Buford "Butch" Trent

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Buford “Butch” Trent, age 93, on October 7, 2024. Born on August 11, 1931, in Pacolet Mills, South Carolina, Butch lived a life of dedication, service, and love.

A proud military veteran, Butch graduated from Wofford College and earned a master’s degree from Springfield College in Massachusetts. He dedicated over three decades to the Clemson University Student Union, creating a welcoming environment for countless students and staff. His commitment to the community and its students left an indelible mark.

Butch served the city of Clemson as a councilman and mayor pro tempore for more than 20 years, tirelessly advocating for the needs of his community and working to make Clemson a better place for all its residents. His faith in Jesus Christ was also a cornerstone of his life; he served as a Sunday school teacher and became a life deacon at First Baptist Church of Clemson where he was a member for over 60 years. His faith sustained him as he cared for his wife through her illness while leading his family by example, embodying his belief in service to others.

An avid golfer, Butch found joy in the game and cherished simple pleasures, particularly M&Ms and Oreos. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and most recently, a great-grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Hazel Trent. Butch leaves behind his daughter, Renée Sardiñas (Louie), and son, Jimmy Trent (Missy), along with granddaughters Caroline Smith (Morgan), Abby Harmon (Dillon), and Bailey Trent, as well as his cherished great-granddaughter, Sloane Smith.

He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, warm spirit, big hugs, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 11, 2024 at from 1:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. in the Family Life Center of First Baptist Church Clemson. A celebration of his life will follow in the church sanctuary at 2:00 p.m.

A private graveside service will be held at Woodland Cemetery at a later time.

One of his greatest passions was working with students at YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to aid in the restoration efforts after Hurricane Helene’s devastating path at www.blueridgeassembly.org/donate. 

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home & Cremations, Central-Clemson Commons.