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James Leventis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Leventis
Claudette Pirrello
February 2, 2022
Jim gave me the chance to work at his law firm when others thought I might not be able to do the job. His belief in me gave me the courage to break out of my fears and be the very best I could be for him and his firm. I loved him as a father, and his entire family welcomed me as if I were a family member. I was blessed to have been able to care for his pigeons at times he was unable too. That was a joy, as I loved them as he did. I did not know Jim had passed until a couple years ago. Last night, he visited me in my dreams, a gift I will always remember, as I will always remember him with heartfelt love. I cherish that time in my life. Great love to Laura and family. Jim was one in a million.
Nadia Eileen Mostafa
November 29, 2015
Jim and Laura have been my friend for over 35 years. They were the first to befriend us when we arrived in Columbia. Jim introduced us to his family and I have had the great honor of knowing all of them. My sincerest condolences to all of you, especially to my special friend Laura and their sweet family.
Great men of character come along once in a while.Jim was one of those great men.,husband, father, and friend. He raised an exceptional family and passed on the values of his father and mother. Jim worked tirelessly for his community but his family was his treasure! He never lost sight of what was really important.In his role as fundraiser for numerous causes he never failed to include us and never forgot to include a personal note. Always making one feel special!
Forever a gentleman, personable and engaging he will be forever missed.
I will remember him for all those accomplishments and more. However The special Jim I will always remember is Jim smoking his cigar, mowing his lawn and listening to 'Live from the Met.' Opera on Saturday afternoon. Now Jim you can listen to the chorus of the angels singing!
May you rest in peace friend. Don't worry we will be here for your beloved Laura.
Mildred Todd
November 29, 2015
Jim reminded me of my father. It did not matter where we ate, he knew everyone and he greeted every person who came near our table with a joke or a story. It was hard to keep a serious face around him. I loved being a part of this family because I enjoyed listening to him praise his children. He was not ashamed to speak love and to show love. I know he already introduced himself to my Dad!
November 24, 2015
Laura, Belatedly, I offer my sincere condolences to you and the entire family. Jim was a mentor to so many, not only for his legal skills, but as a model human being who was committed to serving his community. I was privileged to practice law with him and have that first-hand experience as a colleague and friend. I, like so many, will miss his presence, advice and expertise from now on. Sam Waters
November 21, 2015
Georgianna,
I was sorry not to get to speak with you at the funeral. Jim was on the very edges of my life all these years since you and I were suite-mates and he was the big brother and my campus hero. I will tell you that I always felt better when I knew he was involved in any community activity or issue. He was a force for good. The funeral service was a beautiful tribute a fine man.
I hope you and I will cross paths again at a happier time.
Love, Lill Mood
Al Smarr
November 20, 2015
Jim was an inspiration and set a high
standard for us as younger undergrads
and members of the same fraternity...
his life is a testament to that
Chuck Davis
November 19, 2015
Trula,
Sorry to hear about your brother, Jim. I was real fond of him. It was always a pleasure seeing him.
God Bless!
Libby Tompkins
November 19, 2015
Dear Laura,
I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Libby Tompkins
Wanda Hudson
November 18, 2015
Laura, I was devastated to hear of Jimmy's passing. But I rejoice knowing that he is where there is no more pain & suffering. I always enjoyed his visits & especially when you came into his life. It was fun visiting back & forth! (And Jimmy always cleaned the top of my refrigerator!). His accomplishments were many. Few could serve his fellow man as greatly as he did. His largest accomplishments were you, the children & grandchildren. He was foremost a godly, family devoted man. Jimmy made a huge impact on my life! I shall never forget him. My love and prayers are with all of you.
Andy Faris III
November 16, 2015
We just heard the news of your Precious Father. Please accept our deepest condolences. We will pray and continue to pray for You and Your entire family...Andy & Denise Faris
Joanna Hooker
November 16, 2015
Ms. Laura, our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family. It was such an honor to work with Jim. He was a wonderful man and he will be truly missed.
November 16, 2015
I don't know if I've ever known anyone more impressive than Jim Leventis. I had the privilege of his friendship for many years. He had it all and he gave it to everyone. A truly rare man. His kind will never be forgotten. Preston Whaley
Alex Sanders
November 16, 2015
Dreher HS c. 1956: We called him Chief because he was the best among us. That never changed
November 16, 2015
I came to know Jim becuse I was a Circuit Court Reporter for a long time. He was a wonderful person and I will remember him fondly. My prayers are with all of the family.
