Nicholas Ralph Gross Jr.

Nicholas Ralph Gross, 81, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on May 24, 2026. Born in Whiteville, North Carolina, Nick lived a life defined by service, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family.

Nick proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era as a Linguistic Specialist - a testament to his sharp mind and commitment to duty. After his service, he built a career devoted to his community, spending 30 years as an independent pharmacist in Camden, South Carolina, where he became a trusted and familiar face to generations of patients.

Those who knew Nick knew a man who took genuine joy in the simple pleasures of life - fresh oysters, cheering on his Gamecocks, and most of all, being surrounded by the people he loved. His devotion to family was the cornerstone of everything he did.

Nick is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Brenda Smith Gross; his sons, Ryan Robert Gross (Shannon Gross) and Kyle Gross (Sarah Gross); his cherished granddaughters, Sutton and Cameron Gross. He was preceded in death by his father, Nicholas Gross, and his mother, Sally Gross.

Nick Gross was a pharmacist, a veteran, a husband, and a grandfather - but to those lucky enough to call him theirs, he was simply irreplaceable.

The memorial service to honor Mr. Gross' life will be held at 1:30PM on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Shives Funeral Home, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext. Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the funeral home, beginning at 12:30 until 1:30PM. The committal will follow the service at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family and will announce further plans.