Aiken, September 21, 2025
News Summary
Jimmy D. Varos, the 78-year-old owner of Variety Restaurant in Aiken, was found deceased inside his establishment during a welfare check. A strong odor of propane gas was detected, leading to an investigation by the Aiken County Coroner’s Office. Varos had owned the restaurant since 1983, and his sudden passing has left the community mourning, with the restaurant currently closed as a sign of respect. Autopsy results are pending, but authorities do not suspect foul play.
Aiken, South Carolina – Jimmy D. Varos, the 78-year-old owner of Variety Restaurant in Aiken, was found dead inside his restaurant at approximately 3:33 p.m. Officers from the Aiken Department of Public Safety conducted a welfare check at the request of a family member when Varos was discovered deceased in a portion of the restaurant that had been converted into living quarters. A strong odor of propane gas was reported inside the facility, prompting the Aiken County Coroner’s Office to be called to the scene at 3:57 p.m. to investigate.
An autopsy is scheduled for the following week in Newberry to determine the cause and manner of death. As of now, foul play is not suspected according to Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables.
Varos, who had owned Variety Restaurant since 1983, contributed significantly to its establishment as a community staple over the past four decades. The restaurant was well known for its large portions of steak, seafood, and Southern favorites, all served within a nostalgic decor that endeared it to many locals.
In light of Varos’s passing, Variety Restaurant issued a statement on Facebook, expressing heavy hearts and gratitude for the loyal customer base that supported the establishment over the years. The restaurant is currently closed until further notice as a mark of respect following Varos’s death.
The circumstances leading up to Varos’s discovery have raised questions among the community, although authorities have clarified that no foul play is suspected. As the investigation continues and the autopsy results are pending, residents of Aiken are mourning the loss of a beloved figure in their local dining scene.
Variety Restaurant’s long-standing history has made it a notable gathering place for families and friends, underscoring its significance in the local culture. The community remembers Varos not just as a restaurant owner, but as an integral part of Aiken’s social fabric.
Details of the Incident
- Date of Discovery: Approximately 3:33 p.m.
- Location: Inside Variety Restaurant, Aiken
- Coroner’s Investigation: Called to the scene at 3:57 p.m.
- Autopsy Scheduled: Following week in Newberry
- Foul Play Status: Not suspected
- Years of Ownership: Since 1983
Community Impact
Variety Restaurant has been a beloved local restaurant for decades, famous for its hearty meals and warm atmosphere. The local community is left to grieve the loss and reflect on the memories made in the restaurant, which has served as a social hub in Aiken for many families. Updates regarding the reopening of the restaurant and the investigation details will be communicated as more information becomes available.
FAQ
What happened to Jimmy D. Varos of Variety Restaurant?
Jimmy D. Varos, the 78-year-old owner of Variety Restaurant in Aiken, was found dead inside his restaurant at approximately 3:33 p.m. Officers from the Aiken Department of Public Safety conducted a welfare check at the request of a family member.
When was the Aiken County Coroner’s Office called to the scene?
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office was called to the scene at 3:57 p.m. to investigate.
Is foul play suspected in Varos’s death?
Foul play is not suspected at this time according to Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables.
How long had Jimmy Varos owned Variety Restaurant?
Varos was the owner of Variety Restaurant since 1983.
What is Variety Restaurant known for?
The restaurant was known for its large portions of steak, seafood, and Southern favorites.
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Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | 3:33 p.m. |
| Location | Variety Restaurant, Aiken |
| Coroner’s Call | 3:57 p.m. |
| Autopsy Planned | Next week in Newberry |
| Foul Play Status | Not suspected |
| Ownership Duration | Since 1983 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Death of Local Restaurant Owner Jimmy D. Varos
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Community Events Set for September in Aiken
Aiken, SC Welcomes New Latin Food Restaurant
Aiken’s Makin’ Festival Celebrates Community Creativity
Aiken’s Makin’ Festival to Showcase Local Crafts
Aiken’s Makin’ Celebrates Local Art and Culture
Additional Resources
- Post & Courier: Act Ugly
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- WRDW: Aiken Business Owner Found Dead
- Google Search: Variety Restaurant Aiken
- The Augusta Press: Restaurant Owner Found Dead
- Google Scholar: Aiken South Carolina news
- The State: Local News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken South Carolina
- WJBF: Human Remains Found
- Google News: Aiken South Carolina
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.
