The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals granted two special exceptions Oct. 9 to the Friends of Bishopville Cemetery Incorporated to expand burial sites and approve a columbarium on a separate parcel at 10636 Cemetery Road.

Joseph E. Moore, representing the Friends of Bishopville Cemetery, told the board the cemetery originated as the Odd Fellows Cemetery in December 1898 and is a well-maintained, historic community asset. He presented photographs to the board showing the prayer garden and the existing columbarium and described a deeded transfer of parcels from the local United Methodist Church and others that expanded the cemetery holdings.

Moore and witnesses said the expansion would add nearly an acre of burial space conveyed by an adjacent property owner, and they argued the project conforms with the county comprehensive plan goals to protect cultural and historic assets and promote public health and community facilities. Neighbors who own adjoining property testified in support, saying the site is well-kept and used as a community walking area.

A motion to grant the two special exceptions was made and seconded; the board recorded the motion passed with no opposition in the hearing minutes. The board’s approval allows the Friends of Bishopville Cemetery to proceed with the expansion and columbarium on the identified parcels, subject to any permit-level technical requirements.