Jimmy Georgios Varos

AIKEN, SC -“Jimmy The Greek” Varos, 78, of Aiken, SC entered eternal rest in the presence of God on Friday, September 19, 2025 in Aiken, SC.

Jimmy was born on January 19 , 1947 to the late George and Pelagia Varos in Plomari, Greece. He grew up with a deep love for the ocean and nature. From a young age he was adventurous and brave, and carried these characteristics with him throughout his life. A true business man and entreprenuer, Jimmy began his business experience as a child working for his father at his market in Plomari, Greece. As a young man, he joined the Greek Navy as a frogman and later on was a part of the Merchant Marines.

In 1971, Jimmy moved to the United States and began working at a fish market in Aiken, SC. Having travelled the world, he spoke five languages and true to his traveling nature, his favorite song was “On The Road Again”. He loved fishing and just going for a drive when he had the time. Jimmy’s work ethic was unmatched, and he built a life for himself and his family by being a successful businessman. He bought The Variety Restaurant in Aiken, SC in 1984 and it quickly turned into a local favorite. The Variety Restaurant in Edisto Beach, SC and The Sandcastle restaurant in Folly Beach, SC, were two other successful restaurants that Jimmy owned in his life.

Jimmy was a mentor to many, and his restaurant was a starting point for many careers. “You hungry, I fix you food” was a common phrase you’d hear upon stepping into his restaurant. Jimmy never knew a stranger. He was friendly and welcoming to everyone, no matter their circumstance. He deeply valued his customers and his “regulars” were an extended part of his family.

Described as strong willed, hard working, kind, and intelligent, Jimmy taught his children and family these same characteristics he knew his entire life. He was proud of his children and taught them to never give up. Jimmy was worthy of the admiration he received in his communities, and will be deeply missed. The one and only “Jimmy The Greek”’s memory and legacy will live on through his family, friends, and community.

A visitation honoring his life will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 5pm - 7pm at Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home, 715 East Pine Log Road, Aiken, SC 29803.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at Southlawn Cemetery, 4524 Whiskey Road, Aiken, SC 29803. The family will host a drop-in at The Variety Restaurant following the burial.

Jimmy Varos is preceded in death by his parents, George Varos and Pelagia Varos; and his infant son, Michael Gammon.

He is survived by his sister: Persefoni Arapoglou (Michael); Children: Raymond Varos (Kristen), Elaine Varos (Chris), Jessica Varos, Gabriel Gammon; Grandchildren: TaylorAnne Redd, Hampton Redd, Pelagia Stanford; Nephews and Nieces: George Arapoglou, Pelagia Arapoglou, Peter Arapoglou, Alexx Kitchings (Daniel), Niki Rautio (Christopher). Best friend; Patsy Mears

SHELLHOUSE-RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 715 E. PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC 29803.