Nyna Dalbec
November 15, 2015
Holding you all in my heart during this difficult time. Love~
Russell Shealy
November 15, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Damien Sobieraj
November 13, 2015
My condolences to the Leventis family. Jim was one of the attorneys at Rogers, Townsend & Thomas who always encouraged me with kind words, a smile, and, often, a good joke. It was an honor to have worked with him.
Palmetto Boys State Family
November 13, 2015
Laura, our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Jim was a great man and will be truly missed.
Barbara Watson Deery
November 13, 2015
Dearest Leventis Family: My sadness for your (our) loss is overwhelming and ineffable. We grew up together (we were on Pinemont, you were our backdoor neighbors on Claremont), and I remember with such fondness that we played together after school, cried together, laughed together, mourned together, dined together, climbed the catalpa tree together, dug for treasures on the bank, road our bikes, and generally shared life. You even taught Dot and me to say some Greek words of greeting and pleasantness so we could fit in! To part with another one of you (us) breaks my heart and reminds me of my own mortality. Jimmy was one of the nicest, best men I have ever known in my 79 years and never failed to greet members of my family with a smile even under the most grave situations. How lucky this community has been to have had his leadership! My heart weeps for your (our) loss and I send wishes for better times. A bid kiss to each of you!
Jay Pitts
November 13, 2015
What a great man! Jimmy was such a man of influence and admiration. We shall miss him dearly. Thank you Brother Jimmy for all of the advice, influence and guidance you gave me over the years as a fellow Sigma Nu and member of the Boys State Family. What a mentor! You made life better for so many people! May we never forget the love you shared with all of us!
Ben and Sandy Nesbit
November 13, 2015
What a wonderful man Jim was. We have many memories of his caring and important work for others.
Cynthia Mills
November 12, 2015
Laura, the opportunity to visit with you and Jim at Life Care Center will remain special in mind and heart. I'm so glad we were able to share some time there. Just know that my husband and I will miss you and Jim.
May God continue to bless you and your family.
I send love and prayers
November 12, 2015
His dad taught Jim to be the best. From working part-time in college at the Post Office, to serving in the Air Force Reserve and being my lawyer, I truly admired this
gem of a human being. He was truly gold.
Andy Koin
Edith W.S. White
November 12, 2015
My deepest sympathy for your loss and My condolences to the family May God bless family in this time of sorrow.
Jean Selman
November 12, 2015
Laura I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Jim was one of the first people I met when I came to Columbia as a new bride. He was a man of many accomplishments and a friend to many. I send my heartfelt condolences
James Faller
November 12, 2015
A Tribute to Jimmy Leventis using symbolic and evocative lines of the poem Ithaca, by Constantine Cavafy.
When Jimmy started on his journey to Ithaca he must have prayed that the journey would be long, full of adventure, full of knowledge. In this long journey replete with sterling accomplishments and no few disappointments, Jimmy never met the monsters that Cavafy warns us to be weary of the Lestrygonians and the Cyclopes and the angry Poseidon because his thoughts remained lofty and fine emotions always touched his body and his spirit. He never met these evil Monsters on his journey because he did not carry them within his soul.
On his journey to Ithaca there were many summer mornings when, with what pleasure, what joy, he entered harbors he was seeing for the first time love, marriage, children, career and when he stopped at Phoenician trading stations to buy fine things and visited hosts of places where he could learn and be taught always on display his thirst for knowledge.
Jimmy always kept Ithaca fixed in his mind the welfare of his family, of his community, of this nation, the survival of the Greek traditions and culture. His voyage lasted many years. He anchored at the isle of Ithaca earlier this week when he was ripe in years, rich with all that he had gained on the way, never expecting Ithaca to make him rich in gold.
But Ithaca had not defrauded him. With the great wisdom he had gained, with so much experience which he put to use for the benefit of all who knew him and for the many who did not, he understood at the end of his life what Ithaca meant. Ithaca gave him the marvelous journey. Without her he would not have set out. (Now) She had nothing left to give him.
James (Demetrios) Faller
November 12, 2015
Robert & Beth Darr
November 12, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Bert Pooser
November 12, 2015
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Jim. Our hearts and prayers are with the family during this time.I will always have fond memories since our days at the University of South Carolina together.
Cheryl Shoun
November 12, 2015
Laura and family: I had the honor of practicing with Jim for a period of time. He was the quintessential gentleman and ever the diplomat. Jim made everyone around him a better person for knowing him. My deepest sympathy for your loss -- it is truly a loss for all.
