Patricia “Patsy” Kimbrough Tanner

Born on April 2, 1951, Patsy was the daughter of the late Edward Shields Kimbrough and the late Elizabeth Redmond Kimbrough. She was preceded in death by her loving sister, Donna Walker. She graduated from Winyah High School in Georgetown, South Carolina, in 1969 and went on to earn her degree from the University of South Carolina.

On December 31, 1972, Patsy married the love of her life, Sig, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 54 years. Together, they built their forever home in 1979, where they raised their two daughters and created a lifetime of cherished memories.

Patsy dedicated 40 years to the service of the University of South Carolina, including the last 39 at the Honors College. She was the heart and soul of the Honors College—far more than a business manager. From its founding in 1977, she served as a steady and trusted foundation through four deans, offering wisdom, continuity, and care to all who walked through its doors.

Outside of her professional life, Patsy found joy in the simple pleasures that made life rich. She was an avid tennis player, competing with the Rockbridge Club Women’s 3.5 team. She loved cheering on the Gamecocks, hosting family tailgates, and relaxing on the beach while listening to beach music. Her perfect afternoon often included a Malibu with lemonade and a handful of Planters salted peanuts.

A devoted Catholic, Patsy was a longtime and faithful member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, where her faith and community were central to her life.

Above all, Patsy was a devoted wife, a loving mother to her daughters Shannon Bozard (Jay) and Ashley Foster-Alphin (Ryan), and a proud and adoring “Nena” to her four grandchildren—Tanner, Hampton, Walker, and Taylor. She is also survived by her brothers, Ed Kimbrough (Debbie) and Billy Kimbrough (Melissa). Her warmth, strength, and unwavering love will live on in each of them.

Patsy will be remembered for her kindness, her steady presence, her joyful spirit, and the deep love she had for her family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and a life beautifully lived.

Funeral service will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church located at 3600 Devine Street, Columbia, SC on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends at The Rockbridge Club located at 4135 Rockbridge Road, Columbia, SC directly following the service.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to CurePSP (progressive supranuclear palsy) at https://www.psp.org/