Jim Papadea, 79, served on Columbia City Council
April 3, 2025
Jim Papadea of Columbia and Garden City died March 27. He was 79.
He was born June 2, 1945, in Columbia, the son of Nicholas Apostolos Papadea and Marina Capilos Papadea.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina, where he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity.
Mr. Papadea enjoyed a career in commercial real estate at Eden’s Real Estate Company for 20 years. He served on Columbia City Council from 1986 to 2004.
Throughout his life he contributed to the community in very meaningful ways. He helped organize May Fest and the Greek Festival, and played a vital role in creating parks and playgrounds for the people of the community. He was also on the board of the Carolina Children’s Home.
He also loved the beach, splitting his time between Garden City and Columbia. He volunteered at Brookgreen Gardens as one of the “Handy Vols” who take on various projects.
Mr. Papadea was a pilot, boat captain and savvy business man who enjoyed deep sea fishing, scuba diving – especially in the Cayman Islands – travel, woodworking and family.
He was remembered as a man who listened when others talked, helped his community and enjoyed life.
He is survived by his children, Jim Papadea (Maggie) and Kate Papadea of Columbia; his grandchildren, Ash and Mada; his sister, Christine Papadea, of Murrells Inlet; his nephew, Nicholas Papadea (Meredith); and his great-niece and nephew, Ella Marina and Nicholas.
His brother, Nick, and his sister-in-law, Mary, died before him.
A funeral service was held Monday at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Chapel in Columbia, with a private burial in Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Dr., Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.
Send condolences at dunbarfunerals.com.
