Obituary
Guest Book
1951
2017
Raymond Douglas Bortone, 65, of Woodruff, SC, passed away with his family by his side on June 10, 2017.
Doug, as he was known to his family and friends, lived a life of service. He married the love of his life, Bitten Rouser Bortone, in 1991, sharing over 26 years together. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and a retired Lieutenant with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Department, earning Officer of the Year in 1997 and the Medal of Valor in 2004 for his personal sacrifice in saving the lives of others at a local hotel fire. He also received Letters of Commendation in 2004 and 2009.
When Doug was a Community Patrol Deputy at Oakview Village, a government-rent neighborhood, he wanted to help the children who lived there. There was no playground for the community, and the children who lived there had little to do. Doug saw an opportunity in a parcel of land nearby. He envisioned a baseball field where the children could learn about sportsmanship, teamwork, and achievement, and improve their self-esteem. Doug’s vision was realized with the help of a few local businesses.
One of Doug’s proudest achievements was that he found every missing child he was responsible for locating during his years with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Department.
Doug’s passion was serving others. He served his country, his community, his church, and his family. He served on missions for Abner Creek Baptist Church where he was a member, specifically as organizer for the annual Tee It Up for Toronto golf tournament. He also volunteered for Meals on Wheels.
At the heart of his service was his family, who he loved immensely. His wife, his children, and his grandchildren were the lights of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bitten Bortone; his daughters, Kacie Servies (James) and Keyah Bradley (Jason); his grandchildren, Cole Davis, Emily Servies, Grace Servies, Tristan Bradley, and Gabriel Bradley; his great-grandchild, Calea Winter Corwin; and his brother, Greg Bortone.
The family will receive friends and family on Tuesday, June 13th from 6:00-8:00pm at The Mackey Mortuary. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 14th at 11am at Abner Creek Baptist Church in Greer, SC, and military honors will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Abner Creek Missions Fund to benefit the Tee It Up for Toronto golf tournament. Checks should be made payable to Abner Creek Baptist Church and mailed to 2461 Abner Creek Rd, Greer, SC 29651.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Century Drive.
June 16, 2017
Debbie Knebel
Bitten, so sorry for your loss....may the good memories sustain you and your family. My thoughts and prayers of comfort.
June 15, 2017
Hyder Felicia
So sorry for your loss Bitten, my thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
June 14, 2017
Rhonda Morrow
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss, dear Bitten. Praying God's grace to you and your family! May He wrap His arms around you and hold you tight during the hard days ahead. Praying for you all.
Love,
Rhonda
June 13, 2017
Jan M. Kiser
Doug was a wonderful man. I am sure he is smiling down at us all right now just waiting for us to reunite with him in heaven. What an incredible privilege it was to work with him at the Sheriff's Office for so many years, but even more so to call him my friend. Thank you Bortone family for sharing his life with us and our community.
June 13, 2017
Caroline Norris Smart
His big smile & gracious spirit are always unbreakable. I will never forget the lessons of humility & "just do the right thing" from Mr. Doug. Including being dropped off to high school from the back of his police car! Those helped shaped who I am, & I am forever grateful.
June 13, 2017
Scott Belcher
Doug was our friend , And that was good enough . Love Scott and Kathy Belcher
June 13, 2017
Tracy Mathews
From the first time I met Doug, I could tell he was the real deal. Always had a smile on his face and a kind word to help your day seem a little brighter. Doug will always be in our hearts and minds. RIP Doug
June 13, 2017
Finley
Greenville County has lost a great man, Knew Doug many years. Always had time to say hello and that laugh.... R.I.P. Finley
June 13, 2017
Rosa Harris
I am at a loss for words over Doug. He always called me his sister and welcomed me into his home and family. His everlasting smile always made you feel loved. Imagining him gone from this earth is hard. But now he is truly home with his father, God. I know that he is the Angel of Protection in heaven, now. So, please know that such a man as Doug will never be forgotten and will be forever loved by us all. My Dear Bitten and family, May God continue to guide you and Bless all of you!
Love Always, Rosa (His Sister)
June 13, 2017
Rosa Harris
I am at a loss for words over Doug. He always called me his sister and welcomed me into his home and family. His everlasting smile always made you feel loved. Imagining him gone from this earth is hard. But now he is truly home with his father, God. I know that he is the Angel of Protection in heaven, now. So, please know that such a man as Doug will never be forgotten and will be forever loved by us all. My Dear Bitten and family, May God continue to guide you and Bless all of you! Love Always, Rosa (His Sister)
June 13, 2017
Monica Killen
Uncle Doug will dearly be missed. He was the glue to our family in so many ways. I knew I could always count on him to help if I needed anything! I know your hearts will hurt for a long time. Sending you lots and love and hugs from Charleston!!
June 13, 2017
Wayne & Karen Leonard
Doug truly made the world the best it could be. No matter what the situation, he stepped up to the plate and finished with a handshake, hug and smile that left you feeling took care of.
That smile was the best! You'll be sorely missed Doug.
June 13, 2017
Rick Franklin
In my years with the Sheriff's Office I never met a finer man. I know Doug will be missed by all who knew him. Our condolences to his family during this time of sorrow and prayers that God will ease their pain of Doug's passing.
June 12, 2017
Shirley Keaton
Mr. Bortone was the best of the best...loved that man's great laugh...he will be missed by all you knew and loved him. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
June 12, 2017
Tammy Lampley
You were a good man Doug. I was saddened to learn of your passing. For sure you are in a better place but I know you will be missed by your family and friends. My deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to your family.
June 12, 2017
Michelle Bunkofske
I am so sorry for your loss. Truley a great man!! Michelle B
June 12, 2017
James & Mary Preston
Doug was a very happy and thoughtful man who loved his family and community. Doug was a hard working individual and would give the shirt off of his back if needed. His smile and laugh were very infectious and would fill a room. He was married to the love of his life and will be missed by both family and community. God Bless you Doug , the love of family and people will go well in your heavenly place.
June 12, 2017
Renee Flynn
Doug was a huge part of mine and my children's life, as a surrogate dad to my kids in their early lives and a great friend to me. His wife Bitten being one of my oldest and dearest friends I am deeply sorry for the lose of this amazing man. He was one of the most upstanding, loving, caring men we have ever had the pleasure of knowing. You will be missed by all that knew you and loved you. God Speed my friend.
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