Edward Sires Obituary

My childhood had some light in it because of you and everything you had done for me. God blessed us with you... And now you've been blessed and sent home. God bless you. Forever and Always - Ryan K. Cooper

Dr. Sires was a great principal. I am in forth grade. I was with him for 3 years at SES. When a class walked by him he would say hi to everybody by name. Besides my dad, he was one of the best men in the world. He knew my name since my first day of school. At the end of the year there would always be a day that we spent in his back yard fishing and he would tell us each good job just for picking up the rod right. I hated leaving SES because he wouldn't be my principal anymore. My brother even loved and he never went to school there, but Dr Sires played a puzzle with him and knew his name. I will always remember him.

As everyone else has said, I'm sure, Dr. Sires was very special to all of us. Our son, Buck was at SES from 1989 - 1993. And, Dr. Sires still remembered us everytime we saw him even though Buck is 25 now. His ability to communicate with the young people (and parents) at SES was amazing. We wish all of you the best. I know how difficult this is for all of you - time will not heal the pain, but it will help you to deal with it. Thinking of you-- David, Nancy & Buck Burke

My prayers go out to the Sires family as well as the SES family. I was a student teacher at SES in 2007. I have never seen a principal as involved in his school as Dr. Sires was. His teachers truly loved and respected him, making them want to do their very best job. I hope that one day I can work for a principal who is as dynamic and motivating as Dr. Sires was.

Carolyn and Family,
I just returned to town after vacation and saw this news in the paper. My heart is so sad for you. I know the last year has been extremely hard and my prayers go out to your family. I wish I could send hugs, but plese know you are in my thoughts. Linda Carson (Dr. Silgals office)

I was a student teacher at Summerville Elementary in 1994. I didn't realize how fortunate I was until I expereinced SES under the direction of Dr. Sires. He was often seen greeting the children, dressing up in costume to enhance curriculum, and teaching about the animals in the petting zoo. I have compared every principal to him in my fifteen year teaching career. I have never met anyone who even comes. Summerville has suffered a great loss. Our community is thankful for his innovative ideas, his compassion , and for spreading the love of reading!

Dear Betty, Amy and I were so saddened to hear of the loss of your son. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. God will comfort you. We love you Betty.

Shirley Mitchell and Amy Mitchell Fennell

My deepest condolences to the Sires family during their time of loss. I was a student at Summerville Elem. almost twenty years ago and have several fond memories of Dr. Sires. He was a wonderful man who always cared about the well being of his student/staff. I will always remember him and keep those memories close to my heart.

Dr. Sires family, it is with deep sympathy!" But, also great joy. I knew Dr. Sires when I was in high school and he was a great teacher then. He was also, my children's principal in Elementary School. And they also grew to love him." My Pray's are with your family." Min. Bertha P. Washington(Ridgeville, SC)

Thoughts and Prayers are with the Sires Family. Dr. Sires was truly an inspiration to everybody he touched. He will be greatly missed.

My deepest sympathy to the Sires family. Dr. Sires was a wonderful person, coworker and friend. He truly touched all of our hearts. Our prayers are with you.

We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to each of Dr. Sires' family members. We would also like to tell you how much we appreciate you sharing him with us. We're sure that there were nights when you wished he could be at home with you, but he had that board meeting,'Family Night Supper", and other countless events he had a responsibilty to attend.

We have so many memories of the years our daughter, Emily attended SES, from CD through 5th grade.

Emily wanted a pet. Dr. Sires told her that she could adopt a rabbit, but she had to go through the adoption process and get our approval. Well, Nibbles came home with a cage, water bottle and not only rabbit pellets, but fruit and veggies also.

Then there was the week in second grade when Emily decided that she wasn't going to go back to school. Dr. Sires found out that she couldn't find her library book, and reassured her that he would not let the librarian kick her out of school.

When she left her homework home one morning and was in tears because she thought Mrs. Yingling was going to get mad, Dr. Sires put her in his car and brought her home to get it. But he also got in trouble. We always told her that actions have consequences, but he saved her, while getting a scolding himself. He said he understood what I was saying, but he couldn't stand to see those tears.

We could go on and on. Dr. Sires had such an influence on Emily. She saw his passion in children and she now has that passion, also. She is a Teaching Fellow at College of Charleston, with a major in Elementary Education.

Remember all the many special memories each you have shared with him. He was a wonderful man, a father figure to so many children that didn't have a father in their lives. We will keep you in our prayers.

