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TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF J. HAGOOD ELLISON, JR., OF COLUMBIA, TO CELEBRATE HIS LIFE, AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are deeply saddened by the passing of J. Hagood Ellison, Jr., a lifelong resident of Columbia, on July 20, 2020, at the age of seventy; and
Whereas, born March 26, 1950, to Mr. and Mrs. James H. Ellison, Hagood graduated from Christ School in Arden, North Carolina, before earning his bachelor's degree in political science from Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia. He served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army before receiving his master's degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina; and
Whereas, in 1976, Hagood joined the Columbia office of Merrill Lynch, where he would spend the next forty-four years as a trusted wealth manager. In 1983, he made the decision to establish one of the first wealth management teams in the country, partnering with his brother in-law, Bud Kibler. His team would become a model for the industry and would be recognized as one of the top teams across the nation; and
Whereas, Hagood and Bud devoted much of their time and energy to training and mentoring other advisors within the firm. Over the years, Ellison Kibler & Associates has grown to a team of more than thirty professionals who oversee approximately six billion dollars in client assets throughout the country. Hagood Ellison was regularly ranked as one of the Top Financial Advisors in the U.S. by Barron's, Forbes, Financial Times, and other publications. In 2002, he was honored with Merrill Lynch's Lifetime Community Achievement Award, and in April 2020, his team was named by Barron's as one of the Top 50 Private Wealth Advisor Teams in the country; and
Whereas, while grateful for these accolades, Hagood was always emphatic that every success belonged to the team. This passionate visionary had a curious mind that was always questioning and looking for new ways to innovate the business. Considered a pioneer in his industry, he was, to many, a legend; and
Whereas, Hagood Ellison was actively committed to serving the institutions and organizations that profoundly impacted him and his family. He served on the boards of trustees for Washington and Lee University, Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida, Knox School in St. James, New York, and Christ School. A proud Eagle Scout, he also served on the boards of Indian Waters Council (Boy Scouts of America), the Columbia Museum of Art, and the Center for Cancer Treatment and Research. Formerly, he had served as an adjunct professor for the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina; and
Whereas, in addition, he was a member of Forest Lake Club, the Palmetto Club, the University Club, Farmington Country Club, and various other social organizations, but Hagood loved nothing more than spending time with his family and friends. He cherished the time he spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, often at the beach or at home by the pool listening to his favorite oldies from the jukebox. He championed his children, encouraging them to achieve their best, whether through academics, personal endeavors, or athletics; and
Whereas, known for his larger-than-life personality, infectious humor, sharp wit, and devotion to his friends, Hagood was the ultimate connector, constantly bringing friends together throughout his broad network. He was a mentor to countless young people and a trusted confidant; and
Whereas, among those who have been greatly touched by his strength, his inspirational and positive attitude, his love of life and fun, and his strong faith and integrity are his wife of forty-two years, Eleanor "Cis" Kibler Ellison; and his three children, Eleanor "Zan" Ellison Hardin (Simms), Adger Gaillard Ellison, and Andrew Strubing Ellison (Lauren). He was affectionately known as "Goody" to his three grandchildren, Eleanor Keeney Hardin, Harry Simms Hardin V, and Hagood Herring Ellison. Also surviving are his brother-in-law, business partner of thirty-seven years, and best friend, E. Robertson "Bud" Kibler (Beth); sister-in-law Anna Belle Heyward Kibler; dear nieces and nephews, to whom he was "Uncle Moonta"; a sister; and a younger brother, Brian Furman Ellison (Brenda). Hagood was predeceased by his parents and by his brother-in-law, C. Marshall Kibler, Jr. He will be remembered as a beloved and respected South Carolina leader, one who will be greatly missed. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of J. Hagood Ellison, Jr., of Columbia, celebrate his life, and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Mrs. Eleanor "Cis" Kibler Ellison for the family.
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