James "Jeep" Earl Padgett III

COLUMBIA - James Earl “Jeep” Padgett, III, died October 10, 2018 in Columbia, SC. Born on October 30, 1956 in Charleston, SC, Jeep was the eldest son of Dr. James Earl Padgett, Jr. and Nancy “Roxana” Hunter Padgett who predeceased him in 2016.

Jeep is survived by an uncle and aunt, Dr. Robert Eaton Hunter (Mary) of Seattle Washington; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert Hunter Padgett (Holly); nieces, Hannah Belle Padgett and Abigail Hunter Padgett of Florida; and a sister, Roxane Langford Padgett of Georgia.

He is also survived by beloved cousins, Kaye Freeman Davis and Claude Davis of Ridgeland SC, Celie Davis Cable, Bill and Lewie Davis; Erica, Andrew (Marilyn) and Colin (Lyn) Hunter, and Mike (Carolyn), Robin (Karen) and Andrew (Leila) Eaton. In addition, he is survived by an abiding stepson, Russell Richbourg (Kayla) and stepdaughter, Jessica Richbourg Boozer, and several step grandchildren.

His friends are too numerous to count, but they were his lifeblood.

Jeep graduated from Irmo High School and The University of South Carolina. At Irmo High School he ran track, with shoulder length hair rebelliously blowing in the wind, and was happy to tell you of the great SC athletes he competed against and won.

For all those who knew Jeep, a defining point of his life was his heart health. He was a proud recipient of care through The National Institutes of Health, and involved in a long-term clinical trial related to congenital heart defects. He beat all expectations.

A visitation to share joyful remembrance with the family will be held at Dunbar Funeral Home, 3926 Devine St, Columbia SC on Saturday, October 20, 2018 from 2:00 until 3:30 p.m. All friends are encouraged to attend and come your share best memories of Jeep.

There is no need for flowers. We believe Jeep would want you to hug each other in love. Peace, just peace.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.