Vicki Lynn Powell

COLUMBIA - Vicki Powell, loving daughter, sister, aunt, niece, friend and community advocate went to be with our Lord on Sunday, July 29, 2012. Her kind heart and bigger- than-life spirit will be truly missed by all who were blessed to know her.

Vicki was born in Columbia, S.C., on November 9, 1968. As a young child, she resided at the Midlands Center. In 1975, she met Barbara Savage, director of programs at United Cerebral Palsy, who invited Vicki to spend time with her young family. The family quickly grew attached, and Vicki went to live with the Savages as a permanent member of their family.

A graduate of Spring Valley High School, Vicki went on to become an outspoken, life-long advocate for people with disabilities. Among other roles, she served as chairperson for the South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council, as well as a committee member for the Council on Consumer Affairs, the South Carolina Disability Action Center, IMPACT of South Carolina, ARC of South Carolina, People on the Go and the Midlands Center Human Rights Committee. Additionally, through her acquaintance and friendship, she taught many people the meaning of acceptance and the importance of valuing all members of our community.

The faith and fellowship she received through church was an important part of her life. She was an active member of First Baptist Church for more than 20 years. Vicki was an avid South Carolina Gamecock fan, who regularly attended Gamecock sporting events. She also enjoyed listening to gospel music and social networking on her computer.

She is survived by her devoted foster family all now living in Dallas: parents Joe and Barbara Savage, brother Craig Savage and wife Lori and children, Carly, Emily, Raye and Declan; and sister, Shannon Couzens and her husband, Bryan and children, Cole and Jacob. Also missing her in her death is her loving extended foster family in Charlotte: Judy and Henry Higginbotham and their children, Beth Everson and Jay Higginbotham and their families. She also leaves behind a wonderful companion and attentive caregiver, Linda Ellisor of Columbia, as well as many adoring friends in the special needs community.

A funeral will be held to celebrate Vicki’s rich and full life at ten o’clock in the morning on Thursday, August 2, 2012 at First Baptist Church, 1306 Hampton St., Columbia, S.C. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Special Education Ministries at First Baptist Church at P.O. Box 1000, Columbia, S.C., 29202. Condolences and memories may be shared on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VickiPowellSavageMemorial