Denny Lee Camp, affectionately known as Denny or Papa, passed away on April 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by faith, compassion, and dedicated service to his community. Born on March 31, 1943, Denny devoted his life to pastoral ministry, counseling, and meaningful outreach.

Denny earned his Master of Arts in Religion, with a major in pastoral counseling, from Asbury Theological Seminary, equipping him with the skills and knowledge to serve others with empathy and insight. He furthered his commitment to spiritual care by completing two residencies in clinical pastoral education at NC Memorial Hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Throughout his career, he pastored churches across North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina, culminating in his retirement in 2009 from Valdese First Christian Church.

Known for his handy nature, faith-filled spirit, generosity, and deep compassion, Denny was a man who invested wholeheartedly in the well-being of those around him. Beyond his pastoral duties, he enjoyed dedicating time to repairing and renovating old houses for sale alongside his brother, Darvin, an endeavor he continued until his retirement. His community contributions were recognized with several honors, including the 1993 Award for Outstanding Community Service to Persons with Mental Illness and Their Families from the South Carolina Alliance for the Mentally Ill and being named Mental Health Professional of the Year in 1999 by the same organization. Additionally, he was a former member of the Rotary Club in Morganton, North Carolina.

Denny is survived by his beloved wife, Maxine H. Camp, and his son, William Bryant Camp, along with Johnna. He is also deeply remembered by his brother, Jacob Camp. His cherished grandchildren—Lauren Blackwell Corn (with Zac Ross Corn), Thomas Matthew Blackwell (with Gracie C. Blackwell), Noa Grace Camp (partner Jorge Gonzalez), Malachi Lee Camp (with Bonnie C. Camp), and Eleanor J. Camp (partner Laura-Ann Moore)—carry forward his spirit of kindness and faith. The legacy he leaves also extends to his great-grandchildren: Ross Corn, Ellis Corn, Elliott Blackwell, and Caroline Blackwell.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley Love Camp and Jacob Bryant Camp; his brothers, Darvin B. Camp and Earl Ray Camp; his sister, Brenda C. Heath; and his daughter, Devonne “Dee” Camp Blackwell.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on May 23, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the First Christian Church of Greenville, located at 704 Edwards Road, Greenville, South Carolina. This gathering will honor a life devoted to faith, community, and family.

Denny Lee Camp’s enduring commitment to his faith, community service, and family leaves a profound imprint on all who knew him. His memory will be treasured by those who had the privilege to know him, and his example of generosity and compassion will continue to inspire.