Clifford Dean Ellison

Clifford “Dean” Ellison, 95, passed away Saturday, September 26, 2026. If you knew Dean, you probably know he wouldn't have wanted a long, overly serious obituary. After all, he kept everyone guessing about what he might say or do next—and apparently saw no reason to let a little thing like turning 95 slow him down.

Dean was outgoing, funny, independent, and entirely himself. He lived life to the fullest, on his own terms, and even went to work on the day he died. Honestly, those who knew him probably aren’t surprised. Dean never sat around when there was somewhere to go, someone to talk to, or a story to tell.

Born in Oak Park, Illinois, on January 11, 1931, Dean was the youngest son of the late Clifford Lahr Ellison and Ruth Cornwell Ellison. He is survived by his daughter, Susan Ruth Ellison “Suzy” of Columbia, SC, and several nieces and nephews. Dean was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mildred Johnson Ellison; brother-in-law Julius Hiram Johnson “Uncle Buddy”; and brother Guy Ellison.

Dean loved people and, fortunately for everyone around him, people loved Dean right back. He especially looked forward to his Tuesday night dates with his dear friend Gary, Friday nights at the Mexican restaurant with the crew, and the treasured trips and holidays with his nephews David and John and other dear members of the Pitts family. There was never any guarantee what Dean would say during these outings, but there was usually a good chance somebody would be laughing.

Dean proudly served his country. He was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant Commander from the United States Navy on June 15, 1950, and later as a First Lieutenant from the United States Air Force Reserve on April 21, 1958. He graduated from DePauw University and spent 30 years traveling the Southeast as a salesman for Florsheim Shoes and managing a small chain of shoe stores in SC and NC.

After retirement, Mildred apparently decided retirement wasn't working out particularly well for Dean—or perhaps for her. She told him to find something to do. Dean took that assignment seriously and took over Gentleman’s Closet, his beloved men’s consignment store in Five Points. Gentleman’s Closet quickly became about much more than clothes. Dean was known for his seersucker suits, bow ties, and white shirts, but most of all, for being Dean. He could sell you a suit, tell you a story, make you laugh, and possibly leave you wondering exactly what had just happened—all in the same visit.

He worked at Gentleman’s Closet several days each week with his special daughter, Beth, and continued doing so until his death. For Dean, it was the perfect place to spend his time: surrounded by clothes he loved, customers he enjoyed, and people who appreciated his unmistakable personality.

Dean had a remarkable ability to make ordinary moments memorable. He never seemed particularly interested in doing things the conventional way, and life was undoubtedly more entertaining because of it. He was one of those people who could walk into a room and leave behind a story—and his family and friends will have plenty to tell. Dean lived 95 years, and he certainly made them count. He worked hard, served his country, loved deeply, dressed well, made people laugh, and kept everyone on their toes right up to the end. And if Dean had anything to say about it, he probably would have added one final comment to this obituary—although none of us can be certain what it would have been.

The visitation will be held from 6 until 8 o’clock Sunday, October 4th, at the Ellison residence, 21 Running Fox Road, Columbia, SC.

The memorial service will be held at 6 o’clock, Monday, October 5th, at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 605 Polo Rd, Columbia, SC.

Private burial will be held at a future date at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. David’s Episcopal Church, 605 Polo Road, Columbia, SC 29223.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.