Luther Lexon Bourne, Jr., lovingly known as "Shorty" to his many friends and "Junior" to his family, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the age of 81, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on April 15, 1944, in Raines, South Carolina, Luther was the son of the late Luther Lexon Bourne, Sr. and the late Clara Caroline Lawrimore.

From a young age, Luther learned the value of hard work, helping his father on the farm, driving a school bus, and enjoying drag racing in his spare time. He attended Area Trade School in Columbia, South Carolina, and worked at Butts' Esso before entering an apprenticeship at the Charleston Naval Shipyard. He later retired from the Naval Supply Center in 1993. A self-taught electronics expert, Luther went on to operate Shorty's Shop, where he provided general maintenance services for Taco Bell and performed electronic repairs for many years. He often said with confidence, "If man made it, I can fix it!"

Luther spent many years living in Berkeley County in a home he built himself, a place filled with family, projects, and memories. In more recent years, he moved to Lamar, South Carolina, to be closer to his children and grandchildren.

Luther loved a good road trip—especially if it led to a great deal. Music was a large part of his life, and he could often be found playing the guitar, dobro, or banjo, especially blue grass and gospel music.  He was endlessly curious, particularly fascinated by electric cars and solar energy, and always had innovative projects in the works. Above all, his grandchildren were the light of his life. Known for his warm heart, Luther never met a stranger—or a woman he didn't hug—and he was always ready to lend a helping hand. His generosity and kindness led to many "adopted" children over the years.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Jeanette; his son, Jeremy Bourne (Heather); his daughter, Renee' Rogers (Brian); his three cherished grandchildren, Scott, Alexia, and Zoey; his brother, Lester Bourne (Barbara Ann); and his sisters, Gussie Avant, Hallie Williams, Nadine Wise, and Doris Dimmery.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Layton-Anderson Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share your favorite memories by emailing them to ShortysShenanigans44@gmail.com.

Friends and family are invited to sign the guestbook at www.laytonandersonfh.com