Mrs. Judith Austin Chaplin

Judith Austin Chaplin, 85, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025. She was born on April 30, 1940, in Bluefield, West Virginia. A proud graduate of Limestone College, Judith began her career in Washington, D.C., where she worked for South Carolina Congressman Albert Watson in the U.S. House of Representatives. One of her fondest memories from that time was attending the White House Ball, where she met President John F. Kennedy while escorted by Senator Strom Thurmond. She later recounted this extraordinary evening in a piece published by The State newspaper titled “There During Camelot.” Judith went on to dedicate her life to education, serving as a gifted and caring elementary school teacher in Atlanta, Georgia, and later on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina. She touched countless young lives with her patience, humor, and passion for learning. A devoted member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Columbia, Judith especially enjoyed the fellowship of her Bible study group. She was also an avid reader and an active participant in her book club, where she formed lasting friendships and shared her love of literature. One of her favorite pastimes was spending time with her family at their beloved beach house on Pawley’s Island, a place filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories. She was predeceased by her husband, Alec H. Chaplin. Judith was a loving mother, grandmother, and sister, remembered for her gentle spirit, her wit, and the care she extended to everyone around her. She is survived by her sisters, Tempe Austin Edmunds and Dale Brogdon Lidikay; her son, Edmund Richmond; her daughter, Elizabeth Tuller McElveen (Louis); and her cherished grandchildren, Madeline Jordan, DuBose Tuller, Austin Tuller, and Grace Tuller. Judith’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy of love and kindness will continue through all who knew her. The memorial service for Mrs. Chaplin will be held at 11 o’clock on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road, Columbia, S.C., 29205. The family will receive friends at the home of her daughter, 3420 Heatherwood Road immediately following the service. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. Memorials may be made to Eastminster Presbyterian Church, https://eastminsterpres.org/give/eastminster-endowment/.

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Mrs. Judith Austin Chaplin

April 30, 1940 - September 18, 2025