Donald E. Rochester

Donald E. Rochester, known to all as Don, passed away on March 11, 2026, at Wesley Commons Health and Rehabilitation Center after a courageous battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, which he had faced with determination since his diagnosis on February 5, 2021.

Born in Greenville and raised in Harleyville, South Carolina, Don was the devoted son of the late Evelyn and Steve Rochester. A graduate of Clemson University, he remained a lifelong follower of Clemson sports. He worked in real estate for thirty years before establishing Rochester Landscaping and raising Hereford-Angus cattle on the farm he cherished. He also served as an ACC/SEC track official for twenty-five years, beginning as a volunteer at Clemson meets and later officiating college events along the East Coast from Virginia Tech to Florida State. Known for his meticulous attention to accurate measurements, he brought fairness and integrity to every competition. An avid marathon runner, Don lived an active life grounded in service and commitment.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-six years, Becky; his son Wes of Greenwood, South Carolina; granddaughters Maggie and Susie; his brother Earl Rochester of Toccoa, Georgia; and his sister Judy Quarles of West Union, South Carolina. A man of deep faith, Don had served as both a Baptist and Presbyterian deacon. At the time of his passing he attended Greenwood Presbyterian Church of America while remaining a member of Clemson PCA.

He will be remembered for his loyalty to family, his love of the land, and the quiet integrity he brought to every endeavor.