Elizabeth "Liz" Farmer Draffin, 76, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 29, 2022 surrounded in love by her devoted husband and family.

Born May 31, 1945, in Anderson, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Louis Hunter and Gladys Long Farmer.  She graduated from Anderson High School in 1963 and the University of South Carolina in 1967 with a Bachelor's Degree in English and a minor in Secondary Education. She proudly served as secretary of the USC senior class and was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Liz went on to teach and substitute for many years. Her students recall songs she taught them in order to remember the presidents or books of the Bible. Liz loved literature, writing, and she was the proud editor- in- chief of the "Lizzyville News," a self-published newspaper.

Liz met her much loved husband, Steve, while on a cruise just outside of Charleston. They married on June 28, 1969. Above all else, Liz cherished her family. Liz's life was well known for its devotion to family and friends, always opening her home and her heart to everyone. Liz adored being a mom and treasured being "De De" to her 8 grandkids. Her friends were immense blessings in her life, and Liz was a fiercely loyal, generous, and caring friend herself. Liz never met a stranger—her warmth was palpable; her wit was sharp; her stories were hysterical; and you always left her feeling better.

Liz was a very active member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, where she worked with Brownies, served youth suppers, taught Sunday School, was a mentor to youth, decorated the church at Christmas, was very involved in Circle Three, and participated in outreach initiatives, a favorite being the foot-washing ministry. Liz intentionally sought out opportunities to mentor underprivileged youth in the Columbia area. In short, Liz put others before herself. Liz was an avid reader, loved playing tennis, was a member and served as president of the Bookmark Book Club; was a charter member of Gardens Etc., also serving as President; and faithfully participated in Bible Study Fellowship. She was a member of the South Carolina Debutante Ball, The Craft Club, along with other social and civic memberships.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Louis Hunter Farmer, Jr. and Remer Waguespack. Liz is survived by her husband of 53 years, Stephen Thompson Draffin; children, Stephen Draffin, Jr. (Katherine) of Columbia, Kathleen Thompson (Brad) of Columbia; and Jenny Smith (Kevin) of Florence.  She is also survived by her 8 precious grandchildren, Walker Draffin, Ellie Draffin, Ann Nelson Draffin, Elizabeth Thompson, Ford Thompson, John Thompson, Wesley Smith, and Tucker Smith.

A memorial service for Liz will be held at 3 pm on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC.  Friends and family are invited for a visitation in Thompson Hall immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Eastminster Church Outreach Ministry.

Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com.