Lucius Loyd Ardrey passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026 at his home. He was born on March 19, 1949, and adopted into the loving family of L.L.(Ick) and Sara Ardrey, very appropriately on the Saturday before Mother’s Day. Loyd always described that day as the luckiest day of his life. For the Ardreys, it was equally so.
Loyd attended Winthrop Training School (WTS), and graduated from Rock Hill High. After attending Spartanburg Junior College and serving in the National Guard, he returned home and began a career in the printing industry alongside his father at Record Printing. He later opened his own successful printing company, Regal Graphics, where he built a reputation for excellence and integrity. After many years in the printing business, Loyd sold the company, retiring only briefly before stepping into the role he was truly born for – owner of Ebenezer Grill.
With his courtly manners, renowned sartorial style, and penchant for remembering names, Loyd welcomed his many friends and loyal patrons to dine on the best hot dogs and barbecue in town. With his beloved companion and partner, Diane, by his side “The Grill” became a local institution where everybody knows your name.
Loyd was known for his compassion for the less fortunate and his quiet generosity. He faithfully supported Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, Haven Men’s Shelter, and many other causes, giving without fanfare and always with kindness.
A devoted and enthusiastic member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Loyd especially cherished his Sunday School family. Ever dapper and warmly welcoming, he made everyone feel at home.
Loyd is survived by his beloved companion, Diane Belk Simrill, and his sister Ann Ardrey Spencer. He was adored by nephews Rob Spencer (Ann) of Louisville, Ky, Chaplin Spencer (Karen), and niece Nolie Spencer Futch (Hank) all of Rock Hill, SC, grand nieces and nephews Saxby Spencer, Spencer Futch, Hannah Spencer, Sam Spencer, Will Spencer, and Henry Futch.
As Loyd would often say, “Always lucky!” In a beautiful reflection of that spirit, he was joyfully “adopted” once again – this time into Diane’s large and loving Belk family, where he was affectionately known as “Uncle Loyd” and “Uncle Ebenezer”. He was dearly loved by Diane’s son Gary Simrill (MaryRuth), and her grandchildren Mallory Simrill Stewart (Dylan), SarahKate Simrill, and Dozier Simrill.
He is further survived by his extraordinary Ebenezer Grill family: Taj, Chris, Robert, Barry, Amanda, Ella, Cynda, Tracey, Beth, Chad, and Jack.
The family is eternally grateful for Carol Myers and Josef Lowery of Superior Concierge Nurses, truly angels on earth, whose compassionate care was an immeasurable gift.
Deep gratitude is also extended to Patti Elam and Tom Givens for their devoted service and for the selfless generosity of their time, love, and care.
A celebration of the enchanted life of Loyd Ardrey will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Westminster Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, 1300 India Hook Road, Rock Hill, with a reception following in Westminster Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 India Hook Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732 or Hospice & Community Care, PO Box 993, Rock Hill, SC 29732.
Condolences can be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net