Dear Sires Family,
Our hearts ache for your loss. Gene's smile, laugh and love for children was so obvious to all that knew him. May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten. If you need anything-we are here for you.
Love,
Jerry, Kathy, Ryan and Andrew Bishop

Carolyn, Andrew and Alison,
It has been 20 years since I left my sons at SES,to begin school. I did not know your husband/dad at the time. I was soon to find out what a unique and caring man he was and I feel privileged to have had my sons attend SES. Gene empowered all the students to greater heights with his talents for leadership and education. Andrew you may remember Jed, Jason and Joseph Hubbard. We send our heartfelt condolences to all of you, but will always remember the best times and days in Summerville. We are now in Irmo SC, all Gamecocks, look us up if you ever need anything.
Love, prayers, and God's peace that passes understanding for all of you. The Hubbard family.

My condolences to Andrew and the Sires' family. Even though I wasn't one of Dr. Sires students I was a classmate of Andrew and I knew he was one of the sweetest, kindhearted, and caring person I ever knew. My prayers are with you.

The Riley and Mallard family

Dr. Sires was a very great and wise man...He loved everyone and was always there to help you..He even helped me and my family paint my Grandmothers house when she passed away 15yrs ago for "FREE" he never mind lending a helping hand.. He will be greatly missed..My hearts and prayers are with the family..

In a time when so many are willing to settle for the easy road, Gene Sires showed us by example that giving everything you have from the heart is the only way a job should be done. His compassion for all the children, adults and animals in his life was inspiring and unforgettable.

It was my privilege to be the Camp Sires Storyteller for many years and I will always treasure the memories.

May God bless you in your time of grief for your husband, son, father and sibling.

This just doesn't seem real! About two and a half months ago, I was visiting my mother in Summerville during my week of summer vacation. We were having breakfast at Eva's one morning and ran into Mr. Sires there, along with Alison and her husband and precious baby, and some friends who had joined them. It was so great to get to visit for a few minutes, do a little catching up, and see that precious grandson he was so proud of!

I was in Mr. Sires' homeroom at the Intermediate High School when I was in ninth grade, 1978-79 school year. I look back on that year with fond memories, and he gets a lot of credit for that! Imagine starting out the day in his classroom, even though it was only for the brief 15 minutes or so of homeroom. What a way to start the school day! He and I argued Clemson-Carolina off and on, and I remember that Clemson beat Carolina that year. I had fun quoting the newspaper's headline, "Southern Fried Chicken - Tiger Style" every time I thought I could get away with it, and he would always come back with something just as silly and we'd both laugh.

About 12 or 13 years ago or so, Gene and Carolyn were here in Nashville for a convention, and I got to spend a little time with them while they were in town. We had a blast!

When I think of Gene Sires, I think of Rick Warren's book, "The Purpose Driven Life." Mr. Sires lived his life with a purpose, and it was clear to all of us who were fortunate enough to know him. He found his purpose, and more importantly, God's purpose for him, and lived it out beautifully.

I wish I'd known in late June/early July when I ran into him at Eva's that it would be the last time I'd see him, at least this side of Heaven. I'd have talked with him a little longer, hung onto the moment just a bit tighter.

To the Sires family, I haven't seen or talked to any of you (except Alison and her family in Eva's that morning) in years. Please know that, along with everybody else who's posted their messages here, I share fond memories of Mr. Sires and will miss him terribly. I thank God for the gift he was given and that he used so beautifully. I will continue to hold you all in prayer through this time, and wish with all my heart that I could be in Summerville for the service!

my children have went to summerville elementary since kindergarten and dr.sires was the one who always made them feel safe and happy to go to summerville..we are deeply saden to hear about this loss.he was an angel on earth and now is one in heaven!!may god bless his family and friends at this time..we will miss you!!andrew miller and danyell doss and jennifer doss..

When I think of Dr. Sires, the one word that comes to mind is selflessness. Nobody I have ever met or probably will ever meet will be like Gene. He NEVER thought of himself...he thought of children and animals first and then the teachers at SES. I felt it to be truly an honor to work for him for twelve years. My two sons went through SES and still cherish the wonderful memories of that special place. When you entered the school, love just oozed from the walls. You wanted to be around him and all that was going on.

Everyone has a funny "food" story about Gene. My first year teaching there I brought leftovers from the night before to eat for lunch. I had just microwaved them and was ready to eat when Dr. Sires walked by. He said,"Yum that looks good." He takes my plate and pulls his white plastic fork out of his pocket( he kept it in case of "emergencies") and starts eating my lunch. I was bewildered and he said,"You can go eat on the hot bar!" That was Gene!

I know he is in heaven taking care of all the animals and children and enjoying the best buffet ever! I love you, Dr. S!

My condolences to the Sires Family. I was deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Sires' death. I am glad that my children had the pleasure of knowing how great this man was as principal at SES. He made each child at that school feel special. Our prayers are with you during your time of bereavement.
Wendy, Alexis and Rodney Jr. - The Oldham Family

Im so sorry to hear of the lost of Dr. Sires he was a great principle to my son jaden! Even myself when i was young. He will greatly be missed by all!!