Anne-Marie Leventis
November 12, 2015
Dear Laura and family, my family, I would like to offer you the prayers in my heart. Prayers for Jim, a wonderful man with a life full of gifts for everyone he touched, may he rest in peace. Prayers for Laura, that her strength and goodness will help her through these difficult times, and that all the sweet memories of their times together will be a comfort to her. Prayers for Jim's children, that they may feel, rely on, and share the energy of that family bond which came through their parents from their grandparents, a uniquely special and personal family love. Prayers for Jim's siblings and their families, all of whom have shared their love and lives with him from the time they were children, roots that stretched from the beginning and matured and deepened with time, and have an understanding no one else can match. Prayers for all extended family and any and all who knew this exemplary and accomplished man.
May his memory be eternal.
Robert Britts
November 12, 2015
I never met Jim Leventis in person but know he was a good family man and public servant. His sister-in-law, Jean Cox, was my neighbor in Norfolk VA in 1962. My condolences to the family. I hope to meet jean Cox and her son Chris Cox soon.
Bob Britts. Lexington SC
Kerry Waldrop
November 12, 2015
Meagan, Todd and family. So sorry for your loss. Kerry and Carrol Waldrop
Mrs Barbara Berry Peterson
November 12, 2015
To all the greater Leventis family and to the wife and children of Jim Leventis I extend my sincere condolences for your loss of brother, friend, husband, uncle and father. I knew him in his college years and his early career in New York banking at a time he also gained his MBA at New York University . His life and works are exemplary and show his deep integrity and sincere humanity for all his accomplishments and contribution to the family and community about him . He was always a first class guy , intelligent and genuine at everything he was involved in He will be missed greatly by all who shared part of his life. May joy come early to his family as they reflect over the gift they have had in him .
Sherri Tyson
November 12, 2015
Mr Leventis was a wonderful man. I was blessed to be a temporary caregiver for him. When you come into someone's house and the atmosphere is such that you feel at home, you know the head of the house is special. I celebrate knowing him and wish I had met him earlier.
Crist Goodwin Floyd
November 12, 2015
Thinking of you all.
November 11, 2015
An attorney, a banker .. accomplishments galore
Honors and accolades .. great things to be sure
But when all is said and done .. finally in the end
The best thing of all ..Jim Leventis was a friend
Michael G. Geronimakis
George & Bessie Vastis
November 11, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with Laura and her family and all the rest of the Leventis famillies. We will miss him and so will everyone that knew him. He left a beautiful legacy for his family and all of South Carolina. We enjoyed talking to Jim the last few years about Adelphotis Arahoviton "KARYAE"., in Gastonia, N.C. The Society that his father Chris Leventis was one of the Founders. Her was able to attend the 90th Anniversary of this Society with Laura and his sisters, Trula and Georgiana with their husbands. Jim meant so much to all of us.May his memory be Eternal George and Bessie Vastis
Teddy Kohn
November 11, 2015
My condolences to the entire Leventis family. I knew Jimmy first in high school at Dreher where he was President of the Student Body. Next, at USC where Jimmy and I were fraternity brothers of Sigma Nu. Naturally, Jimmy was elected Commander (Pres) of Sigma Nut as well as the entire student body. Jimmy had that command authority naturally it seems as he was President of just about every endeavor he undertook. My special condolences to Georgianna and Trula whom I also knew. Back then Jimmy was probably the most admired and looked up to young man in Columbia. God bless to all.
Teddy Kohn
Georgetown, SC
Catherine Zimmerman
November 11, 2015
Although our paths crossed briefly, Jim will be sorely missed by me. From the first moment we met, I knew I was working with someone really special.
For me, everything Jim shared was so poignant. He was truly "still waters running deep" in all his words and deeds. His stories were fascinating and filled with quiet lessons for all.
To the very end, he remained kind, humble and an example of how to live this life fully and how to leave it gracefully.
It was a pleasure to work with Jim and an honor to know him. I feel so blessed to call him my friend.
I pray that his family will find comfort and peace quickly so they may soon feel only joy and happiness when thinking of him.
With much love,
Yolanda Salitrero
November 11, 2015
A good man who cared for the wellbeing of all, specially children. It was an honor to work with him.
Spiros & Tula (Demas) Pappas
November 11, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Leventis family.
What a great loss.
May his memory be eternal.
Roy Barnette
November 11, 2015
Columbia and South Carolina has lost a wonderful "friend to all" and leader. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. I knew him through the Boy Scouts and the Columbia business environment. Truly a great man.
