Walter (Buddy) Weaver Roth, III, 74, of Columbia, died at his residence on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born in Columbia, SC, on Sunday, April 30, 1950, he was the son of the late Walter Weaver Roth, Jr. and Mildred Blackburn Roth.

Buddy was a graduate of A.C. Flora High School and the University of South Carolina. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast, avid athlete and loved watching his Gamecocks play. He was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order and many of his closest friends today are his fraternity brothers.

He opened his own successful branch of Balfour, assisting countless students with state championship rings, caps, gowns and graduation supplies, and most importantly, staying close to the Gamecocks at his office on Blossom Street. He was never one to enjoy complacency. As his mother always told him, "Idle hands are the Devil's workshop." While his career kept him busy, he was a very involved father and later, grandfather. He became immersed in every sport they played, practicing with them at home, taking photos and videos, and putting together albums and framed mementos of their accomplishments. In his spare time, you could often find him enjoying the water on a boat or playing golf at Forest Lake Country Club. He was also a faithful member of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral and served regularly as a eucharistic minister.

Above all, Buddy's greatest joy came from his grandchildren. His involvement as a grandfather was unmatched and he was always willing and happy to spend quality time with them. From their earliest days, he was determined to teach them how to hit a golf ball, catch and throw a baseball, and ride their bikes. But perhaps just as importantly, he instilled in them his love for ice cream and doughnuts.

Buddy will be remembered for his positivity, unwavering loyalty, and deep commitment to family. He always showed love and understanding towards his loved ones, even in times of disagreement, knowing when to smile and keep the peace. He touched the lives of all who knew him, and his legacy of love and devotion will live on through those who carry his memory in their hearts.

Survivors include his wife, Sarah Walker Roth; sons, William Walker Roth (Anne Katherine Miller) and Edward Davis Roth; daughter, Carey Finley O'Quinn (Brian Patrick); grandchildren, Ellie, Walker and Annie Roth and Finley and JB Quinn; his sisters, Madelyn Roth Harvey (Clint) and Margaret Roth Witt (Andrew); and his brother-in-law, Jerry Byars; and sister-in-law, Elizabeth Walker Cate (William). In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Marilyn Byars; and sister-in-law, Anne Walker Milliken.

The service for Mr. Roth will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, March 7th, at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. A reception will follow in Satterlee Hall. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 1100 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29201.