James Gilbert Mintz, Jr.

James Gilbert Mintz, Jr., 75, of Columbia, SC, passed away on May 21, 2024, surrounded by family. He was born in Rock Hill, SC on August 12, 1948 to Dorothy and James G. Mintz, Sr. He grew up in Rock Hill. Although he moved around South Carolina over the years for various business ventures, he settled in Columbia, SC in recent years to be closer to family.

He graduated from Rock Hill High School. He served in the United States Army in Vietnam. He was a decorated Vietnam Veteran in the Ninth Infantry Division. He graduated from the University of South Carolina and attended graduate school at the University of Georgia. He was owner/operator of Computerland franchises throughout North and South Carolina for many years and then continued his career as a self-employed entrepreneur in the computer programming industry.

He had a lifelong love for aviation, first becoming a pilot at the age of 16. He was type-rated as an airline transport pilot. He also made over 2000 jumps as a sport parachutist.

He was a devoted and loving father and grandfather. He is survived by his children, Courtney Hillen (Carter), Tyler Mintz, and Meredith Sammons (John). His grandchildren, Conner Hillen, Sara Hillen, Ada Hillen, Scott Sammons, and Ellen Sammons who affectionately knew him as “Jimpa”.

A celebration of life will be held with the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of James “Jim” Mintz to Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University for the purpose of the Head and Neck Cancer Fund at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Development Office, 1762 Clifton Road, Suite 2400, Atlanta, GA 30322.