Alec H. Chaplin

Born Alexander Harold Chaplin on July 27, 1939, in Neeses, SC, he was the son of Virginia Livingston Chaplin and Adam Harold Chaplin.

Alec attended Orangeburg County Schools and had especially fond memories of his high school football days. He graduated from Wofford College with a BA in Economics and then proudly served his country in the Army.

Growing up on the family farm, Alec was instilled with a strong work ethic. His hard work and determination fueled his real estate development career that included ventures, from power plants in New York to flea markets and shopping centers in the Southeast. Alec loved every aspect of putting a deal together and seeing it through. He often said, “You got to bow your neck and get it in the end zone.” He founded The Chaplin Company over 55 years ago and was proud to work alongside his son for the past 25.

“Big Alec,” as he was affectionately known, was a father figure to many. Always mindful of those who guided him through his life, Alec sought opportunities to help others. Driven by his big heart, he gave generously to his fellow man, churches, schools, and municipalities.

An avid outdoorsman, Alec loved being in the woods. His hunting and fishing buddies were among his closest friends. He loved his farm, his hunting dogs, and he was always in pursuit of another covey of quail.

He was a member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church where he served as a Deacon and Elder. He was a charter member of the Columbia East Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow.

Alec cherished his friends and family and always took the time to let them know how much he loved them. He is survived by his wife, Judy Austin Chaplin. His four children, Beth Chaplin, Claire C. Mahoney (Kevin) of Richmond, VT, Alec H. Chaplin, Jr. (Rachel), Virginia C. Maybank (Peter) of Charleston, and their mother, Mary Boyd Brown. His five grandchildren, Annika and Eliza Mahoney and May, Luke, and Alec Chaplin. His sister, Anna C. Stewart of Orangeburg and his brother-in-law, Leon C. Hall of Rock Hill. Additionally, he is survived by his devoted nephews and nieces, his God sons, and Judy’s children and grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Mary Ida C. Hall and his brother Wade L. Chaplin.

The family is grateful for his devoted friends and his wonderful caregivers.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 14 at 3:00 pm at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29204. The family will receive friends in Thompson Hall immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, he would have preferred donations to the Chaplin Endowment at Eastminster to assist at-risk children, youth, and young adults.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.