Algernon Protheroe Guess III

COLUMBIA - Algernon “Algie” Protheroe Guess III passed away on October 8, 2024 in Columbia, SC. He is survived by his sister, Sallie J. Guess and many cousins. Algie was born on November 19, 1942, and grew up in Camden, South Carolina and Waynesboro, Virginia. In his early years, he was full of life with exceptional energy and intellect and he brought a sense of fun and vitality to all his friends and family. Algie was a renaissance man, with many skills and talents. He was an actor, an artist, a writer of short stories, and he restored antique cars and sail boats.

After graduating from Davidson College, he earned a JD and MBA at Columbia University. He then worked as a corporate attorney for IBM. He took a leave of absence from IBM to enlist in the U.S. Army. He attended flight school and became a pilot in Vietnam where he bravely flew behind enemy lines, directing U.S. Army artillery to vital enemy targets. He also served as a JAG officer and represented soldiers in disciplinary matters.

After his military service where he attained the rank of captain, he returned to IBM where he worked for a number of years. Algie’s later years were greatly affected by the trauma he experienced during his service in Vietnam. He served his country with honor and may he now find the peace he sought to protect.

No service is planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Algie’s memory to an organization that assists veterans such as the Wounded Warrior Project or Vietnam Veterans of America.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, assisted the family.