Elizabeth "Liz" Gay Arrants Barton

Elizabeth “Liz” Gay Arrants Barton, 68, of Columbia, SC, passed into eternity on Sunday, June 15, 2025. She was born on October 16, 1956, in Augusta, GA, to the late Lillian Kirby Arrants and Willard DuBose “Dee” Arrants who were both originally from Lynchburg, SC. Liz leaves behind her life partner and companion of the last 25 years, Jeff Barton; aunt, Jean Kirby Plowden; and many extended family members and caring friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Monday July 21, 2025 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church located at 115 W Church St, Bishopville, SC 29010. Following the service, a brief graveside service to take place at Historic Lynchburg Presbyterian Church and Cemetery located at 564 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, SC 29080. Services will be officiated by the Reverend Irvin Plowden, Jr. of Rock Hill, SC, a first cousin of Liz.

After graduating from Lexington High School, Liz graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1980. Following graduation, Liz was employed at Nationwide Insurance, Owens Steel and SC Department of Corrections in the Food Service and Training Academy Division to name a few. Due to her height and beauty, Liz also modeled briefly. She enjoyed volunteering at the Trinity Episcopal Church bazaars in downtown Columbia. Over the years she helped her parents manage properties in the area. As her parents aged, Liz and Jeff were instrumental in their caregiving.

Growing up in what at the time was rural Lexington County, Liz developed a love for animals of all kinds, especially horses, dogs and cats. This passion brought many rescue animals into her life. She had a fondness for the Shar-Pei dog breed and cared for several of them who had special needs with gentle, understanding kindness.

Liz will always be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She cherished her family and experienced immense joy spending time with them during the holidays and for other gatherings. She especially enjoyed the bountiful buffet spreads that were the hallmark of those occasions. Her hosts always made sure to send her home with extra portions that allowed her to feel their loving embrace for days after she returned home. Liz had a very special relationship with her Aunt Nelle and Uncle Blain Player. She often spoke fondly of the time spent with them at their Lee County farm.

In recognition of Liz’s devotion to her numerous pets throughout her lifetime, or “fur babies” as she called them, memorial gifts may be made to PETSinc of West Columbia, SC at P.O. Box 6394 West Columbia, SC 29169 or via website: https://petsinc.org/contact/