Judith Ellington

In Loving Memory

Judith Elizabeth Knight Ellington, age 82, of Columbia, SC, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, surrounded by her family.  She was born in Greenville, SC on January 29, 1943, to the late Grange C. and Elizabeth Eubanks Knight. Judy grew up in Lyman, SC and was a graduate of James F. Byrnes High School.  She retired after working for 30 years at the University of South Carolina. Judy spent many years cheering on her beloved Gamecocks from the lower East stands of Williams Brice Stadium and enjoyed tailgating with her friends and family before and after each home game.  She also loved the beach, spending much time at Edisto, Pawleys Island and North Myrtle during her life. Judy’s family was at the center of her life.  Affectionately know as “Nana,” she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Grange Edward Knight; niece, Elizabeth Ann “Beth” (Knight) Nimmons; and sister-in-law, Peggy Knight.  Survivors include her brother, Dale Knight; daughter and only child, Dana Elizabeth Ellington; grandchildren, Adam Glenn Oxendine (Ashley), Cody Michael Kopacz (Heather), Elizabeth “Grace” Cardinale (Anthony); great-grandchildren, Elizabeth “McKenzie” Oxendine, Sophia Marie Cardinale, and Baby Kopacz coming in April, 2026; sister-in-law, Brenda Knight; niece, Tammy Cram (Scott); nephew, G Edward “Eddie” Knight (Kim); great nieces, Brooke Knight and Amber Knight; as well as several cousins and other extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her name to the American Diabetes Association, or the American Heart Association.

A memorial service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery & Gardens once arrangements are complete.  Thompsons Funeral Home, Lexington, is in charge.