A. Nicholas “Nick” Papadea

Mr. Papadea died peacefully Sunday, October 15, 2023. Born in Columbia, SC, he was a son of the late Nicholas Apostolos Papadea and Marina Capilos Papadea. Nick graduated from Dreher High School and The Georgia Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Textiles. At Georgia Tech, he was a member of the NROTC, the National Society of Scabbard and Blade, and the Sigma Chi fraternity. After graduation, Nick was commissioned as an officer in the US Navy and was stationed in San Diego, CA with his new wife, Mary. He served as a supply officer on the USS Sumner County during the Vietnam War. After his service, he returned home and continued his education at the University of South Carolina earning a Master of Business Administration. His first job was with Robinson Humphrey in Columbia, and he continued to work as a stock broker until his death. Nick was a member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Columbia and St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Myrtle Beach.

Nick was a passionate volunteer, giving of his time to numerous organizations including the Red Cross and Brookgreen Gardens. He loved animals, especially golden retrievers. You could often find him walking in the neighborhood or playing on the beach with one of his beloved dogs.

“Big Nick,” as he was affectionately known, was a character with a big personality. Everyone who met him undoubtedly has a funny story to tell. He was quick with a smile and a loud greeting, and he was always eager to give a high five.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Mary Lynn Papadea of Columbia; son, Dr. Nicholas A. Papadea (Meredith); two grandchildren, Ella Marina Nicholas Papadea and Apostolos Nicholas Papadea, all of Murrells Inlet; sister, Dr. Christine Papadea of Murrells Inlet; brother, Jim Papadea of Columbia; nephew, Dr. N. Jim Papadea (Maggie) of Columbia; niece, Kate Papadea of Columbia; and sister in law, Claudia Swygert (JB) of West Columbia.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Devon Best at Lexington Medical Center for his excellent end of life care and counsel; and all of the caregivers at Southeastern Home Health for their love and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Emergency Dental Clinic at Helping Hands of Georgetown, 1813 Highmarket Street, Georgetown, SC 29440.

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