Mr. Sires was my guidance counselor at Saluda Elementary in the mid 70s. What a wonderful person! He was so kind, caring, and gentle. When you were with Mr. Sires, you felt safe, nurtured, and important as an individual - so important for elementary age students. I have thought of Mr. Sires often through the years. He is and always will be a hero figure for me. Lee Ann Forrest (Lexington, SC)

Gene was one of the best people I have met in my 57 years. He loved all God's creatures great and small. He will be missed by many, both 2 legged and 4. I am blessed to have known him.
Karen

Carolyn, Alison, Chris, Andrew and Jenna
I want you to know how honored I was to work for Gene. He lead us with love and it showed. We were all happy! Children loved him as much as we did and we gave him our all because we loved him. No one ever left unless they retired and we truly were family. I wouldn't trade my years with him at the helm for anything and I thank God that my own children shared his legacy as well as my grandchild.
I was patiently waiting for my call to meet him at Eva's for breakfast. Maybe he and Marcia are having breakfast as we speak or who knows maybe he is Johnny Appleseed with a pot stuck on his head and she is laughing. I believe that the children of heaven are already gathered around and of course God knew they needed him. I am however profoundly sad for those of us who lost him. I wanted him to revel in the joy of retirement and flourish with Noah as he grew. I pray that God helps all of us heal. I am so proud of his legacy!

We will never forget Dr Sires kindness in ensuring the safety of Desi and Jolene. Their mother always said you were a saint. Now we know you are.

Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Jim and Olga McCullough

We are so sad about Dr. Sires death. We was a student at the school when he was the principle. He was the nicest person in the world.Also he cared for students so much.Our prayers go to him and his family.

The Hardin family

Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this sad time.May God bless and comfort each of you. Marvin and Lois Hyatt

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Dear Carolyn, Andrew, Allison and Chris, Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you endure yet another trial. We are so sorry for your loss and we pray that you can remember that the grace of God will never lead you where the love of God cannot keep you. Tough stuff these terrible hours, please know you are well loved, and keep your precious memories near as they will eventually console you. Gene was an amazing human being and I feel sure he makes an even better angel.

The Koehler family, Keith, Zosia, Kate, Alex and Greg

We are so sorry for your loss. Such an Angel to all children. Dr. Sires was the reason I always felt comfortable while I was at work. I knew that he loved my children: Heaven, Joy, and Grace. They loved and respected him as well. I could always say, "I know Dr. Sires wouldn't like that, or Dr. Sires would be so proud of you. They would either straighten up or light up at the mention of his name. He was just as loving in 2009, as he was when I first entered the doors with my eldest child in 1994.

Gene & I carpooled as we started our careers as guidance counselors in Saluda - he at the elementary, I was at the middle school. He had a gift for making everyone, children, parents and faculty members feel special. I'm sure his joy of life endeared him to everyone he encountered. I am so sorry for your loss, and pray that God will comfort you.

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

I am very sorry to hear about Gene dying. I have not seen him since high school(I lived on Edisto Beach back then) but have always remembered him smiling all the time. My thoughts are with Jimmy and his family. Sherry.

Alison, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Know that you and your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Be strong and keep your head up high.

Sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you in this time of difficulty. He was a good man who always seemed to make time for his students. I worked for the district for a few years and he was always willing to do what it took to make sure the well being of not only his students but the staff as well.

The Aitkens-Bob,MaryAnn,Christi and Rebekah can only say how much we loved and respected Dr.Sires- Al-Si you know how we feel and are always available for whatever -God bless

Dr.Sires will be missed by,Jeannie17,Nina12 and Reuben Goode6 . I always loved getting the good citizen calls.. Thank you for all that you did,DeDe Goode

Thank you to Mr. Sires for his compassion towards reading, education and animals!

I was so sorry to hear of Dr. Sires's death. He had a fantastic sense of humor and a heart bigger than the moon. May your memories comfort you in the days ahead.

Dr Sires made such a remarkable difference in my childrens lives. He helped up through some really hard times. It always amazed me how he remembered every students name - no matter how long it had been since they were at SES. Dr. Sires will be greatly missed and I am so thankful we were lucky to have had him in our lives.
Michael, Mary Katherine and Tina Schumacher(Summerville, SC)

At times like this, words are always hard to come by, but just wanted to let you know our prayers are with you. Dr. Sires help to mold so many lives and I for one, Thank him for this. I had the pleasure of knowing Andrew through my daughter Amanda, as they were great friends throughout their school years. You raised a wonderful young man that would make anyone proud. Again my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.

To the Sires family,
My prayers and thoughts are with you. I am thankful to be just one of the many lives touched by Mr. Sires. He loved and was loved in return by children and parents. There was nothing that hindered him from being the caring, gentle and wonderful educator he was. He took my son and all children as if they were his own. He will be sadly missed but never forgotten.

