Cora Fogle Watford, of Orangeburg, S.C., passed peacefully on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Magnolia’s of Santee, following a brief illness. Born on October 17, 1936, in the heart of Orangeburg, Cora’s life reflected a devotion to her family, her community, and to all those fortunate enough to know her.

A proud 1955 graduate of Orangeburg High School, Cora was determined and bright, continuing her education at Winthrop College, where she graduated in 1959. Cora’s love story blossomed alongside S. Homer Watford, her devoted husband. Together, they built not only a home but also two respected family businesses, owning and operating Blu Gas of South Carolina which was sold in 1989 forming Carolina Propane along with their three sons in 1994. Their partnership exemplified loyalty, hard work, and respect—a legacy that lived through every day at the business and within the walls of their home.

Cora had a profound gift for connecting with people. She loved people, and it showed in every welcoming smile and every act of kindness. For friends, neighbors, and customers alike, her warmth was steady and genuine.

She cherished her role within her family. Left to honor her memory and mourn her passing are her sons, Tommy Watford (Jodie Jones) and Allen Watford (Theresa); her three grandsons and two great-grandsons. As they navigate this loss, they remain a living testament to all that was loving and resilient in their mother, and "Nana."

Cora is now reunited with her beloved husband, S. Homer Watford; her son, S. Homer Watford, Jr.; and her parents, Frank D. Fogle and Annie Lee Hutto Fogle.

The family welcomes friends for visitation on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, Inc., 1012 Whitman St SE, Orangeburg followed by a funeral service held at 11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 2720 Broughton St, Orangeburg, where Cora will be laid to rest beside her loved ones. Rev. Ryan Tucker will be officiating.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Watty Watford, Wesley Watford, Spencer Watford, Dodd Stewart, Marion Plumb, and Jay Holmes.

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Martha Jones for the compassionate and devoted care shown to Cora. We are forever grateful for the love and dignity you provided.

We would also like to give a special thank you to Magnolias of Santee and Edisto Home Care and Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and excellent care you gave to our loved one.

Memorials in Cora’s memory may be made to First Baptist Church or First Baptist Church Soup Kitchen at 1240 Russell Street Orangeburg, S.C. 29115.

Cora Fogle Watford’s legacy is one of quiet dignity, heartfelt care, and enduring love. In honoring her memory, we remember the joy she brought, the lives she brightened, and the loving mark she leaves on all who knew her.