Henry “Toby” Tarte, of Elgin, South Carolina, originally from Darlington, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, coach, mentor, and friend whose greatest joy was helping others succeed.

Born in Darlington to the late H.B. Tarte Jr. and Norma Tarte, Toby grew up with a strong sense of family, service, and community. He carried those values throughout his life, including his six years of service in the United States Army, where he proudly served as a medic.

Toby’s life was defined by dedication to others. He was the proud owner of West Wateree Taekwondo Center and Nexus Card Shop, which he founded in 1991. A 6th Dan Master in Taekwondo, Toby devoted more than three decades to teaching and coaching students of all ages. He believed Taekwondo was more than a sport—it was a path to confidence, discipline, and character.

Beyond his own school, Toby worked to grow Taekwondo both in South Carolina and across the nation. He was committed to building the sport from the grassroots up, creating opportunities for athletes at every stage—from their very first competition all the way to international events. His leadership and vision gave countless students the chance to follow their dreams, and his impact on the Taekwondo community will be felt for generations.

Before pursuing his passion for teaching full-time, Toby enjoyed a long career with Norfolk Southern Railway, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues.

Sports were always close to his heart. For more than 20 years, he coached baseball, basketball, and football with the Kershaw County Recreation Department and volunteered at Lugoff-Elgin High School. To the young people he mentored, Toby was more than a coach—he was a steady guide, encourager, and lifelong supporter.

When he wasn’t coaching or teaching, Toby could be found cheering on his favorite teams: the Washington Redskins, Boston Celtics, New York Yankees, and the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Toby is survived by his loving wife, Tammy Tarte; his children, Shawn Tarte (Brenda) of Camden, Erik Tarte (Tabatha) of Camden, Isabel Tarte of Camden, Britney King (Tony) of Lugoff, and Amber Barfield (James) of Cassatt; and his beloved grandchildren, Joshua Tarte, Abigail Tarte, Hank Tarte, Grayson Mueller, Donnie King, Eryn Gardner, Hope Gardner, Axel Davidson, and Nolah Hunnicutt. He was predeceased by cousin, Michael Tarte; and a son, Donald Matheson 

He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to others. His life’s work was building people up—whether through sports, martial arts, coaching, or simply being present as a friend and mentor. The legacy Toby leaves behind is one of love, service, and community.

A celebration of life service for Toby will be held Saturday at 3:00 p.m. at Powers Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.