As Hurricane Helene raged outside, John Savage checked on his grandparents, Marcia and Jerry, in Beech Island, South Carolina, to make sure they were safe. Despite hearing a few snaps, they seemed fine. However, shortly after, a massive tree crashed onto their bedroom, killing them. The family believes it was God’s plan for them to die together rather than one suffer without the other. John Savage found his grandparents hugging each other in the bed, indicating that Jerry had tried to shield Marcia from the tree.
The deaths of Marcia and Jerry Savage were part of the over 180 casualties caused by Hurricane Helene, making it one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history. Many victims, including the Savages, died as a result of falling trees on homes or cars. Among the deceased were also two South Carolina firefighters who were killed when a tree fell on their truck. President Biden traveled to the Carolinas to survey the widespread damage caused by the storm, which left many communities flooded, homes destroyed, and cell service disrupted. The storm took a toll on multiple states across the country.
Jerry Savage, a handyman who frequently worked as an electrician and carpenter, was described as a hard worker by his daughter Tammy Estep. Marcia Savage, a retired bank teller, was dedicated to her church and known for her passion for singing gospel music and cooking. The couple, married for over 50 years, was remembered as generous, kind, and humble by those who knew them. Despite living behind their grandparents’ house for many years, John and Katherine Savage had never experienced a tree falling on the property before, making the tragic event even more shocking.
The Savage family had warm memories of spending holidays at their grandparents’ house, where the family would gather for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter celebrations. A GoFundMe page was set up to help cover the funeral expenses for Marcia and Jerry Savage, who are survived by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Katherine Savage, their granddaughter, shared how her grandparents were always willing to help and support her and her children, showing their deep love for family. The tragedy of their deaths has been deeply felt by the entire community.
The immediate and everlasting love between Marcia and Jerry Savage was evident throughout their over 50-year marriage. Their grandchildren and family members remember their strong bond and the impact they had on their lives. In South Carolina, efforts are being made to provide disaster relief and recovery for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Donations to local nonprofits through the One SC Fund and volunteering opportunities are available for those looking to support the community in need. The state’s Emergency Management Division is also providing information on how people can contribute to relief efforts, donate clothes, or help food banks.
