Sheldon Moseley Girardeau Sr., 88, of Walterboro, passed away on November 24, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Joan (Smith) Girardeau.

Sheldon was born on January 21, 1934 and grew up in Barnwell, South Carolina, graduating from Barnwell High School in 1952. A multi-sport star, Sheldon then enrolled at the University of South Carolina as a member of the football team. He would later graduate from Presbyterian College.

He married his wife of 66 years, Joan (Smith) Girardeau on June 9, 1956, and they would eventually make their home in Walterboro, where Sheldon owned and operated a successful real estate business, Girardeau Realty, for decades. He is survived by three children, Gerry Girardeau (Anabel), Vickie Culpepper (Eric), and Sheldon Girardeau, Jr., as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, upon all of whom he doted. He leaves behind his brother Ted Girardeau (Bet), and his brother-in-law, Bill Smith.

He was a pillar of the Walterboro business community during his successful career, and was involved with many civic organizations and causes. He was a long-time member of Bethel Presbyterian Church, serving in many roles including the session.

Apart from spending time with his family, Sheldon's favorite pastime was attending USC athletic events to cheer on his beloved gamecocks. He traveled to countless football, basketball and baseball games all over the country, and walked into each expecting a victory. Summers usually meant trips with the family to Edisto Beach, where countless memories were made over many weeks in the sun and water.

He was the center of any room into which he walked, and had an uncanny ability to put anyone he came across at ease. Everyone lucky enough to know him can recall at least one of his stories that would keep you entertained and lighten any mood. He will be missed by many, but also celebrated for a truly well lived life.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday morning, November 30, 2022 at 11:00 at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Walterboro.  The family will receive friends during a time of visitation beginning at 10:00 in the church fellowship hall.   Committal services will be conducted at 2:00 that afternoon from the graveside at the Church of the Holy Apostles Cemetery, 9457 Patterson Street, Barnwell, SC 29812. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethel Presbyterian Church, 403 Church Street, Walterboro, SC  29488.  Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro is in charge of arrangements.