Margaret Smedes Rose

AIKEN, SC - Margaret Smedes Rose, 71, passed away on November 16, 2025.

A native of Greenville, SC, Margaret was a daughter of the late Harvey McKoy Rose and Lydia Leitner Rose and grew up with her two sisters. They rode horses, fished, and played in the neighborhood until the streetlights came on, creating a close-knit bond.

Margaret’s love of horses resulted in her obtaining her jockey license and racing in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Aiken, where she eventually settled. In addition to her equestrian pursuits, she became an accountant for several Aiken businesses, including the former Up Your Alley and Olive Oil restaurants, and many individuals who became cherished friends.

Margaret was passionate about history and was proud of her membership in the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her other interests included quail hunting, bird dogs, walking in the natural world, and vintage Jaguar automobiles.

Survivors include her sisters, Lydia Rose and Susan Rose Scovil, her nephew, Chuck Herrick, and her nieces, Sloan Kennedy, Smedes Scovil, and Elizabeth Scovil.

Graveside services will be conducted on Tuesday, November 25th, at 3:30 PM in Bethany Cemetery, 238 Hampton Ave., NW. The family will greet friends at the cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials made in Margaret's name may be directed to the Aiken County Historical Museum, 433 Newberry St., SE, Aiken, SC 29801, or to a charity of your choice. 

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801