Dr. Edward Russell Van De Grift, III, 87, of Columbia, died on Monday, December 16, 2024. Born August 13, 1937, in Columbia, he was a son of the late Dr. Edward Russell Van De Grift, Jr. and Rosalind Maxwell Van De Grift.

Dr. Van De Grift was a third-generation veterinarian who grew up and spent the greater part of his life in Columbia. He was the owner of Van De Grift Veterinary Clinic, a full-service veterinary practice serving companion and exotic pets. Dr. Van De Grift was also the first veterinarian at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. He was an expert and authority on exotic animal diseases, having several articles and case studies published. Dr. Van De Grift received his formal education as a student at the University of Nova Scotia, University of South Carolina, Clemson University, and the University of Georgia (DVM 1967). He attributed his success to the influence of his father who stressed honesty, integrity, and love for all animals. Dr. Van De Grift also served his country as a US Army veteran.

Dr. Van De Grift was a member of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, as well as many veterinary associations locally and nationally. He was a staunch supporter of the Animal Protection League, Save Our Strays, and Pets, Inc. Dr. Van De Grift himself placed more than 20,000 stray animals from his clinic alone. He enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, cooking, and never saw a gadget he didn't like.

Survivors include his wife Brenda Bell Van De Grift; son, Edward R. Van De Grift, IV of Cayce, and grandson Justin Todd. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a wife, Joan Robison Van De Grift, and a daughter, Kimberly Jean Van De Grift.

The memorial service for Dr. Van De Grift will be held at 5 o'clock, Monday, December 23rd, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext, Columbia, SC. The family will greet guests at the funeral home following the service.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.