Michael Psillos
November 11, 2015
May his memory be eternal! May he now rest in a place where there is no pain, sorrow or suffering.
Rev. Rich McLawhorn
November 11, 2015
Before I entered the ministry, I had many opportunities to get to know Jim in my legal and governmental work. Jim was always a gentleman, and a man I respected immensely. The world is a better place because of Jim Leventis. I pray for all of his family during this difficult time.
Christine Pfister
November 11, 2015
My prayers for your family in your loss. Jim was a wonderful man. Even though it's been many years since seeing him, I remember him fondly. He was a dear friend of my brother, George Leventis (from Charlotte).
Blessings,
Christine Leventis Pfister
Ivan Gottlieb
November 11, 2015
Jim's father...and later Jim, were beyond just being great men...and Columbia is so much better off because of them. "The acorn doesn't usually fall far from the tree"....and Jim, too, grew into a mighty oak.
Kathryn Bostrom
November 11, 2015
I worked with Mr. Leventis year ago while I was in college and always enjoyed him. He was so nice and seemed to genuinely care about everyone he came across. I've always wondered over the years about him. Prayers to his family and may he rest peacefully.
Christine Papadea
November 11, 2015
Dear Laura and all Jim's family, Jim was a dear friend to me and my family for as long as I can remember. Our parents were great close friends and I felt that Jim was like a brother to me and my brothers. He was a wonderful man and his memory will remain in my thoughts always. May his memory be eternal. I regret can't come to the funeral because of a medical appointment that I have to keep. My thoughts will be with you.
Lovingly,
Christine
Despina Houlis
November 11, 2015
This man was the epitome of a Christian soul - a smile always on his sweet face, serving his community and his faith, and most of all a rock for his family. He was a son of immigrants who came to this country with nothing and fulfilled the American dream with hard work and faith. Moreover, he was a big brother always looking out for friends and family. He will truly be missed. May we all live long to remember him.
Peter Berry
November 11, 2015
Jimmy will always be one of those unusual people who was larger than life to me. Jimmy should just live forever. There can't NOT be Jimmy Leventis! He is one of the nicest and most thoughtful person I've ever known. Jimmy is just a GOOD GUY. Period.
Our prayers go out to all the Leventis family. We share the loss tremendously.
Pete and Harriett Berry (Union, SC)
Darra Cothran
November 11, 2015
Jim was a lovely man and a true gentleman. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family.
Edith Woolbright
November 11, 2015
Laura and Family, I shall remember Jim always as someone who truly cared about people. He was great to work with. He was so proud of his family, as I know you were of him. Blessings to all of you.
November 11, 2015
Laura,
Jim was a true southern gentleman. As a friend and fellow Rotarian, we will truly miss him. The respect he had had is astounding. Many prayers to your family.
With love,
Bob Diggle
Richard Cohn
November 11, 2015
I will miss by friend, cub scout buddy and his wonderful smile.
Matt Kennell
November 11, 2015
My deepest condolences to Jim's beloved wife Laura and the entire Leventis family. Jim was the kindest and most giving servant I have ever met and deeply influenced my life . His impact on Columbia will be felt for generations.
dennis paul jr
November 11, 2015
there are no words to express how we all felt about this incredible man. what a human being. i feel blessed to be his nephew. saying that he will be missed... what an understatement.
Melissa Apostolides
November 11, 2015
"Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace." (Ps. 37:37)
With care and sympathy for the Leventis family, and with deep affection and respect for this good man and all that he worked for, stood for, and accomplished -- all of you are in our prayers.
Love and all good wishes, Melissa
Mary L. Beach
November 11, 2015
My heart is heavy for the Leventis family's loss even while we rejoice in celebrating a life well lived. Jim was a kind person and a voice of reason for me during my Richland One tenure. My deepest sympathy to the family who will always be so dear to my heart even though 40 years have passed.
November 11, 2015
Laura and Family, we grieve with you at Jim's passing and also celebrate a life so well lived. Jim was a great friend to my Dad and our family. He was a role model and mentor to so many of us. His impact lives on in the many lives he touched. May God bless you and give you comfort.
Jim Reynolds
Sinclair Lewis
November 11, 2015
Laura & all: Jim was such a part of my life and I loved him and admired him as my brother for all these years. He was a faithful and caring friend. So many lives were influenced and made more meaningful because of his genuine interest and love. Betty joins me in sending love to you all. Sinclair Lewis
Danielle Gadow
November 11, 2015
It was Jim Leventis who brought me to Columbia, SC to serve as the Executive Director of the Columbia Downtown Business Association. He was always my friend and mentor, the one I turned to no matter the situation. He and his family are in my thoughts and prayers, Jim will be greatly missed!
