Winston McElveen

Founder

Mr. Winston McElveen, 87, of Hartsville died the morning of September 28, 2017. 

Winston was born and raised in Hartsville, SC. He graduated from Hartsville High School where he was named Personality Plus. He developed a strong Christian faith as a child, attributing this to his mother’s powerful influence. After several years of odd jobs, dating, and service in the National Guard, he married Nancy Bartholomew and moved to Georgia where his son Mark was born and Winston obtained a degree in Religion from Piedmont College. He went on to receive a master’s degree at Wheaton College in Chicago and began a Ph.D. program at the University of Iowa, but God had other plans. Winston taught theology and religion at Toccoa Falls College, GA, where he was looked down upon by the administration for helping his students think for themselves and being a divorcee. The students felt otherwise, awarding Winston with Teacher of the Year. Winston was a preacher at several churches, spent time in Iowa, Richmond, VA, and Los Angeles. During those years his passion for community work was sparked and he met wonderful friends that he kept in touch with for much of his long life. He finally made his way back to Hartsville in 1972. Although he thought it would be a short stay, he became editor of the Darlington County Tribune where he tackled everything from controversial political issues to human interests. He married Georgianna Privette, who hoped he would take her back to CA, but they settled in Hartsville and had their daughter, Jana. Winston and two other community members had the vision to establish a facility for alcohol and drug abuse support and they formed Rubicon in the early 70s. Winston wanted the center located in a house to give its clients a more comfortable environment and it has remained in the same old house since that time. Winston was the executive director of Rubicon from 1976 until 2016. He was known throughout the state and in the field of alcohol and drug abuse for his leadership, integrity, and faithful mission.

His hobby included genealogical research and he produced several books on the McElveen family that have helped dozens of people across the US understand their family tree. His detective work led to finding and refurbishing an old McElveen family cemetery in Lynchburg, SC where he will be laid to rest. Extended family deemed Winston “the glue” for keeping everyone connected. He was known for his warm smile, sweet spirit, and giving soul, constantly providing for those in need. He accomplished much in his 87 years through his leadership and labors, his unwavering faith in God and his steadfast belief in kindness to others. A true dreamer, he was a lover of books, music, and convertibles. His real joy in life was his children for whom he always made time and made it surprisingly easy for them to discuss matters of the heart. He adored his children’s friends and they adored him back. Sometimes a little rebellious of social convention and despite mistakes along the way, Winston always sought the truth and God’s direction.