Vivian Wingard Washington was born on February 6, 1933, in Columbia, South Carolina She was the daughter of the late Booker T. and Mable Collins Wingard, and the widow of Frank B. Washington, her beloved partner for 71 years. She departed this life on July 9, 2024.
She attended the public schools of Columbia, South Carolina, graduating from Booker T. Washington High School, where she served as head majorette of the marching band. She furthered her education with a Bachelor of Science degree from Allen University in 1959 and additional course work toward her Master’s degree at the University of South Carolina. Vivian was a first-grade teacher in Richland District One public schools for twenty-five years serving the children of Carver Elementary and Brennan Elementary.
Vivian was an active volunteer and believed in supporting her community through service organizations. She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, The Links, Inc., The Moles, and The Smart Set. Vivian was the coordinator for many service programs over the years including implementing the “Just Say No To Drugs” program at E.E. Taylor school in the 1990’s. Vivian was also an avid bridge player participating in many bridge clubs over the years. Vivian was one of a kind. She was generous, funny, loving, feisty, outgoing, sassy and kind. Her vibrant personality has left a mark on us all.
Vivian Wingard Washington was predeceased by her beloved siblings, Helen Carree, Edward Collins, Book Russell, and Mildred Johnson. She leaves to mourn her passing her family that was the center of her life; son, Dr. Kent W. Washington, of Columbia, SC; two daughters, Dr. Carla D. Washington, of Rockville, MD and Robin (Dr. Thomas) Major, of Irmo, SC; three grandsons, Dr. Kent T. Washington (Dr Varsha Kapoor), Andrew Major, and Evan Major; a great-granddaughter, Kendall Victoria Washington; and a “coming soon” great-grandson; nieces and nephews, Debra Campbell, Sonya Renee Carree, Kevin Carree, Kim Brown, Jeff Carree, Martin Carree, Sharon Hodges; great nieces, great nephews, and other loving relatives and caring friends, all of whom will miss her dearly.
