Jerome Christopher Riols

Jerome C. Riols passed away at his home in Ridgeville, SC. on March 2nd 2023. He was born in Charleston on April 15, 1946 the Son of Robert and Eleanor Riols and is survived by his sisters Yvonne Riols Caraviello (Charlie) and Mary Florence Ganis (Roger). Jerome is also survived by Lisa Gossett, his partner in life and better half of over 30 years.  In addition to his parents Jerome was also predeceased by his sister Andrea Riols Crite and brother Robert Riols.  

As a  young boy Jerome attended Cathedral Grammar school and spent his days playing sports and making lifelong friends with kids from the projects as well as those from south of Broad. He left them all laughing.  He graduated from Bishop England High School where he majored in flirting with girls and attempting to get a laugh out of the nuns without getting a demerit.  

Jerome was also a proud member of the 1963 BEHS State Championship Basketball team.  After graduating in 1964 he enrolled at the Baptist College (now Charleston Southern University) and graduated in 1968. He was known to say that he “matriculated at BCLA …. Baptist College at Ladson Approximately”.  Jerome was the owner of “Breakers”, a popular Market street eatery and nightspot frequented by Charleston’s after hours “night people”.  He was also managing partner of Charleston Seafood on James Island.

 Jerome also served his country as a member of the Army National Guard, was a member of the Ark Lounge, and a member in good standing of the Hampton Park Playground Alumni Association. Jerome enjoyed traveling, especially his trips with friends to Costa Rica.  For the past few years Jerome has been fighting Leukemia and more recently memory issues but he never lost his sense of humor.  He had a list of 15 to 20 people who he called weekly to tell jokes (sometimes more than once) and to catch up with friends and families.  He leaves a large group of older Charlestonians to mourn his loss with a smile. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.