Relatives remember Pee Dee Deputy killed when crashed

Florence County, SC (WMBF) – The Community of Florence County mourns one of her own.

Florence County's office announced that the 24-year-old deputy deputy Nathaniel “Nate” Ansay died on Tuesday after being involved in an accident along Highway 301 near Effingham.

After Ansay's death, his legacy lives through his loved ones, many of whom think about the tragic loss.

Some relatives said MBF News that they remember Ansay as someone who never met a stranger. While others capture memories of his many hobbies, like fishing.

However, everyone seemed to share the same feeling that he was someone who really embodied his job and did exactly what he loved.

“He couldn't have selected a better job. He absolutely loved it and poured everything he could,” said a close friend, Kayla Powell.

Many hearts were difficult on Wednesday when the community dealt with the unthinkable loss.

“Death is always difficult for everyone,” said Ronald and Stacey Jones, community members.

Ansay's loss is now characterized with a temporary monument near the Blackwells Farm Road, in which some people came by to give up flowers and show their respect. Other people come together with Ansay's death in different ways, with some appeared directly in the Sheriff's office of Florence County to offer both the employees of the deceased deputy and for his relatives.

The Jones family appeared in the Sheriff office to pray over the community.

“We will keep the family up and just ask that everyone else pray. They know that prayer changes things,” said Jones.

Some relatives spoke to WMBF messages, like Ansay's girlfriend, who said the 24-year-old was a great person with a big heart.

In the meantime, those who visited the State Criminal Justice Academy with him in 2024 simply stated that they just hold on and try to be strong for others because they remember forever as a friend, fisherman and deputy.

“He was really never in a bad mood or crazy, always made a joke, never hit a stranger. I just tried to be strong and to be there for everyone,” said Powell.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol examines the fatal crash.

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