News Summary
Gracie Waters, a respected leader in the Aiken real estate community, passed away at the age of 79. Known for her dedication to client service and community involvement, her legacy includes co-founding The Real Estate Shoppe, the largest all-women-owned agency in South Carolina. A funeral service will be held to honor her contributions and impact on countless lives.
Aiken, SC – Gracie Waters, a trailblazing figure in the real estate community, passed away on July 23, 2025, at the age of 79. Her contributions to the real estate industry and her influence on numerous lives have left an indelible mark on the community.
A funeral service for Waters is set to take place on August 2, 2025, at St. John’s Methodist Church, where friends, family, and colleagues are expected to gather to honor her legacy.
Career Highlights
Gracie Waters began her real estate career in 1976 after being inspired by her mentor, Cathy Skeen. Over the years, she established herself as a leading professional in the industry, eventually co-founding The Real Estate Shoppe in 1985 alongside partners Gail Gingrey, Ruth Alexander, Shirley Felak, and Sally Brodie. What started as a modest enterprise with just seven agents and two staff members grew to become the largest all-women-owned real estate agency in South Carolina.
The Real Estate Shoppe quickly developed a reputation for excellence, becoming renowned for its commitment to client service and community involvement. In 2002, after 17 years of successful operation, the agency merged with the Meybohm Real Estate Company, based in Augusta, Georgia. Waters continued to excel at Meybohm, where she was recognized as a top performer and contributed to building the brand’s presence in Aiken.
Industry Recognition
Throughout her career, Waters was praised for her professionalism, dedication, and the ability to foster relationships with clients and colleagues alike. Mike Polatty, the CEO of Meybohm, referred to her as a consummate real estate professional whose unwavering commitment made a significant impact on the company and the Aiken community. Her peers also acknowledged her skills, with John Chambers, Meybohm’s general sales manager, noting her crucial role in expanding the Meybohm brand in Aiken.
A Lasting Impact
Waters was more than just a successful realtor; she was deeply involved in community initiatives and focused on helping first-time home buyers navigate the complexities of purchasing their first properties. Her contributions have greatly benefited the local real estate market, and countless families have been able to find their dream homes thanks to her guidance and support.
Her colleagues remember her not just as a brilliant real estate mind, but also as a mentor and friend. Julie Whitesell, broker in charge at Meybohm’s Aiken office, characterized Waters as a legend who was deeply respected and loved within the industry and community.
Background Context
Gracie Waters’ career in real estate was marked by significant achievements and contributions that have spanned decades. Starting in a predominantly male-dominated field, she broke barriers and paved the way for other women in real estate, demonstrating that success is attainable through dedication and hard work. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of real estate professionals in Aiken, and her influence is likely to endure as the community reflects on her life’s work.
Shellhouse Funeral Home is responsible for handling the arrangements for her upcoming funeral and services, where many will gather to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a remarkable individual who has made such a meaningful impact on the lives of many.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Gracie Waters
- Wikipedia: Real Estate
- Aiken Standard: Gracie Waters
- Google Search: Gracie Waters Real Estate
- Post and Courier: Aiken 150 Gracie Waters
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Real Estate
- Shellhouse Rivers Funeral Home: Obituary
- Google News: Gracie Waters Aiken
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken 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 Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. 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.
