George R. Vaiea (Dick) of Irmo, SC, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4th, at 3:11 PM.  

He was Born to the late Donna Jean and John G. Vaiea of Newark, Ohio on March 5th, 1950. Dick was the owner of DVA, a restaurant supply company based in Columbia, SC. Dick loved his work and took pride in building a respected, well-known business with the assistance of his brother, Mike, for over 30 years as brothers, partners and friends.  

Dick’s smile, his kind eyes and his willingness to listen and remember the things of your life, is what so many will remember about him and how it made one feel so important in his world. His kind and generous spirit also touched the lives of many and he enjoyed helping and blessing others through his hard work and good fortune. 

Dick is survived by his brothers: Mike (Phyllis) Vaiea of Lexington, SC., John S. Vaiea of Newark, OH; sisters: Debra Vaiea of Winston Salem, NC., and Suzanne (Steve) Shawn of Corpus Christi, TX.; two nephews; four nieces; one aunt: Nancy (Larry) Poston of Thornville, OH; good friend and assistant, Reco Thurmond of Columbia, SC, along with many cousins and extended family members. 

Dick’s presence will sadly be missed by his family, friends, staff, customers, vendors and DVA partners. His passing will leave a void that will never be replaced, however, those who knew him will cling tightly to the lifetime of memories, his loving spirit and the joy he brought to so many. 

The family asks that you respect their privacy as they navigate the sudden loss of their brother. 

A special message from his brother, Mike, “Rest in peace dear brother and know your legacy will continue through each of us and our lives you encouraged and made better by your time here.” 

A celebration of life will be held later for Dick. In lieu of flowers, you may send any donations to Columbia Chapter of the Federation of the Blind at: 

Columbia Chapter NFBS 

Attn: Columbia Chapter 

119 South Kilbourne Rd. 

Columbia, SC  29205 

M/F In Memory of George R. Vaiea 

Questions:  Contact David – Chapter President 803-447-7629