Rodney L. Grantham

Rodney L. Grantham, 54, of Lexington, SC, passed away June 13, 2026, after a brief illness. Rodney was born December 1, 1971, in Charlotte, NC. He attended South Aiken High School in Aiken, SC and attended Lander University where he majored in Language, Latin American Literature and History while minoring in Psychology and went on to earn a master’s of teaching degree. He taught Spanish at Saluda High School from 1998 through 2003 before moving to Lexington. He began his career at Spring Valley High School in 2003 where he was a beloved teacher. Rodney was always willing to help when any teacher or student asked. He was a class sponsor for student council, being awarded an Apple Award as well as being inducted to the much coveted Order of Thor. Spirit dress days were his favorites throughout his years there. He also sponsored the International Club, planning several international festivals which were wildly successful in the Spring Valley community. One of Rodney’s proudest accomplishments was helping organize the Columbia to Colombia exchange program with Con Canaverales International School, where students and teachers from both schools exchanged places for 9 weeks. Overall, Rodney was best at cultivating relationships with his students and making a lasting difference in their lives.

Rodney was an authentic soul. Once you were his friend, you were always his friend. He poured his life into teaching students about Hispanic language and culture, loving his friends, and helping others. Rodney's interests centered around science fiction and fantasy genres like Game of Thrones and Dr. Who. He loved to travel and meet new people. His cat Sansa was special to him, and he spoiled her rotten. What made Rodney so special was how he treated everyone with respect.

Rodney is predeceased by his brother Tim Grantham. He is survived by his parents Holt and Faye Grantham of Aiken, SC, his brother Daryl (Vicki) of Lenoir City, TN, his nephews Eric Curtis (Kristina), Connor Grantham, and Christien Grantham, his niece Lexi Grantham, and one grand niece, Bailee. He also leaves behind special friends Luis and Ivan Perez Polanco and many others who were lucky enough to call him Uncle Rodney.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Shives Funeral Home at 7600 Trenholm Rd, Columbia, SC, Friday, June 19, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM followed by a service at 12:00 PM. Please wear bright colors or Spring Valley shirts. The service will be followed by a graveside burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Langley, SC at 3:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Rodney’s memory to the Spring Valley Education Foundation or to a local pet rescue.