Mr. Joseph Mitchell Epting

Joseph Mitchell Epting, lovingly known as “Mickey,” passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, on January 2, 1942, Mickey was a lifelong native of Columbia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Livingston Epting, and by his son-in-law, John Christopher Sullivan. He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Nancy Godwin Epting; their two children, Joe Epting (Kelly) and Kristin Epting Sullivan Burgess (Chad); his brother, James Livingston Epting, Jr.; and his beloved grandchildren, Katherine Epting Swearingen (Jesse), John Kenneth Epting, Benjamin Morgan Epting, Llewellyn Elizabeth Sullivan, and Phillip Christopher Sullivan. Mickey graduated from The Citadel in 1964 with a Bachelor of Arts and later earned his Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1969. Before entering law school, he proudly served in the United States Army. His distinguished legal career spanned decades in Columbia and Irmo, where he practiced as an attorney and served as Judge for the Town of Irmo and previously for the Town of Chapin. Those who appeared before him will remember his deep respect for the law and his desire for all to understand and honor the principles it represents. Faith was central to Mickey’s life. He was a member of Washington Street United Methodist Church and previously a longtime member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. Beyond his devotion to his faith community, he was deeply committed to service. He served on the Board of Directors for Lutheran Homes of South Carolina, was an active member of the Rotary Clubs of St. Andrew’s and Irmo, and gave generously of his time at the Soup Kitchen of Washington Street United Methodist, often arriving in the early morning hours to serve those in need. A Celebration of Life will be held at Washington Street United Methodist Church on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Mickey will be laid to rest with military honors during a private family burial at Fort Jackson National Cemetery. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, love of family, service to others, and his innate sense of fairness and respect toward all people. His presence was a constant in the lives of his children and grandchildren, whether cheering at sporting events, celebrating milestones, or offering guidance with wisdom and love. To know Mickey was to have a true friend. His warmth and kindness drew people in, and his loud, contagious laugh often heard from miles away brought joy to every gathering. It was a sound as unmistakable as it was uplifting, and it will echo in the hearts of all who knew him. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Barry Paul of Levine Cancer Institute in Charlotte, NC; Dr. Woody Coker of SCOA in Columbia; and the dedicated nurses and caregivers who so faithfully cared for him both in the hospital and at home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Camp Cole, 1571 Crossing Creek Road, Eastover, SC 29044.

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Mr. Joseph Mitchell Epting

January 2, 1942 - August 26, 2025