November 11, 2015
I knew Jim through the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, where I worked as Director of Community Development, and he was a board member and volunteer. He was one of the finest men I have ever known, always treating everyone the same, no matter what their professional status or their station in life. And it was clear that he loved his family above everything else. I will always remember that, when he was presented the Chamber's Ambassador of the Year Award for community service, he asked his family to join him at the podium, and he said to the audience, "This is why I do it." RIP, Jim.
Gregory and Wendy Nicholas and Family
November 11, 2015
May God continue to bless the Leventis family as Mr. Leventis was truly a blessing for the city of Columbia as well as anyone who came into contact with him. While he will be sorely missed, his great legacy will continue through his family and all of the lives he touched. There is a great reward in heaven for people like Mr. Leventis.
Jim and Rosa Cherry
November 11, 2015
Laura and family-
We are so sorry for your loss; we held your Jim in highest esteem and were always happy to see him. He was always so friendly and upbeat. He was nice to everyone and was loved by all -- he will be missed--especially at our DHS Class of '56 reunion this coming April!
Carolyn Hudson
November 11, 2015
Though our paths have not crossed in many years, I still remember Jim for his warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm. His support of others and the community was remarkable. Sending love to all the family.
Holly Westcott
November 11, 2015
I have many memories of Jimmy and his family from our school days, but I will especially always value the way in which, in sixth grade at Brennon, he treated the girls as real people, not objects of scorn! He was a totally nice person then and remained that way throughout his life. I'm sure he'll be missed by many, including his Dreher classmates who always recognized his leadership and his inherent kindness.
Kathy Gaffos
November 11, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to the entire Leventis families...Jim was a beautiful example of a life well lived...as a loving family man, a dedicated community leader and devoted church member, he leaves a legacy that inspires us all. I will remember him, as I do his father, always with a smile. May his memory be eternal. My love and prayers for all his family...
Grace Rockafellow
November 11, 2015
Great memories of growing up with "Jimmy", grammar school
and our amazing home room at Dreher. All of the girls were in love with him from afar! Such a loss for his family and the community.
Perry & Mary Diamaduros
November 11, 2015
Thw city of Columbia and the state of South Carolina lost a very loving and caring individual today. May God rest his soul.
Kathy & Russ Froneberger
November 11, 2015
Laura and family,
Kathy joins me in sending our deepest condolences on Jim's passing. Jim and I shared a lot of stories, especially about our banking experience on Wall St.
Mike & Margie Malone & Family
November 10, 2015
Mr. Leventis was a great man who exhibited class and kindness in everything he did. His love for his family, his Church, his community, and his fellow man was always apparent. He was as humble as he was accomplished. His life was a life well lived. Mr. Leventis was an absolute gentleman who will be greatly missed. Heartfelt condolences to the Leventis Family. May his memory be eternal.
Bobby & Debbie Baird
November 10, 2015
My deepest condolences to my favorite Sunday school teacher who ranks among the finest men I have known. A loss for the community and mankind. May he rest in peace and the Lord shower peace and healing to his family.
Vern and Rhonda McKinney
November 10, 2015
Jim was a wonderful man. He made us feel like family from the first moment we met him 13 years ago in Blaine. A great man, a great loss, heaven's gain. We love you and praying God's peace upon your family.
Peter Pigeon
November 10, 2015
What a fantastic, impactful life Jim lived! He was such a great leader and role model for us all. May his memory be eternal!
Maria Melonas-Bates
November 10, 2015
Mr. Leventis was a wonderful person with a kind and gentle spirit. We will miss seeing his ever-happy face. May his memory be eternal.
C&C&E
November 10, 2015
We love you, Uncle Jim/Papou.
C&C&E
kathy unger
November 10, 2015
Dear friends, Dickie and I send love to you all during this difficult time.
Nik Apostolides
November 10, 2015
Uncle Jimmy always provided a thoughtful, caring, and principled example for his many nieces and nephews, of which I am proud to count myself among.
His wise counsel and generosity of spirit inspire us today and in the days to come.
His real legacy is in the people he served in countless community roles and projects that he participated actively in; and most of all in the lives of faith and character that he instilled in his children, grandchildren, and many others who he came into contact with over a long and constructive life and career.
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