'Old Lady' Haney coming home to spread Christmas cheer
By JOE L. HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com

During his time on Earth, Jesus used many sermons and parables to illustrate lessons. One of those parables was that of "The Good Samaritan," who despite not having any prior knowledge of a certain needy person went out of his way to help.

Though the parable is more than 2,000 years old, it still has a lot of meaning in today's society as a distinguished former resident of Gaffney is hoping to make a similar impact in the lives of Cherokee County children this holiday season.

"Old Lady" Haney, who for many years owned a pawn shop on 6th St. that gave much of its proceeds to help prisoners and others in need, will return to Gaffney on Dec. 23 to distribute toys, candy and a wealth of Christmas cheer.

"Gaffney is home, and the goal is to bring Christmas to the people of Gaffney," Haney said. "Everyone is not always fortunate to have what they want at this time of year. That is why we are giving of ourselves, thinking of others."

Haney, 71, who now lives in Spartanburg with her husband, David, earned statewide acclaim for her humanitarian efforts in communities across the area - winning the prestigious Jefferson Award in 1984 and being honored with The Palmetto Award two years ago.

But in recent years her health has declined and slowed her down a bit. She said fearing that this could be her last Christmas, she and her 42-year-old nephew Frank Driver came up with the idea of setting up where everything began for her in 1979 - her old pawn shop formerly known as "This Side of the Road."

"The whole intention of that store was to uplift the spirits of people who walked in," Haney said. "I haven't been in Gaffney in a few years, but (Driver) came to me and said he wanted to do something and all I could do was think of the old store."

Driver recently moved from Baltimore after falling in love with the Palmetto State during a visit to one of his aunt's homes. During his visit, he earned money by helping farmers with their various daily tasks.

Instead of buying things for himself, Haney said Driver bought more than $500 worth of gifts to give to children.

"He did not know what we were doing, but all he knew was he wanted to make someone's Christmas bright," Haney said.

Driver will don a Santa outfit and bring gifts and many of the season's favorite tunes.

Part of his inspiration comes from his past, being the son of a former drug addict, he said. But after giving his life to Christ, Haney believes Driver's life is complete - causing him to want to give rather than receive.

"He did not have much, but still would rather give to others," Haney said. "He is a blessing, and I don't know where I would be without him."

Haney and Driver will be at the old pawn shop on Dec. 23 from 1-8 p.m. handing out gifts to children up to eight years old. For more information, call Haney at (919) 753- 4199.