Charles Dennis Waldrop, Sr.

Dennis was a native of Franklin, NC and was predeceased by his parents, Wiley J. and Eleanor Curtis Waldrop; two sisters, Dorothy Waldroop and June Anthony and two brothers, Fred Parrish and Eddie Waldrop.

Dennis was a 1953 graduate and president of his senior class at West High School in Knoxville, TN. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity while attending the University of Tennessee. He was a Marketing major. After college, he enlisted in the Army serving at Fort Jackson, SC. He served two years active duty and in the SC National Guard for six years. He was aide to the Commanding General, 51st Division and a graduate of Palmetto Military Academy in Columbia, SC.

Dennis’ early years in his radio career were spent in advertising sales at WCOS AM/FM, WIS AM and TV. His final many years in radio were as owner/operator of WSCQ/Sunny 100 with his partners Bill Benton, Dave Wright and Gene McKay.

Dennis was also active in many civic associations, at various times serving as co-founder and president of Shandon Optimist Club, Richland Kiwanis Club, SC Associated Press Broadcasters Association, Richland County Heart Association and the Executives Association of Greater Columbia.

Dennis received both the Distinguished Salesman Award and Top Management Award from Columbia Sales and Marketing Executives Association. He was listed in Who’s Who in American Business and designated a life loyal Sigma Chi.

Dennis served on church councils at St. Stephen’s and St. Michael’s Lutheran Churches. At St. Michael’s, he organized and facilitated a men’s neighborhood weekly Bible study. He also led an adult Sunday school class. While at St. Michael’s he served as president of church council for several years.

Dennis was the beloved husband of Judy Waldrop and cherished father of Sherri (Randy) Murdock, Janice (Wyman) Shull and Charles "Chad" Dennis Waldrop, Jr. (Connie). He was stepfather to Jill Lee, Scott Lee and Rebekah (Tom) Gawinski, all of Columbia, SC. He was grandfather to 11 grandchildren, great grandfather to one precious great granddaughter and had four step grandsons. He was a loving uncle to several nieces and nephews, faithful friend to many in SC, TN and NC, and “Papa” to his beloved dog, Bentley.

Dennis had a great passion for life and people. He had an outgoing personality and generous spirit. He lived an incredible life of telling wonderful stories and bringing lots of laughter. He will be missed in the hearts of all who knew and dearly loved him.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 9, 2022 at St. Michael Lutheran Church with interment to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church social hall.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org.) or Redeemer Lutheran Church Williamsburg County Ministry 525 St. Andrews Road COlumbia, SC 29210.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmanlexington.com for the Waldrop family.