Aiken, S.C., September 22, 2025
News Summary
The Aiken community is grieving the death of 78-year-old Jimmy D. Varos, owner of Variety Restaurant. Found dead during a well-being check, foul play is not suspected. The restaurant will be closed until further notice, leaving a gap in the local dining landscape. The Aiken Department of Public Safety and the Coroner’s Office are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death amidst tributes highlighting Varos’s legacy.
Aiken
Authorities confirmed the death of 78-year-old Jimmy D. Varos, the owner of Variety Restaurant in Aiken, S.C. The Aiken County Coroner’s Office was called to the restaurant just before 4 p.m. on Friday after a family member requested a well-being check. This prompted the Aiken Department of Public Safety to investigate the situation.
Upon arrival, Varos was found dead in a section of the restaurant that had been converted into living quarters. During the investigation, authorities detected a strong odor of propane gas inside the restaurant, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death. An autopsy has been scheduled in Newberry to determine the cause and manner of death.
Both the Aiken Department of Public Safety and the Aiken County Coroner’s Office are actively conducting an investigation. At this time, authorities have stated that foul play is not suspected.
In response to Varos’s passing, the Variety Restaurant posted a tribute on its Facebook page, acknowledging him as a legend and expressing condolences to the community. The restaurant will remain closed until further notice following Varos’s death, leaving a noticeable impact on the local dining scene.
Background
Variety Restaurant, known for its homestyle cooking and welcoming atmosphere, has been a staple in Aiken for many years. Jimmy Varos was revered by locals and customers alike, contributing significantly to the community’s social fabric through his business. The restaurant’s closure not only signifies the loss of an establishment but also reflects the mourning of a beloved figure in the community.
The ongoing investigations by both the Aiken Department of Public Safety and Aiken County Coroner’s Office aim to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding Varos’s unexpected death. As the community grapples with this news, tributes and memories of Varos continue to surface, highlighting his profound influence and legacy within Aiken.
FAQ
Who was Jimmy Varos?
Jimmy D. Varos was a 78-year-old owner of Variety Restaurant in Aiken, S.C.
What circumstances led to Jimmy Varos’ death?
Authorities were called after a family member requested a well-being check, leading to the discovery of Varos dead in a section of the restaurant that had been converted into living quarters.
Is foul play suspected in Jimmy Varos’ death?
Authorities have stated that foul play is not suspected at this time.
What will happen to Variety Restaurant following Varos’ death?
The restaurant will remain closed until further notice following Varos’s passing.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beloved Aiken Restaurant Owner Found Dead
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Aiken Business Owner Found Dead
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- WLTX: Jimmy Varos’ Death
- Google Search: Jimmy Varos Variety Restaurant Death
- ABC News 4: Aiken Authorities Investigating Death
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- The State: Local Article on Varos’ Death
- Google News: Jimmy Varos Aiken Restaurant
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
