September 22, 2025

Community Mourns the Loss of Variety Restaurant Owner

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.