Geoffrey L. Groat, 82, longtime DeBordieu real estate broker
July 17, 2025
Geoffrey Lewis Groat of DeBordieu died June 28 at Georgetown Memorial Hospital. He was 82.
He was born Dec. 26, 1942, the son of William Avery Groat and Mary Lewis Groat of Augusta, Ga. Geoff graduated from Aiken Preparatory School and Clemson University.
A passionate educator and devoted community leader, he served as headmaster of Joseph Kershaw Academy in Camden from 1971 to 1973. He later opened and operated a retail and jewelry store in Columbia before beginning a career in real estate.
He worked with Coldwell Banker Boykin Realty in Camden and later joined DeBordieu Colony Real Estate, where he worked under Edens and Avant and later Peace Sotheby’s International Realty for a total of 39 years. His dedication, warmth and honesty left a lasting mark on the coastal real estate community.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Groat spent time working for the Library of Congress, a chapter that reflected his lifelong love of books, learning, educating and public service.
Mr. Groat was a master of hounds, an avid fly fisherman, a world traveler and a wine enthusiast. He found joy in cooking for friends and family. He organized the annual DeBordieu Beach Sweep and was an active member of the DCCA. He also played an active role in the Pawleys Island wine and food festival.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Shary G. Groat; his children, Geoffrey L. Groat Jr. (Sharon) of Charleston and Whitney Drum (Ted) of Greenville; his grandchildren, Eliza Groat and Suzanne Groat; his siblings, Johnny Groat (Elizabeth) and Katie Groat; and many nieces and nephews.
Two other brothers, Andy Groat and Steve Groat, died before him, as did his sister-in-law, Jeanne Groat.
A memorial service was held July 8 at Holy Cross Faith Memorial Episcopal Church.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org or the S.C. Coastal Conservation Association at ccasouthcarolina.com.
