisy and Rosie. Edwin was preceded in death by two brothers-in-law, William Cash and Dr. Lee Linder.

Edwin, known as “Crunchy” was retired from Allied Universal. Throughout their marriage, Edwin and Sandra were caregivers for numerous people including children, grandchildren, in-laws, parents, nieces, nephews and dogs. Edwin loved many sports and was a huge fan of the Gaffney Indians and the South Carolina Gamecocks. He was an avid NASCAR fan and he shared his love for racing with his oldest grandson, Nicholas. Edwin was a great friend to many people and was a member of Cherokee Creek Baptist Church.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00AM on Monday, August 24, 2026 at Cherokee Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with Dr. Bob Finley and Mr. John Vassey officiating. The family will receive friends after the service at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Cherokee Creek Baptist Church, 501 Buck Shoals Road, Gaffney, SC, 29341.

The family will be at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Mollie and Jeff Vassey, 132 Planters Drive.

An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com

Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, SC