Paul Rochester III
1961 - 2026
Paul “Buddy” Rochester III, 64, of Columbia SC, passed away on March 23, 2026, leaving behind a full lifetime of love, laughter, and memories that will forever be cherished.
Buddy was known for his strength, kindness, and a special humor that made everyone smile. From a very young age he loved being in the outdoors, which naturally carried into his worklife. He took pride in the 42 years he dedicated to Richland County Recreation Commission, working in grounds maintenance. He enjoyed the wonderful people that helped shape his career and the friends he made along the way. He was always surrounded by love from his family. He was a protective and reliable son and brother. Buddy absolutely loved being a father, he sacrificed a great deal being a single father and made sure to devote all his time in building the perfect family. Nothing meant more to him than being a grandfather. Blessed with four grandsons, from 2022, Buddy was truly on cloud nine. He made sure to pass down his wisdom, skills in fishing, stories, and jokes.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Linda Shannon; father, Paul Rochester Jr; and his sisters, Susan Rentz (Ed) and Heather Mayfield. He is survived by his daughter, McKenzie Scott (Jacob); his grandchildren, Paul, Bo, Nash, and soon to arrive Judd; his sisters Delores Silva, Becky Fulk, and Tammy Myers (Micheal), along with nieces, nephews, and many extended family members and friends that will always cherish his memory.
It is hard to put into words how special of a man Buddy was. A very kindhearted and selfless person that never hesitated to help others. To everyone who knew him, knew he was a headstrong man who made it a point to continue to move forward no matter what. So, in honoring his wishes, no formal services will be held. Buddy believed in continuing forward and would want for those who love him to carry on, remembering him with strength and happiness rather than sorrow.
The family would like to thank the team at Trellis Supportive Care for the kindness, dignity, and care they showed Buddy and his family. In lieu of flowers, the family does ask for donations to be made to Trellis Supportive Care (Winston Salem) in his honor.
Buddy’s favorite quote:
“Today is the first day of the rest of your life.”
Great co-worker that was always willing to help others.
Rest in Peace, Buddy!
I worked with Buddy for over 30 years and he was a kind and pleasant coworker.
My prayer is God grant the family and friends, peace, comfort and strength during this time of bereavement.
Buddy … Rest in Peace.🙏🏿
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Buddy. RIP✝️ prayers for the family..
RIP my sweet stepson. You were always there for your sisters when they needed you. You were a lifesaver for me when your dad was unable to be there. My loving thoughts and prayers to the family. You will be missed daily.
Keeping you close in our warmest thoughts as you navigate this difficult time and praying for hope and healing. We will never forget Buddy’s warm smile. He had such a positive impact on everyone here at RCRC. He will be missed. Please accept our deepest condolences from Richland County Recreation Commission.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Wishing you peace and comfort in the days ahead during this difficult time. It was a pleasure working with Buddy at RCRC. He was such a soft-spoken man, and he would often speak about the love for his daughter & grandchildren. Rest in Peace Buddy.
Buddy was always a pleasure to work with! He will definitely be missed.
All I had to do was ask Buddy was always there. May God continue to bless and keep you as you go through your trial time, Keep the faith knowing that God is always there for you, Praying for the family, God Bless.
Buddy was not only a co-worker but a really great friend of mine, the type of guy that never met a stranger and always found the positive in any situation. Not only did Buddy help me throughout my years here with RCRC and many others but also gave me advice on life! He had a positive impact on anyone he met. I’m going to miss our conversations about fishing and hunting over the seasons. Prayers for the family, he will be missed!