Patrick J. Fuller's Obituary
Patrick (Pat) Joseph Fuller passed away at the age of 85 surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, May 30, 2026 in Columbia, South Carolina. Pat was born on May 28, 1941 in Cleveland, Ohio. He had three siblings, Paul, Eileen and Elaine. He met the love of his life, Judy Cook, in sixth grade after moving to Miami, Florida. Judy agreed to go on a date with him because he “wouldn’t shut up about it.” Pat’s persistence paid off, and he married Judy in 1963.
Pat and Judy planted roots from a young age. He helped to raise and mentor Judy’s younger siblings. They formed close relationships with other couples that turned into lifelong friendships. Their two sons, Tom and Bobby, were Pat’s pride and joy. He loved being their father and considered their success the accomplishment of his life.
Pat attended Columbus High School. He wasn’t exactly a model student, and the nuns told him “Pat, if you don’t shape up, you’re going to work in a gas station when you grow up.” Well…they were right. He met his business partner, Tony Rebustillo, and they invested in the Shell franchise and grew their business over the years.
In the mornings, Pat would take his coffee outside with his customers and shoot the breeze, becoming a beloved staple at the neighborhood Shells. Early in Pat’s career, he was chosen to star in a national commercial to embody the Shell brand – his good looks caught the eye of producers, who flew him out to LA to wine and dine him.
Those who love Pat will remember him for his quick wit and unparalleled sense of humor. When his jokes veered into dangerous territory, his grandchildren would put him “on the clock” – which meant he had to wait some time before cracking the next one. His love for a good joke was only eclipsed by his love of being a grandfather. He obsessed over finding “APP” - a perfect present - for his grandchildren and always had the best snacks ready for when they came to visit.
Pat lived life to its maximum capacity, with a zest for other people, experiences and great love and admiration for his family. He commanded the attention of a room, often acting as the center of gravity for any lively conversation. He could be a lovable troublemaker at times – as all the best people are. Bobby recalls a certain New Year’s Eve when Pat drank a bit too much and decided to go skinny dipping in the pool.
His house in Miami was the hot spot for holidays and Thanksgiving in particular, with a rotating cast of characters of close family and friends. Later in life, Pat and Judy moved to Chapin, South Carolina, which he called “Disneyland” for the close network of friends and neighbors they accumulated.
Pat is survived by his wife Judy; his brother Paul; his sons Tom and Bobby (Kristen); and his four grandchildren, Bradley, Savanna, Lauren and Jake.
Those who wish to honor Patrick's memory are invited to plant a tree in their name or donate to Columbus High School.
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