Ellis Caswell Pitman

Ellis Caswell Pitman, age 86, husband of Frankie Pitman, and a resident of Columbia, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM with visitation from 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM at First Family Church in Columbia.

Born on July 27, 1939, in Heath Springs, South Carolina, Ellis was the son of the late Otis Pitman and the late Elizabeth “Lib” Robinson Pitman. He graduated from Heath Springs High School in 1957 and proudly served in the United States Navy. In October of 1959, he married the love of his life, Sue “Frankie” Franks. Ellis later earned his bachelor’s degree from California Baptist College and his master’s degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary.

From a young age, Ellis felt a clear call to ministry. He spent his life faithfully serving as both pastor and missionary, traveling across the world to share the Gospel. He resided in southern California for more than 60 years and especially loved walking along the beach with family and reflecting on the beauty of the coast. A mentor to many, especially young pastors, Ellis lived out his faith with humility, compassion, and steadfast devotion. To his children, he was a strong and loving example of integrity and service. He loved people deeply, enjoyed good food, cherished reading, and was an avid Clemson football fan. Ellis was a devoted member of Connection Church, where he served as an elder and found great joy in his church family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Kevin (Susanne) Pitman, daughter, Kim Matar, sister, Carolyn Johnson, grandchildren, Sarah Pitman, Joshua (Jenna) Pitman, Noah Pitman, great grandson, Fletcher Pitman, and several nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son in law, Rick Matar, brother, Arnold Louis Pitman, sister-in-law, Yancy Seago Pitman, and brother-in-law, Cecil N. Johnson.