Paul Carl Lagatore, 63, of Irmo, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023. Born on July 4, 1960, he was the son of Thomas Peter Lagatore, Sr. and Marion Joyce Lagatore. Paul is survived by his partner, Carlton Turner.

In January, 1991, Paul opened Columbia's Ballroom Company. Paul began his ballroom career at the age of 19 under the guidance of Sal Marino at Fred Astaire's of Columbia and received his considerable training from, among others, national theater arts caption and former national dance director for the Fred Astaire dance schools, Pete Taylor; international ballet champion, as well as ballroom coach and adjudicator, Sarwart Kaluby; three time undefeated American style ballroom champions, Lee and Peggy Santos; and five time national rhythm caption, Susie Thompson.

Paul loved gardening and his chocolate lab, Luke. He was a devoted son that took care of his mother everyday and they built Columbia's Ballroom Company together.

The visitation for Mr. Lagatore will be held from 3 o'clock to 7 o'clock on Monday, July 24, 2023 at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Extension, Columbia, SC 29223. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the Lagatore family.