Ted McGee is not only remembered as a long-time successful businessman in West Columbia, but also as a community activist who promoted positive projects throughout the communities of Lexington County. 

McGee, who died Oct. 18 at age 84, was co-owner of McGee Realty at 560 Meeting St. in West Columbia, a real estate business he operated since the 1960s.

McGee started his real estate business in 1961. He built hundreds of home and developed many properties in Lexington County. 

His two sons, Ted O. McGee, Jr., and Carroll McGee, continued the business. Carroll and Ted expanded the company to include auctions and worked in North Carolina and South Carolina for many top banks. The third generation, Teddy McGee, Kevin McGee, Brent McGee, and Holli McGee, have added attorney services, land appraisals, personal property appraisals, and estate consulting to the company.

McGee was a familiar face at many community functions, including Greater Cayce West Columbia Chamber breakfasts. He also worked to help many in need and he mentored others who were embarking on new careers.

Greater Cayce West Columbia Chamber President/CEO and Cayce City Council Member Tim James said McGee’s real estate business, which he built with incredible talent, was an important asset to West Columbia.

“He not only did a lot for West Columbia, he did a lot for the Midlands and for the state of South Carolina,” James said.

He was not only known for his business savvy, but was frequently associated with charitable causes.

“Anytime he saw something was needed, he helped,” said West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles. “He was a very giving man.”

His brother, Carroll McGee, remembered his charitable, giving spirit, such as his founding of The Chris Myers Children’s Place, where needy children and their mothers were housed together during transitional times.

“He started it from scratch.” Carroll said.

He also founded the Christ Centeral Medical Care Center, which provides medical, dental and eye care services for the uninsured, along with two Rotary Clubs.

As for accolades, he was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor awarded by the governor of South Carolina.

“He received so many awards he didn’t have room on his walls to post them,” Carroll said.

 Throughout his life, those who know him said, he liked to make changes for the better.

 “I couldn’t have had a better brother,” Carroll offered.

His stepson, Scott Frazier, pastor at New Covenant Christian Church in Wilkesboro N.C., posted this notice: 

“One of the greatest men I've ever known, my stepfather Ted McGee, passed away yesterday morning. He was someone who praised his God, adored his family, served his country, bettered his community, brokered deals, financed dreams, and above all he LOVED helping people. He was his grandchildren's biggest fan, but he celebrated his wife, Carole McGee, the absolute most.”

A Celebration of Life is scheduled Oct. 28 at Mt. Horeb Church in Lexington (1205 Old Cherokee Rd.), with a 2 p.m. visitation to be followed by a 3 p.m. service.