Ellen Harrington Weisiger

A native of Kingstree, SC, born on March 17, 1934, Ellen was the daughter of the late Eva Mae Baker Harrington and Elmore Hay Harrington. She attended Queens College and pursued a career in banking in Charleston, SC and Charlotte, NC. As a resident of Salisbury, NC, she gave birth to her two children and developed as an avid player of golf and bridge. In 1971, Ellen returned to Charlotte. She was most recently a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church.

Ellen lived a colorful life, often using colorful language. A world traveler with an indomitable, independent and inquisitive spirit, she had a passion to know and to do, and a particular interest in psychology. A lifelong learner, Ellen honed her craft as a writer later in life, becoming a member of the North Carolina Poetry Society and publishing multiple poems. Those artistic inclinations guided her needlepoint, crochet and other art-making: she created such cherished family treasures as Christmas ornaments and a life-sized stuffed companion “Maude” who delighted her grandchildren. Ellen loved artistic expression and the beauty of the written word, both in what she sought out and what she created. She felt most at home in the North Carolina mountains, drawn to their grace and majesty.

Ellen lived life on her own terms. Courageous and resilient, she possessed a sassy wit, adept at finding humor in most situations. Of all her individual accomplishments, she was most proud of quitting smoking in 1982 after having smoked for over 30 years. Raised as a Presbyterian, Ellen in her 50's began a quest to deepen her Christian faith and was confirmed as an Episcopalian. She enjoyed Kanuga, where both the mountain setting and the time to write and reflect suited her. However much she traveled, she was happiest at home.

Mrs. Weisiger is survived by her beloved son, Edward I. Weisiger, Jr. and his wife, Betsy Fleming, of Charlotte; three grandchildren: Amanda Weisiger Cornelson and her husband Shaw of Charlotte, Marshall Weisiger of New York, NY, Grace Weisiger of Austin, TX.; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Mrs. Weisiger was predeceased by her daughter, Leslie M. Weisiger; her sister, Louise H. Smith; and her brothers, E. Hay Harrington, Jr. and Edward B. Harrington.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful staff at Southminster. Their loving care, compassionate concern, and helping hands were a Godsend, especially in the last days of her life.

A private Memorial Service has been scheduled. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 24 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at home, 200 Colville Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Southminster; Charlotte Friends of Jung; or the charity of one’s choice.