The world is a better place because Gene was in it, even for a brief time. I remember Gene fondly as he and my children shared many childhood memories.

Betty, my thoughts and prayers are with you. A mother shouldn't bury her child.....I'm so sorry. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to ease your pain. My prayers are with Gene's entire family. Such a sad loss.

Carolyn, Andrew and Alison, It was with much sadness that I learned of Dr.Sires passing. He was a special person who had an important role in our lives.Marcia loved him dearly and treasured working for him at SES. Daniel recalls fondly his memories of SES and says those were the best schools years of his academic career.The reason they both felt this way is because of Gene's love and the fact that he cared for everyone deeply.I know when I would visit the school for HOST or any school function he was always there with a smile greeting everyone. I know that you are saddened by his sudden loss, but take comfort in the fact Marcia greeted him as he entered the kingdom of heaven and you now have an angel looking out for you always! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Love, Tom and Daniel O'Brien

Mrs Sires and family,
Please accept our families condolences on the loss of Dr Sires. He touched our family in so many wonderful ways. He was principal at Summerville elementary 30 years ago when my husband Wayne attended and he was lets say a "less than perfect" example of a child his age. But Wayne has absolutely nothing but fond memories of him. When our oldest daughter started Kindergarten, we met Dr Sires as we walked through the front doors for meet the teacher night. Not only did he greet us with a smile he shook my husbands hand and called him by name! It had been more than 10 years since he had laid eyes on Wayne yet he remembered his name. My husband once told both of our daughters who also attended SES that Dr Sires was strict and demanded respect and good behavior from every child but was the most fair man they would ever meet and they were lucky he was their school principal. Both of our daughters had the honor of attending SES from K-5. Our oldest Daughter,Michelle, fell and broke right hip just one week before the end of school her fifth grade year. The very next day flowers were delivered to her hospital room and the card was personally signed by Dr Sires. Michelle still has the card and a picture of those flowers. Our youngest daughter Julie followed her sister through SES three years later and her most memorable time there was being a part of Dr Sires petting zoo crew. She was so honored and loved every minute of it especially when it was her turn to go care for the animals over the weekend. I myself never had the honor of attending SES, but I shared in the joy and the memories passed on through my husband and my children and had the honor of meeting and interactingwith him at various school activities. Today my husband is serving in the United States Army and we are in Fort Riley Kansas. Michelle returned home to SC after high school graduation and is attending CSU and Julie will soon graduate high school. Dr Sires touched so many lives and really made a difference he was truly a blessing and one of a kind. In all of my volunteering at the shool in my childrens classes, I never once saw him encounter a child and not call them by name. I always found that to be truly amazing. But then, he was a truly amazing man who found his calling. God definitely placed him in the right place at the right time. Our family is better for having known him.
God bless you and your family and friends in this difficult time.
Sincerely
Connie Miller

So many happy memories I will hold close of our days growing up together on the "Islands". As an adult, Gene made a significant difference in the lives of my neices and nephew growing up in Summerville. My heart goes out to all who were priviledged to know him because they also loved him. I am so sorry for your loss. The world was a better place because of him.

Thank you Gene, I am just grateful for having known you. Our prayers Carolyn in this difficult time!

Saddened by the loss of Gene, but smiling and celebrating the life of a wonderful man. Gene influenced many people and I am blessed to be one of them. Carolyn, thoughts and prayer to you and your family at this difficult time. RIP Gene, you made a significant mark in my life.

George "Trip" Hussey

Praying for you all during your time of bereavement.

Dr. Sires made such an impact on my life during my time at SES! He instilled a love for reading within me at a very early age. What I admired about Dr. Sires the most is that he remembered me. Years after I had left SES, went on to graduate from high school and even on to college, he still remembered me. Where else can you find such a dedicated educator?? He was more than a principal--he was our friend and like a father to us. I consider myself privelaged to have known him.

A funny story....I was in third grade and it was pizza day in the cafeteria. I was about to put some dressing on my salad and instead, it squirted all over my pizza. I sat there in disbelief and was on the verge of tears because I had ruined my lunch--or so I thought! Dr. Sires saw my "dilemma" and came to my rescue. "Try eating it like that", he said. "I do, and trust me, it's very good". Well, I did and til this day, I credit him with getting me hooked on pizza and ranch dressing! :)

Dr. Sires we love you and may you rest in peace!

Joyelle Gordon ('90-'93)

Kiara Carroll
Eva Pierson
Stormy Nunn
Benjamin Nunn

Carolyn and family, you are in our prayers. There are no words that totally comfort but as time passes reading how your loved one touched the lives of other seems to ease the pain. Gene left quite a legacy and will be greatly missed. Janey Bowman

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
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